Mali

There's an ongoing and very high threat of terrorist attacks throughout Mali, including the capital Bamako, which can result in serious injury and death. 

The security situation in northern Mali, Bamako and areas bordering Mauritania is dangerous and volatile. The security situation in southern Mali has further deteriorated. Several attacks in southern and central Mali show the worsening security environment.

If you're in Mali, consider leaving by commercial means if it's safe to do so.

Further attacks are very likely. Attacks can be random and occur in places foreigners visit, such as:

• areas frequented by security forces, including United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers
• airports, public transport and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels, and other sites frequented by foreigners
• hospitals
• places of worship
• mining operations
• Embassies and government buildings, including schools

If, despite our advice, you travel to Mali, stay alert to protect yourself from terrorism:

• get professional security advice
• use effective personal security measures
• be alert to possible threats in public places
• avoid all large gatherings, including festivals, large sporting events and any public demonstrations or protests
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for threats, curfews, and other restrictions
• take official warnings seriously
• follow advice from local authorities
• be ready to leave the country at short notice.

Have an exit plan ready if you must go to a place that is a possible target.

If an attack occurs, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping by groups such as Al Qaeda in the Maghreb (AQIM) and other regional Islamist groups is a very high risk across Mali.

Several active terrorist groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners. Criminal gangs kidnap people to receive financial rewards from terrorist groups.

The kidnapping risk of foreign nationals in southern Mali is increasing. Foreign nationals and foreign interests, including mining operations, may be targeted.

Possible targets include:

• foreign mining interests
• aid workers
• long-term residents of Mali
• foreign nationals

Several foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped in Mali.

Recent kidnappings of foreigners include:

• In January 2023, a World Health Organization (WHO) doctor was abducted from Menaka in northern Mali
• In May 2022, three Italians and a Togolese were kidnapped from the southeastern town of Sincina.
• In May 2019, two French tourists and their Beninese guide were kidnapped. The guide was killed, and the tourists were rescued as they were reportedly on their way to Mali.
• In December 2018, an Italian and Canadian national were kidnapped in Burkina Faso and were found alive by UN peacekeepers in northeast Mali in March 2020.
• In February 2017, a Colombian was kidnapped in southern Mali, approximately 300km from Bamako.
• In December 2016, a French aid worker was kidnapped in Gao, northern Mali.
• Between 2012 and 2017, several French, Swiss, and Algerian citizens were kidnapped in Mali. Some were killed.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian anti-terrorism financing laws.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Mali:

• read our information on kidnapping before you leave
• get professional security advice
• arrange personal security measures

A transitional government has been in place since August 2020, with presidential elections postponed to 2026. Monitor local media and follow updates and security advice from the US Embassy in Mali and the Canadian Embassy in Mali.

Avoid protests, marches, riots, or barricades, as these can escalate quickly into violence.

Expect a strong security presence, including:

• police patrols
• vehicle and personal security checks
• police security checks on restaurants and hotels

UN forces have been in Mali since 2013.

Despite a peace agreement between the Malian Government and rebels, clashes with rebels and terrorist attacks still happen in northern regions. The recent Military coup has created further destabilisation.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Mali, be aware that:

• the northern and central regions are highly volatile
• night-time checkpoints and roadblocks are common
• curfews can be set suddenly

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• keep your vehicle and personal ID documents with you
• approach security checkpoints slowly and follow instructions
• arrange personal security measures
• always have up-to-date travel documents
• avoid sensitive areas, such as government and military facilities
• Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations often occur in Bamako. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

The political and security situation could get worse suddenly.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Mali:

• avoid political rallies, protests, and large crowds
• have contingency plans and be ready to leave at short notice

If you get caught up in a protest, stay indoors and away from the windows. Leave the area as soon as it's safe.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Armed robbery, kidnapping and carjackings occur, particularly in the northern regions. 4WD vehicles are common targets.

Bandits are active in remote areas.

Petty crime

Pickpocketing and theft are common in urban areas.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Mali:

• pay attention to your safety and security
• keep vehicle windows and doors locked, even when moving
• don't visit banks or use ATMs alone
• use ATMs in banks, hotels, and secure buildings

Scams and fraud

Internet fraud is common and often starts in West African countries. People have lost money to internet scams.

Internet scams may present to you as romances, friendships, or business and employment opportunities. These scams usually start via internet dating sites or chat rooms.

Victims have also travelled to Mali or other West African countries to meet a friend or someone they intend to marry that they have met online or to get back money. They've been at risk of kidnapping, assault and robbery. Some victims have been killed.

Criminals might:

• ask you to send money so they can travel to Australia to meet you
• ask for details of a bank account overseas to transfer large amounts of money as a donation or for a percentage
• provide fake cashier cheques for urgent shipments of large quantities of goods
• ask for large fees for a fake government contract
• steal money from people they have invited to Africa for a business opportunity

To protect yourself from scams:

• be wary of online contact from people you don't know
• don't send money to anyone until you've thoroughly checked them

If you're the victim of a scam, get legal advice. Don't travel to Mali to get your money back or to get revenge. You could be in danger.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Flooding and severe weather

Flooding can occur during the rainy season from June to September.

