Welcome to Mali 😊

Quick Facts About Mali

Money and Finances

The official currency of Mali is West African CFA franc (XOF), which is divided into 100 centimes. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 francs, while banknotes are available in 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 francs.

ATM Network

ATM networks in Mali are limited and can be unreliable. They are mostly concentrated in major cities like Bamako. Travelers are advised to carry enough cash when traveling to rural areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Mali, and the use of Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX is limited to some upscale hotels and restaurants in major cities. Travelers are advised to carry enough cash to pay for their expenses.

Internet and Phones

Internet in Mali is relatively slow and unreliable, with average download speeds of around 2Mbps and upload speeds of 1Mbps. There is currently no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several telco companies operating in Mali, including Orange, Malitel, and Telecel. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively low, with basic plans starting at around 5,000 CFA francs ($9 USD) per month. There may be sim compatibility issues for those using non-Mali purchased SIM cards.

Dialling to Mali

To call Mali from another country, dial the international access code for your country, followed by Mali's country code, which is +223. To call within Mali, dial the desired area code followed by the local phone number.

Transport Around Mali

Air Travel

Mali has several major airports, including Bamako-Sénou International Airport in the capital city of Bamako, as well as airports in Gao, Timbuktu, and Kayes.

Train Travel

There is limited inter-city train service in Mali, with most train routes connecting Bamako to other parts of the country. A one-way ticket for the Bamako-Kayes route can cost around 15,000 XOF ($27 USD) and take approximately 12 hours to travel.

Metro / Local Trains

Mali does not have a metro system in any of its major cities.

Buses

Mali has an extensive bus network, with many routes connecting major cities and towns. A one-way ticket from Bamako to Mopti can cost around 8,000 XOF ($15 USD) and take approximately 8 hours to travel.

Rideshare

There are currently no popular rideshare companies operating in Mali.

Driving by Car

Driving in Mali can be challenging due to poorly maintained roads and limited street signs. The speed limit on major highways is typically 100 km/h (62 mph), and Mali drives on the right-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Mali, tipping is not expected but can be appreciated in tourist areas. When greeting someone, it is common to shake hands and ask about their well-being. Locals may also touch their chest with their right hand and then their forehead, a gesture of respect. Women may greet other women by embracing and kissing on the cheeks, while men may only shake hands. Conversations with strangers may be less direct and involve more formalities such as inquiring about family and health before getting into business matters.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health system in Mali suffers from limited resources and access to medical care, particularly in rural regions. Medical insurance is not commonly available and visitors should plan to cover medical expenses themselves. A visit to a doctor may cost approximately $40-60 USD.

COVID Situation

Mali has seen a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases, with just over 14,000 reported as of October 2021. However, the vaccination rate remains low and travelers should take precautions to avoid infection, including wearing masks in public and practicing social distancing.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common risk in Mali, particularly during the rainy season. Other risks include food poisoning, typhoid fever, and cholera, which can be contracted through contaminated food and water. Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and drink only bottled or purified water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption in Mali is legal but restricted. It is prohibited for Muslims to consume alcohol according to Islamic law. Non-Muslims can purchase alcohol in licensed bars and hotels.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Mali and can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are not generally accepted in Mali, and it is considered taboo in some regions. However, there are no laws against it.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Mali and can result in imprisonment. Same-sex relationships are not recognized in the country.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms ownership is strictly regulated in Mali, and obtaining a license is difficult. Possession of a firearm without a license is illegal and can result in imprisonment.