Maximum Alerts / Mali

MaliLevel 4/4

Level published by the State Department on 07.06.2026 · read 16 October 2026 · source checked daily

Mali — official level as of 16 October 2026: Level 4/4 ("Do Not Travel"), from the U.S. Department of State. Maximum Insurance covers this country: hospital settled directly, unlimited repatriation, EUR 1.5M, certificate on payment.

Four official readings
United StatesState Departmentsource ↗Our reference level — the one shown across this site
Is the whole country advised against?Yesthe whole country is formally advised against
Level 4/4 — “Do Not Travel”
FranceFrance Diplomatiesource ↗Added on top of the U.S. level, under its own rules: red or orange AREAS
Is the whole country advised against?Yesthe whole country is formally advised against
“L’ensemble du territoire est classé en zone rouge.”
United KingdomFCDOsource ↗Added on top of the U.S. level, under its own rules: travel statuses
Is the whole country advised against?Yesthe whole country is formally advised against
our reading: all travel advised against, whole country
source reviewed 10 July 2026
SwitzerlandFDFAsource ↗Advisory cited by the Maximum policy
Is the whole country advised against?Yesthe whole country is formally advised against
our reading: Switzerland’s FDFA advises against all travel to the country
advice published 25.11.2025
The four readings on record agree: the whole country is formally advised against.Our comparison reading: 27 September 2026

All 207 countries compared, advisory by advisory →

How we read these four advisories

Every country has its own scale, so we ask them all the same question: is the whole country advised against?

An advisory covering only areas of the country does not raise the answer: it stays “No”, and the area is shown in the relevant column.

The level shown on this page — and across this site — is the one published by the U.S. State Department, from 1 (normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). France and the United Kingdom publish their own advisories, with their own rules: they add to that level, they do not replace it.

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Regional map…

120 recorded incidents (UCDP)hover, click to open it in the briefing

Level 4/4 — Do Not Travel Checked on 16 October 2026 · U.S. State Department
Observed repatriation
30 000 € – 200 000 €
Le Ciel Africain, 2026 ↗
Country briefing
Get the PDF

Where are you right now in Mali?

Doctors — Bamako40
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOBADA0.7 km
Google MapsDirections
DrCentre Medical Safari0.7 km

near Faso Kanu

Google MapsDirections
DrClinic Esther0.9 km

near Rue 61

Google MapsDirections
DrInfirmerie de la cité1.4 km

near Rue 105

Google MapsDirections
DrClinique Kolaba1.4 km

near Rue 274

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ADASCO1.7 km
Google MapsDirections
DrLe GUIDE1.8 km

near Rue 105

Google MapsDirections
DrClinique Renaissance1.9 km
Google MapsDirections
DrInconnu2.0 km

near Goudron de Magnambougou

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire Asacoso2.0 km
Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOMA I2.1 km

near Goudron de Magnambougou

Google MapsDirections
DrCabinet medical Anta2.1 km

near Rue 201
24/7

Google MapsDirections
DrCabinet Medical Mossoula2.1 km

near Rue 266

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOTOQUA2.2 km
Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de santé Miproma2.2 km

near Rue 266

Google MapsDirections
DrCabinet de Consultatation Rapha2.4 km
Google MapsDirections
DrClinique Médicale Klekan2.4 km

near Rue 430

66 29 19 23Directions
DrClinique Hawa2.5 km
20205120Directions
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOSAB III2.6 km
Google MapsDirections
DrBenky3.0 km

near Rue 340

Google MapsDirections
DrCabinet medical Bayo Assa3.1 km

near Rue 340
24/7

DrCabinet Medical le Secours3.1 km

near Rue 340

DrCabinet Medical la Sincérité3.3 km

near Rue 804

DrClinique Keneya3.4 km

near Rue 809

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOM3.5 km

near Boulevard du 22 Octobre

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé de Référence de Commune 63.7 km
Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOKAL3.9 km
Google MapsDirections
DrCentre Médico Social Français4.0 km
Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACODRAB4.0 km

near Boulevard Abdel Aziz Bouteflika

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACONIA4.0 km

near Rue 934

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOBAFA4.1 km

near Rue 846

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire Asacpoa4.1 km

near Rue 776

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire de Benkady4.1 km
Google MapsDirections
DrJean Duffour4.2 km

near Rue 810

Google MapsDirections
DrClinique Medical "Notre Santé4.2 km

near Rue 886 C

DrÉden chez Célestin4.2 km

near Rue 444
24/7

DrCentre de Santé de Référence de Commune 24.3 km

near Rue 477

Google MapsDirections
DrCentre de Santé Communautaire ASACOMA II4.4 km
Google MapsDirections
DrClinique notre santé4.5 km

