United States
Mali Travel and Destination Guide
PRE-DEPARTURE INFO
Over the last few months, the number of clashes between various armed groups and the Malian military has been on the rise, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries, sometimes affecting civilians too. In May, a group of armed Tuaregs attacked a Malian army post in Abeibara. Thirty people were killed and another 30 injured. Travellers should exercise extreme caution when visiting the country.
Travellers are also advised to avoid the regions bordering Mauritania, Algeria and Niger as well as north of Timbuktu, as they are the domain of desert bandits. Caution is also advised in the area bordering Côte d'Ivoire, due to ongoing instability in that country.
When to Go
The very best time to visit Mali is between November and January, before the heat hits in March and after the wet humid season. Trips down the Niger are also a good bet in November as the river is usually high enough for passenger boats to get through. By December and January boat trips may be more of a hop from one sandbank to another if not cancelled altogether. November, though, is also the high tourist season so if you prefer to sacrifice a bit of comfort for peace and quiet, you could go in December for the crossing of the cattle at Diafarabé. Mali's most famous cultural event is the Festival in the Desert, a musical extravaganza of the country's best musicians amid the sand dunes near Timbuktu which takes place in early January. In fact anytime from October through to February is a reasonable time to go, but trying to get around Mali in the hot season from March to May is strictly for masochists.
Visas Overview
Visas are required for all visitors. Visas are available at the border but it can take an age (and the odd bribe) to get one. Depending where you get your visa, the price can vary wildly.
Electricity
220V 50Hz
Electric Plug Details
European plug with two circular metal pins
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