Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against all travel to the whole of the Mali due to the unpredictable security conditions.
\n\nIf you’re in Mali, you should leave immediately by commercial flight if you judge it safe to do so.
\n\nDo not try to leave Mali by overland routes to neighbouring countries as this is too dangerous. This is due to terrorist attacks along national highways.
\n\nTerrorist group Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) has implemented blockades on key routes throughout Southern and Western Mali, including the capital city of Bamako. These blockades are targeting fuel trucks and are enforcing checkpoints for individuals attempting to pass through them. Attacks can occur at any time.
\n\nThere is a high threat of kidnapping and criminal activity across Mali, including in the capital, Bamako.
\n\nIf you choose to remain in Mali, you do so at your own risk. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government.
\n\nFor more detail see Fuel shortages and Terrorism in Mali in the Safety and security page.
\n\nIf you are a British national already in Mali, either resident or visitor, carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying.
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nSupport for British nationals is severely limited in Mali, especially outside Bamako.
\n\nDo not rely on FCDO being able to help you to evacuate in an emergency.
\n\nIf you are in Mali and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Bamako.
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, who choose to travel despite FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Mali’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Mali set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Malian Embassy in Europe, which covers the UK.
\n\nTo enter Mali, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nYou must have a visa to visit Mali. The application and payment process is now fully online via the Malian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
\n\nAn entry permit will be issued electronically once approved. There is no need to send documents to the Malian Embassy in Brussels, which covers the UK.
\n\nTo enter Mali, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Mali guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Mali. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nYou must get an export permit from the Ministry of Arts and Culture to take any cultural or archaeological objects out of Mali. You can get this from the director of the National Museum.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Mali.
\nSeveral terrorist groups operate in Mali, including Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) and Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP). Whilst the regions most affected by terrorist activity are central and northern Mali, JNIM has increasingly conducted attacks in southern Mali and has the capability and intent to target the capital, Bamako.
\n\nThe security situation in Mali has deteriorated amid an upsurge of terrorist attacks following the December 2023 withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission. Terrorists have increasingly attacked military bases and personnel, sometimes including foreign military personnel, as well as government and official buildings, including in Bamako. Such attacks often lead to the deaths of soldiers, civilians and others. Attempts to carry out similar attacks remain very likely.
\n\nTerrorist group Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) has implemented blockades on key routes throughout Southern and Western Mali, including the capital city of Bamako. These blockades are targeting fuel trucks and are enforcing checkpoints for individuals attempting to pass through them. Attacks can occur at any time.
\n\nTake particular care during elections and public holidays, and periods of national or religious significance. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities, including by complying with access restrictions imposed by authorities.
\n\nAttacks could be indiscriminate and occur at any time, including in places frequented by foreign nationals, such as:
\n\nExamples of recent significant attacks include:
\n\nThis continues a historical trend of terrorists attacking military bases and personnel, sometimes including foreign military, often leading to the deaths of soldiers, civilians and others.
\n\nThere is a very high threat of kidnapping by al-Qa’ida and Islamic State-aligned groups in Mali. JNIM and ISSP operate throughout Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. JNIM, in particular, has previously conducted kidnappings from all parts of Mali, including in urban areas and the capital, Bamako. In 2025, there was been an increase in kidnaps in Southern and Western Mali.
\n\nA number of foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Mali in recent years, by Al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliated groups.
\n\nBritish nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.
\n\nIf you are working or travelling in Mali, be aware of the very high threat of terrorist kidnapping. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, including when travelling and in crowded public places, including camps for displaced people, religious gatherings and places of worship, markets, shopping areas and places frequented by westerners like hotels, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and transport hubs. You should avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours.
\n\nThe long-standing policy of the British government is to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.
\n\nOn 24 May 2021, the vice-president, Colonel Assimi Goïta, detained the transitional President Bah N’Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, along with other members of the transitional government. Goïta was sworn in as head of state in June 2021. Presidential elections, originally scheduled for February 2024, were postponed.
\n\nPolitical unrest is an ongoing risk. Regular, large and at times violent protests have taken place in Bamako, with burning of tyres and clashes with the police. Police have responded with tear gas and small arms fire. Deaths and injuries have been reported.
\n\nMonitor local media and stay away from all large gatherings and political demonstrations. Avoid any blockades set up by the police and security forces. Keep several days’ stock of food and water in of case disturbances. You can monitor daily developments in English through the BBC World Service (88.9 FM in Bamako).
\n\nSecurity incidents between and within communities continue in many parts of the country, most notably in Mopti and Segou regions. In some instances, terrorist groups have become involved in these conflicts. Groups operating in the centre, north and north-east sectors use landmines.
\n\nThe level of violent crime is high, especially in the capital Bamako and southern regions. Be alert to the risk of street crime, armed robbery and kidnapping.