near Rue 840

Google MapsDirections
DrClinique Medical "Notre Santé4.5 km

near Rue 935

Pharmacies — Bamako40
+Pharmacie Kodio0.3 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Bienvenue0.7 km

near Faso Kanu

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie le Guide0.7 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
+Parmacie Fanta Sangaré1.4 km
62730944Directions
+Pharmacie Tombwa1.6 km

near Rue 278

Google MapsDirections
+Bani1.6 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Mariam Cissé1.8 km

near Rue 22

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacopée Institut Fasya1.8 km

near Rue 144

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Beni SARL1.8 km

near Rue 105

76430000Directions
+Parmacie Espace Santé2.1 km
Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Deux mosquées2.2 km

near Rue Nasser

Google MapsDirections
+pharmacie officine Dr A.Singare2.3 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmarcie2.4 km

Goudron da Bamako

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Moustapha Dembélé2.4 km

near Rue 151

+Pharmacie Samou Diakité2.4 km

near Rue 88

+Pharmacie du 2è Pont2.6 km

near Route de l'Aéroport

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Khasso2.6 km

near Rue 225

Google MapsDirections
+Parmacie Officine Yato2.7 km

near Goudron de Magnambougou

20 20 44 25Directions
+Parmacie Mah Sandji2.9 km
Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Fraternité3.0 km

near Rue 340

+Pharmacopée Dagaba3.0 km
Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Officine Amon3.1 km

near Rue 340

20204707Directions
+Pharmacie Faladié3.1 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacopée A3T3.1 km
Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Mieux Vivre Dr Vieux Diall3.2 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
+pharmacie officine Amina3.5 km
Google MapsDirections
+pharmacie Faguibine3.5 km

near Route de l'Aéroport

Google MapsDirections
+Dr Simaga3.6 km

near Rue 839 route gouverneur

Google MapsDirections
+Boutique Vente de Couches Adultes3.6 km
Google MapsDirections
+Gahame BANY3.7 km

near Rue 835

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Officine Telkinky3.7 km

near Rue 841

73065861Directions
+Pharmacie Bassan3.8 km

near Avenue de la Marne

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Dramela3.9 km

near Rue 843

+Pharmacie Samou Diakité4.1 km

Bamako

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Moustaphe Namoko4.2 km

near Rue 165

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Mohamed V4.3 km

near Rue 335

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Tour de l'Afrique4.3 km

near Route de Ségou

Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Yaye Diakite4.4 km
Google MapsDirections
+Pharmacie Mamadou Ballo4.4 km

near Rue 842

+Pharmacie Offine Balobo4.4 km

near Rue 930

Google MapsDirections
Official — Bamako19
Consulates and embassies 12
AResidence de l'ambassade de Chine0.7 km

near Rue 32

Google MapsDirections
AEmbassy of Nigeria1.0 km

near Rue 30

Google MapsDirections
AAmbassade d'Allemagne2.3 km

Avenue OUA, Rue 14 Bamako
Mo-Fr 08:30-11:30

AAmbassade d'Inde2.3 km

101 Avenue de l'O.U.A. Bamako

AConsulat du Niger2.3 km

near Rue 130

Google MapsDirections
AAmbassade du Sénégal2.7 km
Google MapsDirections
AAmbassade d'Egypte2.9 km

near Rue 114

Google MapsDirections
AAmbassade du Brésil2.9 km

62 Rue 113 Bamako
Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00

AAmbassade du Danemark2.9 km
ABureau de coopération suisse au Mali (DDC)3.0 km

537 Rue 28 Bamako

AAmbassade du Royaume-Uni3.1 km

Rue 28 Bamako
Mo-Th 10:00-12:00, 14:00-16:00 open "By appointment only"; Fr 10:00-12:00 open "

ADélégation de l'Union européenne3.8 km

Bamako
Mo-Th 08:00-13:00,14:00-17:30;Fr 08:00-13:30

Town halls 7
AMairie de Faladié - Banankabougou3.6 km
Google MapsDirections
AHôtel de Ville - Mairie du District de Bamako5.1 km

near Avenue de la Liberté

Google MapsDirections
AMairie de Kalaban Coro6.7 km

near Rue 170

Google MapsDirections
AMairie de la Commune IV6.9 km

near Rue 242

AMairie de la Commune I6.9 km

near Rue 81

Google MapsDirections
ADirection Nationale du Travail7.0 km

near Rue 407

Google MapsDirections
AMairie Badialan III7.5 km

near Rue 505

Google MapsDirections
Police — Bamako12
PPolice de la circulation carrefour Daoudabougou0.0 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
PPolice de la circulation carrefour EOSY0.9 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
PPolice de la circulation carrefour Magnambougou1.4 km

Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
PCommissariat de police du 7ème arrondissement1.6 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
PÉcole Nationale de la Protection Civile1.9 km
Google MapsDirections
PGendarmerie Nationale Unité Cynophiles1.9 km
Google MapsDirections
PGrigade Spéciale d'intervention BSI1.9 km

near Rue 22

Google MapsDirections
PPolice de la circulation carrefour Auto gare2.1 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
PBrigade de gendarmerie de faladie2.5 km
Google MapsDirections
Pbrigade fluviale de bamako3.5 km

near October 22 Boulevard

Google MapsDirections
Pcommissariat de police du 11e arrondissement3.7 km
Google MapsDirections
Pposte de police de baco djicoroni4.4 km
Google MapsDirections
Transport — Bamako9
Bus 6
TBinke Transport0.1 km
Google MapsDirections
TAutogare0.6 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
TAfrica Trans Tour0.6 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

+22320209753Directions
TGare Routière Rimbo0.8 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
TToupac Transport1.1 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
TDiarra Transport1.3 km

near Avenue de l'O.U.A.

Google MapsDirections
Taxis 3
TPlace Point G5.8 km

near 11

Google MapsDirections
TPlace Taxi (Clinique Mariam)6.3 km

near Route allant a Sikoroni

Google MapsDirections
TPlace Taxi (Rue Danfaga)6.3 km

near Rue 246

Google MapsDirections

The next 7 days around Bamako Africa/BamakoMET Norway ↗read 16.10.2026

Fri 16 Oct24–34°showers · 2.3 mm
Sat 17 Oct24–34°partly cloudy · 0.2 mm
Sun 18 Oct25–34°partly cloudy · 0.1 mm
Mon 19 Oct24–34°showers · 2.1 mm
Tue 20 Oct23–33°rain · 1.0 mm
Wed 21 Oct25–36°overcast · 0.1 mm
Thu 22 Oct24–37°overcast

Forecast: MET Norway (Norwegian Meteorological Institute, CC BY 4.0), grouped by day and formatted by Maximum.

Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

10-16 4384.3 · 10-17 4225.7 · 10-18 4120.0 · 10-19 4063.4 · 10-20 4007.7 · 10-21 3925.4 · 10-22 3836.1 m³/s

Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.

No geolocated event in this country at this reading.

120 incidents recorded in the country, all pinned on the map above (zoom out) — the 40 closest to Bamako are listed here, nearest first.