Severe weather can affect your travel. Monitor local media for up-to-date information.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Mali and you're visiting an area affected by severe weather:

• confirm your plans with your tour operator or travel provider
• ask your tour operator if services have been affected

In the event of flooding and severe weather, follow the advice of local authorities.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll likely need a special insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Mali.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (HealthDirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Mali. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever (Department of Health and Aged Care) is widespread in Mali. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria, dengue (World Health Organization), and other insect-borne diseases also occur.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS

The HIV/AIDS (World Health Organization) infection rate is high.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the virus.

Lassa fever

Lassa fever (World Health Organization) may be a risk when you have contact with rodents or with food or household items contaminated with rodent droppings.

To protect yourself from disease:

• avoid contact with live or dead rodents, burrows or nests and their droppings
• ensure all foods are well-cooked and covered in rodent-proof containers
• keep your body, personal belongings, utensils and common contact surfaces (including door knobs and counters) clean
• avoid places where dust is raised, such as from sweeping and vacuuming rodent droppings

Get immediate medical help if you develop any symptoms of Lassa fever, including fever, weakness in your body or unexplained pain.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic, and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• cholera
• hepatitis
• meningitis
• tuberculosis
• COVID-19

Serious outbreaks can occur. If there is a serious outbreak of infectious disease, follow the advice of local authorities.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in freshwater
• Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical facilities in Bamako are limited. Facilities in rural areas are even more basic.

Local health services may have difficulty responding to outbreaks of infectious disease.

Medical expertise is lacking. Burns and mortuary facilities are limited.

Most medical staff only speak basic English.

You'll need to pay up-front for medical services.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs are severe. You could receive a heavy fine or a long jail sentence.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

The death penalty applies for serious offences, including:

• murder
• encouraging rebellion against the Government
• spying

It's illegal to photograph:

• military zones, assets and personnel
• transport facilities
• government buildings

Same-sex sexual activity isn't explicitly illegal in Mali. However, it may be 'contrary to accepted standards of behaviour', which is illegal.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

You'll need permission from the National Museum in Bamako to buy or remove archaeological objects from Mali.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Mali recognises dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular service we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

You may need to perform civil or military service in Mali if you're a dual national. Check with the nearest Embassy of Mali before you travel.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Dressing standards

Conservative standards of dress and behaviour apply in Mali.

Avoid revealing clothing and inappropriate displays of public affection. Take care not to offend.

Ramadan

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Mali. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visitor visas

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to Mali, you'll need to get a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy of Mali for details about visas, currency, customs, and quarantine rules.

Yellow fever vaccination

You must carry a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Mali. You may be asked to show it at the airport when you leave.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to travel to other countries after visiting Mali.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever (Department of Health and Aged Care).

More information:

• Yellow fever – Mali (World Health Organization)

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with X gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

LGBTI travellers 

The local currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF).

Declare all amounts over XOF25,000 (or equivalent) on arrival.

Exchange traveller's cheques at major banks.

ATM facilities are limited.

Some major hotels in Bamako accept credit cards.

Credit cards are rarely accepted outside Bamako. Make sure you have enough cash to meet your needs.

Local restrictions

The Australian High Commission in Accra has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in Mali. 

Landmines

Landmines and improvised explosive devices are found in the north and northeast of Mali.

Driving permit

To drive in Mali, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Terrorist attacks on convoys, crime, kidnapping, and poor conditions make road travel dangerous, particularly at night. Exercise extreme caution.

Driving conditions get worse in the rainy season from June to September.

To reduce your risks, get professional security advice before you leave.

Only travel by road if you have proper security measures in place.

Always wear a helmet when travelling by motorcycle.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Avoid taxis where possible due to poor driving and security threats. If you must travel by taxi, use registered taxis. It's best to arrange them through your hotel.

Public transport

Public transport is dangerous due to security threats. Avoid public transport.

Air travel

Flight schedules can change, and flights can be cancelled with little warning.

At Senou International Airport in Bamako, authorities may search your vehicle at a checkpoint. Make sure everyone in the vehicle has identification with them.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Mali, the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). Airlines may issue their own travel advice if, despite our advice, you travel to Mali. Check with your travel provider.

Check Mali's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 18.

Medical emergencies

Call 15 or go direct to the hospital.

Police

Call 17 or:

• 2023 9511
• 8000 1114
• 8000 1115
• 2022 1335
• 2023 9515

Or visit the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Mali.

The Canadian Embassy in Bamako gives consular assistance to Australians in Mali. This includes issuing provisional travel documents.

If the security situation in Mali deteriorates, the level of consular assistance the Canadian Embassy can give to Australians may be limited.

Canadian Embassy, Bamako

Koulikoro Street

Séméga Building

District II

Bamako, Mali

Phone: (+223 44) 98 04 50

Fax: (+223 44) 98 04 55

Email: bmakog@international.gc.ca

Website: canadainternational.gc.ca/mali

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours.

You can also get consular assistance from the nearest Australian high commission, in Accra, Ghana.

Australian High Commission, Accra

2, Second Rangoon Close

(cnr Josef Broz Tito Ave)

Cantonments, Accra

Ghana

Phone: +233 302 216 400

Fax: +233 302 216 410

Email: AccraHC.Enquiries@dfat.gov.au

Website: ghana.highcommission.gov.au

Facebook: Australian High Commission, Ghana

Twitter: @AusAmbGHA

The Australian High Commission in Accra currently has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in West Africa, except in Ghana.

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia