Mali Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Mali. In some cases, holders of a pre-arranged visa approval document can obtain a visa upon arrival. Visitors are encouraged to contact their nearest Malian embassy or consulate to confirm their visa/entry requirements. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Mali. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Americans

US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

UK Nationals

British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

Canadians

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

Australians

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

South Africans

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

Irish Nationals

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

New Zealanders

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

Healthcare

All visitors to Mali are required to have a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. It is also recommended that precautions against meningitis (particularly if traveling between February and April), malaria and cholera be taken. Bottled water is available and food should be thoroughly cooked. Medical facilities are limited, especially outside of Bamako, and basic medicines might not be available. Travelers are advised to bring a personal supply of medicines with them. Comprehensive medical insurance is essential; serious medical problems will require air evacuation outside of the country.

Safety

All travel in Mali to the regions north, east and west of Timbuktu, as well as travel along the borders with Niger, Algeria and Mauritania should be avoided due to armed banditry and the risk of kidnapping. Increased incidents of armed banditry have been reported in the Sikasso region. The British government reports a high terrorism risk for westerners in the country, especially those attending festivals. Crime levels are generally low, but it is best not to show valuables in public.