  • 5.3 km · 8 January 2026 · Bamako city
    Gunfire reported at Mali airport CR Source: Radio France Internationale (RFI) website, Paris, in French 9 Jan 26 · 1 deaths
    BBC Monitoring News Alert
  • 18.9 km · 4 January 2026 · Mountougoula town
    Two killed, others wounded in militant attack near Mali capital CR Source: L'Independant, Bamako, in French 6 Jan 26 · 2 deaths
    BBC Monitoring News Alert
  • 59.2 km · 11 March 2026 · Zantiguila village
    #MALI 🇲🇱 #Koulikoro;#Mali;Mali army repels militant attack in south-central region · 1 deaths
    @Intelligency225;@KargnHasret;BBC Monitoring News Alert
  • 67.1 km · 2 May 2026 · Sebabougou village
    FLASH INFO;The video shows the results · 9 deaths
    FAMA;@TheAfricanCorps
  • 67.1 km · 27 April 2026 · Sebabougou village
    The official statement of the African Corps · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram
  • 107.5 km · 23 May 2026 · Kolokani town
    FLASH INFO
    FAMA
  • 107.5 km · 26 April 2026 · Kolokani town
    FLASH INFO
    FAMA
  • 156.2 km · 24 May 2026 · Sosso village
    During joint intelligence and search operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 157.3 km · 23 February 2026 · Zantiebougou town
    FAMa Actu · 3 deaths
    @KargnHasret
  • 158.2 km · 23 February 2026 · Fanémé village
    FAMa Actu · 3 deaths
    @KargnHasret
  • 160.3 km · 16 March 2026 · Yanfolila town
    #Mali;#Mali;JNIM claims · 1 deaths
    @KargnHasret;@KargnHasret;@BrantPhilip_
  • 171.6 km · 29 April 2026 · Kwala town
    On April 29, 2026 · 3 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram
  • 171.6 km · 27 April 2026 · Kwala town
    On 27.042026 · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram
  • 171.6 km · 4 June 2026 · Kwala town
    During joint reconnaissance and search operations · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 186.3 km · 17 May 2026 · Kamale village
    During joint intelligence and search operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 214.4 km · 3 May 2026 · Mourdiah village
    During the joint reconnaissance and search operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 214.4 km · 30 April 2026 · Mourdiah village
    During the reconnaissance and search operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 214.4 km · 15 June 2026 · Mourdiah village
    Mali · 1 deaths
    Africa corps
  • 214.4 km · 5 June 2026 · Mourdiah village
    In the Mourdiah region · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 231.4 km · 6 February 2026 · Torodo village
    Mali: At least eight people executed by the army near Kayes · 8 deaths
    RFI
  • 236.1 km · 14 May 2026 · Sarakala village
    Mali: The army is stepping up operations, with both successes and abuses.;#Mali;#Mopti #Sarakala ;List of people;Yesterday evening · 31 deaths
    RFI;@SimNasr;@MedLilly1;@MedLilly1;@BrantPhilip_
  • 238.1 km · 1 April 2026 · Markala town
    FLASH INFO;FAMa Actu · 3 deaths
    FAMA;FAMA
  • 260.7 km · 8 May 2026 · Zangassi village
    FLASH INFO;In the Koutiala region · 12 deaths
    FAMA;@18Echo0321
  • 263.5 km · 4 June 2026 · Tabakoro village
    #Mali;Malian armed forces · 3 deaths
    @KargnHasret;@TheAfricaCorps
  • 271.2 km · 23 May 2026 · Falémougou village
    Regarding the current situation in the Republic of Mali · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 281.7 km · 12 June 2026 · Niono town
    A group of terrorists · 3 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram
  • 281.7 km · 7 June 2026 · Niono town
    As a result of joint reconnaissance and search operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram
  • 281.7 km · 9 May 2026 · Niono cercle
    During intelligence and reconnaissance operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 281.7 km · 2 May 2026 · Niono cercle
    During reconnaissance and search operations · 2 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 281.7 km · 25 May 2026 · Niono town
    During joint intelligence and search operations · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 281.7 km · 20 May 2026 · Niono cercle
    On May 20, 2026 · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 281.7 km · 27 March 2026 · Niono town
    FLASH INFO · 1 deaths
    FAMA
  • 289.2 km · 16 February 2026 · Sikasso town
    'Several dozen' militants killed as Mali army repels raids CR Source: Nouvel Horizon, Bamako, in French 17 Feb 26;Mali, Sikasso.;According to multipl · 13 deaths
    BBC Monitoring News Alert;Naïm Touré on Telegram;@SahelAlert
  • 294.2 km · 12 May 2026 · Nara town
    During intelligence and search operations · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 294.5 km · 30 January 2026 · Nayo village
    #Mali ;#Mali;#Mali;#Mali · 10 deaths
    @SimNasr;@KargnHasret;@KargnHasret;@KargnHasret
  • 296.1 km · 29 May 2026 · Tissana village
    FLASH INFO;During joint intelligence · 1 deaths
    FAMA;@TheAfricaCorps
  • 304.1 km · 13 May 2026 · Siraouma village
    Malian and Russian forces 'dismantle' militant base in central Mali · 3 deaths
    BBC Monitoring News Alert
  • 308.8 km · 18 January 2026 · Béma village
    JNIM claims ; #Mali;The Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (#JNIM) · 1 deaths
    @CEENASA396971;@SahelAlerte;@SahelAlerte
  • 313.6 km · 2 June 2026 · Diabaly town
    In the Mourdiah region · 1 deaths
    @TheAfricaCorps
  • 336.4 km · 14 March 2026 · Médina village
    The Malian Armed Forces · 13 deaths
    @BrantPhilip_

Source: UCDP — GEDEvent_v26_01_26_06.csv. Closed period, Clear coding, precise location.

Country notices, with no street coordinate

Now
Level 2 - Global Polio
Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Country List : Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan,…
Now
Level 1 - Diphtheria in Sub-Saharan Africa
There are outbreaks of diphtheria in several countries in Africa. Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against the disease. Country List : Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, Somalia Country List : Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, Somalia Country List : Chad, Guinea, Niger,…

The country feed →

National numbers (Wikidata, 2026 reading). On site, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: the insurer sends its payment guarantee to the hospital.

Recommended vaccines and medicines12

Routine vaccinesCDC ↗

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include Chickenpox (Varicella) Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP, Tdap, or Td) Flu (influenza) Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Polio Shingles

COVID-19CDC ↗

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information.

ChikungunyaCDC ↗

All travelers should take steps to prevent mosquito bites. Chikungunya vaccination is generally not recommended. Travelers who wish to consider vaccination can visit “What to consider before traveling” on the chikungunya vaccines page to learn more.

Hepatitis ACDC ↗

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Mali. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series. Travelers allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Hepatitis BCDC ↗

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Mali.