\n\nIn the northern border areas, bandits and smugglers may attack travellers, especially after dark. There have been instances of authorities asking for small payments from foreigners and Malians.
\n\nTo reduce your personal risk:
\n\nKeep copies of your passport’s photo page and your visa or entry stamp in a separate place from the original in case your passport is stolen.
\n\nKidnapping by criminal groups is widespread across Mali. There has been an increase in kidnappings of western nationals and gangs operate throughout Mali, including in Gao and Keyes regions. There is a possibility that criminal groups could sell people they kidnap as hostages to terrorist organisations.
\n\nBritish nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. You should avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours.
\n\nThere have been incidents of carjacking and kidnap across the country. If you are travelling against FCDO advice, beware of the threat to your vehicle and get advice from a security company or personal sponsor. There have been reports of vehicles driven by foreign nationals being vandalised.
\n\nTo reduce the risk of attacks:
\n\nMali is a secular country, but the people are predominantly Muslim. The country’s laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not offend religious beliefs, especially during Ramadan or in religious areas.
\n\nFrench is the official language in Mali and not many officials or healthcare workers speak English. You may have difficulty communicating if you cannot speak any French. Make sure you can use translation apps in case of an emergency.
\n\nAs a foreign national, you must carry ID such as a passport. You could face difficulties with security checks if you do not have the original document on you.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:
\n\nGet more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
\n\nYou should also:
\n\nDo not take pictures of military or government installations. Always ask permission before taking photographs that include local people.
\n\nIf you’re involved in or connected to a business or civil dispute in Mali, the Malian authorities may detain you, prosecute you or prevent you from leaving Mali until the matter is resolved.
\n\nHomosexuality is illegal in Mali. In December 2024, Mali’s National Transitional Council promulgated a new Penal Code which criminalises the promotion or participation in consensual same-sex relationships. The legislation introduced penalties of up to seven years imprisonment and fines of up to 500,000 francs.
\n\nThere is an increased risk of violence and threats, such as blackmail and intimidation, against anyone being thought to be part of the LGBT+ community or perceived to be supporting their rights. There have been arrests for ‘immoral behaviour’, and LGBT+ individuals have experienced physical, psychological, and sexual violence.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Mali, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Mali. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.
\n\nPolice checkpoints are common throughout Bamako. Always keep vehicle and personal identification documents with you.
\n\nApproach security checkpoints slowly and follow instructions. There have been incidents late at night where people dressed as policemen have demanded money from drivers in Bamako. Ask to see identification and get a receipt for payment.
\n\nExercise caution and do not resist demands if you feel threatened or in danger.
\n\nRoad conditions in Bamako are difficult during the rainy season from June to October. Roads outside Bamako are often damaged and dangerous. Other road users may drive unpredictably.
\n\nAttacks on major roads and transport routes by terrorists are increasing across the country, including through the use of landmines and other explosive devices. This is particularly the case in areas where terrorist groups are operational and near border areas, including the roads in northern and eastern Mali.
\n\nTerrorist group Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) has implemented blockades on key routes throughout Southern and Western Mali, including the capital city of Bamako. These blockades are targeting fuel trucks and are enforcing checkpoints for individuals attempting to pass through them. Attacks can occur at any time.
\n\nTake all necessary safety precautions, especially outside of main urban areas, have confidence in your security arrangements and stay alert.
\n\nIf you have an accident, go to the nearest police station to report it. If you stay at the scene of the accident, you may be vulnerable. Medical help after an accident is likely to be limited, especially outside of Bamako.
\n\nThere is currently a fuel shortage in Mali. Where fuel is available, there can often be long lines and in many parts of the country the price of fuel has increased. Plan ahead to make sure you can reach your destination.
\n\nInbound and outbound flights, including international flights, can be cancelled at short notice or diverted to an alternative location. Monitor messages from your carrier, and be prepared to make arrangements to stay overnight in a safe location.
\n\nThe security at Bamako airport is heavy, and guards search your vehicle before you enter the airport. Scammers posing as taxi drivers and guides operate around the airport – only use pre-arranged transport.
\n\nAirports in Mali outside of Bamako are extremely dangerous. Terrorist groups have repeatedly shelled Timbuktu airport since August 2023.
\n\nThe rainy season in Mali is from June to October. Heavy rains can cause floods and landslides. Monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas during this season.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nThe emergency number is 15 but emergency response capacity is very limited. Take local advice and arrange your own transport to a medical centre or hospital.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Mali, including:
\n\nYou should drink only boiled or bottled water, and avoid ice in drinks.
\n\nPharmacies are easily identifiable throughout Bamako. The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nMedical facilities in Mali are very limited. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Mali where some staff will speak English.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nEmergency response capacity is very limited. If no help is available, take local advice and arrange your own transport locally.
\n\nPolice: 17
\n\nAmbulance: 15
\n\nFire: 18
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n