MalariaCDC ↗

CDC recommends that travelers going to Mali take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take. Transmission areas All Drug resistance 1 Chloroquine Species P. falciparum (primarily) P. malariae , P.

MeaslesCDC ↗

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

Meningococcal diseaseCDC ↗

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Mali  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season (roughly December to June).

MonkeypoxCDC ↗

Monkeypox vaccination is recommended for any adult who anticipates any of the following activities during travel: Sexual or intimate contact with a new partner Sexual or intimate contact at a commercial sex venue, like a sex club or bathhouse Sexual or intimate contact in exchange for money, goods, drugs, or other trade Sexual or intimate contact in association with a large public event, such as a rave, party, or…

RabiesCDC ↗

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Mali. If rabies exposures occur while in Mali, rabies vaccines are typically not readily available.

TyphoidCDC ↗

Recommended for most travelers. Typhoid vaccine is not 100% effective. Practicing safe food and water habits , including washing hands at key times , can also help prevent typhoid fever .

Yellow FeverCDC ↗

CDC recommendations: Vaccine is recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old. Vaccine is not recommended for travel limited to areas in the Sahara Desert. Country entry requirements: Vaccine is required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old Updated April 23, 2025

CDC Travelers' Health, re-read weekly — the recommendation depends on your age, vaccines and itinerary: confirm it with a doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure.CDC ↗read 09.10.2026

Diseases without a vaccine — how they spread

Avoid contaminated food and water
  • Leptospirosis — Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud Drinking water or eating foo
  • Melioidosis — Contact with contaminated fresh water, mud, or soil, especially after heavy rains   Drinking contaminated water Breathing in contaminated dust or water droplets, especially during severe weather
  • Schistosomiasis — Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.
Avoid bugs
  • African Tick-Bite Fever — Tick bite
  • Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever — Tick bite  Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
  • Dengue — Mosquito bite
  • Leishmaniasis — Sand fly bite
  • Zika — Mosquito bite An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby
Airborne & droplet
  • Hantavirus — Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents Bite from an infected rodent Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus
  • Lassa Fever — Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids
  • Tuberculosis (TB) — Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Risks in figures

Tuberculosis — cases per 100,000
Mali51 2024
Switzerland5 2024
France8 2024

Moderate incidence: nothing special for a short stay.

Children vaccinated against measles (%)
Mali72 2024
Switzerland96 2024
France95 2024

Coverage too low to stop the virus circulating: check your two MMR doses before leaving.

Malaria — cases per 1,000 people at risk
Mali346.2 2024

Strong transmission: discuss preventive treatment with a doctor before leaving; bed net and repellent on site.

World Bank — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 09.10.2026

The official advice, in full

Source: France Diplomatie (health advice, in French).

In brief
  • Consult your doctor or an international vaccination centre well before departure to assess your health and receive vaccination recommendations. France Diplomatie
  • Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for Mali and must be administered at an approved centre before departure. France Diplomatie
  • Carry only necessary medications in original packaging with original labels, accompanied by a prescription listing drugs by international non-proprietary name. France Diplomatie
  • Never swim in rivers, lakes or water bodies anywhere in Mali due to high bilharzia risk, including tourist sites like Banani and Siby pools. France Diplomatie
  • Drink only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks; avoid raw or undercooked food, raw vegetables and cold buffets. France Diplomatie
  • The emergency number is 15 but response capacity is very limited; arrange your own transport to a medical centre and contact your insurance company immediately if referred for treatment. Foreign Office

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

WHO: no outbreak reported for this country in the last 24 months (Disease Outbreak News).who.int ↗read 15.10.2026

France Diplomatiesource ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Recommandations pour la santé

Consulter si besoin son médecin traitant ou un centre de vaccinations internationales (médecine des voyages) pour faire une évaluation de son état de santé et bénéficier de recommandations sanitaires, notamment sur les vaccinations. Consulter éventuellement son dentiste avant le départ.

Constituer sa pharmacie personnelle en conséquence et n’emporter dans ses bagages que les médicaments strictement nécessaires ; ne jamais consommer de médicaments achetés dans la rue (risque de contrefaçons). Les médicaments doivent être dans leur emballage d’origine avec les étiquettes originales, accompagnés d’une ordonnance portant le nom des médicaments en dénomination commune internationale (DCI). Il est indispensable de vérifier que les médicaments concernés sont autorisés dans le pays visité : pour plus d’informations, consulter la fiche Informations pratiques .

Vaccinations

Les vaccins recommandés en France sont également indispensables lors d’un séjour à l’étranger : les maladies qu’ils préviennent circulent partout dans le monde, parfois même plus fréquemment qu’en France. Avant tout départ, le voyageur (adulte et enfant) doit donc d’abord s’assurer d’être à jour du calendrier vaccinal français, en particulier des vaccins contre la diphtérie, le tétanos, la poliomyélite, la coqueluche mais aussi contre la rougeole. Le carnet de vaccination peut être demandé à l’arrivée de certains pays.

Des vaccinations complémentaires peuvent être nécessaires :

  • Fièvre jaune : la fièvre jaune est endémique au Mali et la vaccination contre la fièvre jaune est obligatoire (à pratiquer avant le départ dans un centre agréé) ;
  • Hépatite A : en fonction des conditions et de la durée de séjour ;
  • Fièvre typhoïde : en fonction des conditions et de la durée de séjour ;
  • Hépatite B : en cas de séjours fréquents ou prolongés ;
  • Méningite ACWY : en cas de séjour pendant la saison sèche (habituellement hiver et printemps) ou d’épidémie signalée ;
  • Tuberculose : chez les enfants de moins de 15 ans en cas de séjours fréquents ou prolongés ;
  • Rage : notamment enfants en bas âge, séjour en milieu rural ou éloigné des villes principales ;
  • Chikungunya : en cas d’épidémie ou de séjour prolongé ;
  • Dengue : en cas d’épidémie active ou de séjour prolongé en zone endémique ;
  • Mpox : en cas d’exposition à risque.

Il est donc conseillé de consulter son médecin traitant ou un centre de vaccinations internationales (médecine des voyages) suffisamment de temps avant le voyage.

Maladies transmises par les moustiques

Chikungunya

La chikungunya est une maladie virale transmise par l’intermédiaire de moustiques infectés. Cette maladie se manifeste par l’apparition de symptômes grippaux (fièvre, douleurs musculaires et articulaires). En cas de signes cliniques, il est impératif de consulter immédiatement un médecin ; le traitement est uniquement symptomatique. Les moyens de prévention reposent sur la vaccination et la protection contre les piqûres de moustiques. Il est conseillé avant le départ de se référer à son médecin traitant et/ou à un centre de vaccination internationale.

Pour plus d’informations , consulter la rubrique risques sanitaires .

Dengue

La dengue est une maladie virale transmise par piqûres de moustiques. Les symptômes sont de type grippal (fièvre, maux de tête, courbatures, parfois éruption cutanée). En cas de signes cliniques, il est impératif de consulter immédiatement un médecin. Il n’existe pas de traitement curatif. La prise en charge médicale repose uniquement sur le traitement des symptômes. Il faut impérativement éviter la prise d’anti-inflammatoire. La prévention individuelle repose essentiellement sur les moyens de protection contre les piqûres de moustiques. La vaccination des voyageurs peut être indiquée dans certains cas. Il est conseillé de se référer, avant son départ, à son médecin traitant et /ou à un centre de vaccination internationale.

Pour plus d’informations, consulter le site du ministère de la Santé et le site de l’Organisation mondiale de la Santé .

Fièvre jaune

Il s’agit d’une maladie virale transmise par piqûres de moustiques. Les symptômes sont variables, allant du syndrome pseudo-grippal (fièvre, frissons, douleurs musculaires, maux de tête…) à des formes plus graves (vomissements de sang, jaunisse, convulsions, coma…)…

Autres maladies

Bilharziose

La bilharziose ou schistosomiase est une maladie parasitaire fréquente causée par des vers plats. La transmission se fait par contact avec des eaux douces contaminées ou des larves du parasite pénètrent la peau. Leurs œufs sont ensuite excrétés par l’urine ou les selles, contaminant à nouveau l’environnement. Dans sa forme aiguë, la maladie peut provoquer des démangeaisons cutanées, de la fièvre, des douleurs musculaires et abdominales. Lorsqu’elle devient chronique, elle entraîne des complications plus graves de type urogénital (sang dans les urines) et/ou de type intestinal (diarrhée, douleurs abdominales). En l’absence de traitement, la bilharziose peut entrainer des lésions graves et invalidantes, un cancer de la vessie ou une atteinte hépatique, voire même le décès. Le traitement repose sur la prise d’un antiparasitaire, administré par voie orale. Il est recommandé de consulter un médecin au moindre signe évocateur. Pour prévenir cette maladie, il est essentiel d’éviter le contact avec des eaux suspectes.

Pour plus d’informations , consulter le site de l'Organisation mondiale de la Santé .

Les risques d’atteinte par la bilharziose sont importants au Mali. Il est déconseillé de se baigner dans les fleuves, rivières et plans d’eau dans l’ensemble du pays. L’infection est possible y compris dans les eaux courantes. Cette recommandation concerne notamment les mares de Banani (pays Dogon) et de Siby (environs de Bamako), situées dans des zones touristiques. La prévention de la maladie pour le voyageur repose notamment sur l’abstention de baignade en fleuve, rivière et plan d’eau et sur la consommation d’eau encapsulée ou rendue potable.

Choléra

Le choléra est une infection digestive bactérienne qui se transmet par ingestion d’aliments mal cuits…

Mesures générales de prévention des piqûres de moustiques
  • Porter des vêtements longs et couvrants ;
  • Appliquer des produits répulsifs cutanés sur les zones découvertes du corps ;
  • Protéger son logement (moustiquaires imprégnées d’insecticide, diffuseurs électriques, serpentins à l’extérieur, climatisation, etc.) ;
  • Détruire les sites potentiels de reproduction des moustiques (récipients d’eau stagnante comme les soucoupes sous les pots de fleurs, les gouttières, les pneus, etc.).

Pour plus d’informations, consulter le site du ministère en charge de la Santé et le site de l'Assurance Maladie .

Règles d'hygiène alimentaire
  • Se laver les mains régulièrement avec de l’eau et du savon ou des solutions de lavage hydroalcooliques, surtout avant et après les repas et le passage aux toilettes ;
  • Veiller à la qualité des aliments et surtout à leur bonne cuisson ;
  • Éviter la consommation de produits alimentaires (poisson, viande, volaille, lait) crus ou peu cuits ;
  • Peler les fruits et légumes ou les laver soigneusement (à l’eau saine) ;
  • Éviter les crudités, coquillages, plats réchauffés et buffets froids ;
  • Ne boire que de l’eau ou des boissons encapsulées ou de l’eau rendue potable (filtration, ébullition ou à défaut produit désinfectant).

Pour plus d’informations, consulter le site du ministère en charge de la Santé .

Health — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Health — Foreign Office

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

The 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.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

  • check the latest vaccine recommendations for Mali
  • see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Mali, including:

  • typhoid and cholera
  • rabies
  • Zika virus
  • malaria and dengue
  • yellow fever
  • meningitis

You should drink only boiled or bottled water, and avoid ice in drinks.

Medication

Pharmacies 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.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Mali

Medical 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.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Mali where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

TravelHealthPro ↗ · CDC ↗read 09.10.2026

Level 2 - Global PolioCDC ↗read 09.10.2026Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Country List : Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan,…

Level 1 - Diphtheria in Sub-Saharan AfricaCDC ↗read 09.10.2026There are outbreaks of diphtheria in several countries in Africa. Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against the disease. Country List : Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, Somalia Country List : Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, Somalia Country List : Chad, Guinea, Niger,…

Places read from OpenStreetMap, within a circle of about 12 km: phone, email, address, website and hours when the source publishes them. No customer reviews, that source has none. Straight-line distances.

The comparator

What is your current insurance?

The verdict
Your Amex Platinum expressly excludes this trip: the T&Cs rule out travel to countries your government has advised against visiting.
Exact wording (official French text): « Des Voyages vers des pays où Votre gouvernement a conseillé de ne pas voyager » — general exclusion n° 11, applying to ALL travel covers.
Line by line
Cover
With your Amex Platinum
Country 'formally advised against' (like this one today)
✕ Excluded — countries your government advised against (T&Cs 01.2025, exclusion n° 11)
Covered — the core of the Maximum contract
Medical expenses cap abroad
€2M — but 10% deductible (€150–500), insurer's prior approval, trip paid with the Card
EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses
Hospital deposit before admission
Advance possible — prior approval required before care
Direct payment guarantee: the insurer settles the hospital
Trip duration covered
Maximum 90 consecutive days per trip
12 months, unlimited trips
Visa certificate (incl. Schengen)
Not provided
Official named certificate, issued on payment

Notices vary by bank and vintage — yours prevails. On the right: the Maximum contract (public documents).

Where to go, where not to

At least one official reading covers the whole country; no region is singled out.

In brief
  • Avoid all travel to Mali due to terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and fuel shortages; Canadian embassy consular services may be limited if security deteriorates. Global Affairs Canada
  • The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Mali due to unpredictable security conditions. Foreign Office
  • French journalists are advised to avoid travelling to Mali as current conditions are unfavourable for press travel. France Diplomatie

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Bamako: the whole country is rated “advised against — all travel” (Global Affairs Canada, Foreign Office).The red dot on the map. Change the city at the top of the page to read the map from another point.

Global Affairs Canada — advises against all travel to the whole country.

Foreign Office — advises against all travel to the whole country.

Kayes — Advised against — all travelTombouctou — Advised against — all travelGao — Advised against — all travelMopti — Advised against — all travelSégou — Advised against — all travelWassoulou — Advised against — all travelKoulikoro — Advised against — all travelKidal — Advised against — all travelBamako — Advised against — all travelKayesTombouctouGaoMoptiSégouWassoulouKidalBamako
Advised against — all travelBamakoSynthesis of the readings: Global Affairs Canada, Foreign Office, France Diplomatie. Where they differ, the colour keeps the strictest reading; the official text, quoted below region by region, prevails. Boundaries: Natural Earth.
Advised against — all travel
the whole country, including Bamako (Global Affairs Canada, Foreign Office)
So:

an official reading covers the whole country; every trip calls for a written management decision, justified by a pressing reason, with reinforced conditions.

US07.06.2026
Level 4 of 4Do not travel
FR11.03.2026
Whole country advised againstYour region (Bamako): covered, like the whole country
GB10.07.2026
Whole country: no travelYour region (Bamako): covered, like the whole country
CA09.10.2026
Avoid all travelYour region (Bamako): covered, like the whole country
CH25.11.2025
Whole country advised againstSwitzerland’s FDFA advises against all travel to the country.
Maximum does not exclude these areas.The VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there. Still enforceable: sanctions and embargoes, and a country already at war at departure. Extraction and security belong to the VIP Pack Extreme, upon eligibility. See My cover

Global Affairs Canada — Open Government Licence – Canada (09.10.2026) · Foreign Office — Open Government Licence v3.0 · France Diplomatie (11.03.2026) · Natural Earth

Last change: Updated information about recent terrorist attacks in Mali (‘Safety and security’ page).

Mali - Level 4: Do Not TravelState Department ↗updated 07.06.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Updated 07.06.2026

Do not travel to Mal i for any reason . Due to safety risks, family members cannot join U.S. government employees who work in Mali.

Crime

Violent crime is common throughout Mali. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

  • Violent crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during local holidays and seasonal events.
  • Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country.
  • In cities, police checkpoints are possible, especially at night.
  • Highways across the country often face attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mali. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

  • Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
  • Night clubs
  • Hotels
  • Restaurants
  • Places of worship
  • International diplomatic missions
  • Local security forces and civilians

Kidnapping

  • The threat of kidnapping of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals by criminal or terrorist groups remains high throughout the region. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are significant sources of financing for terrorist and criminal groups.

Unrest

  • Periodic street demonstrations occur throughout Mali. Although some are planned and peaceful, demonstrations can occur without notice and turn violent. The majority of these demonstrations are managed by security forces, but U.S. citizens should avoid street demonstrations. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

Armed Conflict

  • Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country. These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian government and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties.

Air Travel

  • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Mali. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s…

Nearest river dischargeOpen-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

10-16 4384.3 · 10-17 4225.7 · 10-18 4120.0 · 10-19 4063.4 · 10-20 4007.7 · 10-21 3925.4 · 10-22 3836.1 m³/s

Simulated discharge: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Emergency Management Service information 2026. For information only: this is not a flood warning; only national or regional authorities issue those.

Where, exactly?

What the national level does not tell you

The level is national. Risk areas are in the state advisories below.

  • U.S. State Department — the full advisory details the regions concerned and the reasons (crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest) (read the advisory)
  • Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (United Kingdom) — the United Kingdom advises against ALL travel to the whole country · reviewed 10 July 2026
    Last announced change : « Updated information about recent terrorist attacks in Mali (‘Safety and security’ page). » (read the advisory)
  • France Diplomatie — the French advisory covers the WHOLE country: « L’ensemble du territoire est classé en zone rouge. » (read the advisory)

1 event located on the map

  • Mali — Do Not Travel — level 4/4, U.S. State Department (source)
What happened, and where

Over 1 January 2026 → 30 June 2026, UCDP (Uppsala University) recorded 162 geolocated violent incidents in this country, for 517 documented deaths.

Most affected areas
Mopti region 37 · Tombouctou region 26 · Segou region 23 · Koulikoro region 21 · Kayes region 15 · Sikasso region 13

Most recent incidents

  • 23 June 2026 · Mopti region · Mopti town
    Mali · 2 deathsSource: Africa corps · 25 June 2026 · Africa Corps · UCDP #634536 ↗
  • 15 June 2026 · Koulikoro region · Mourdiah village
    Mali · 1 deathSource: Africa corps · 17 June 2026 · Africa Corps · UCDP #634463 ↗
  • 12 June 2026 · Segou region · Niono town
    A group of terrorists · 3 deathsSource: @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram · 15 June 2026 · Africa Corps · UCDP #631940 ↗
  • 11 June 2026 · Tombouctou region · Echell town
    Mali: At least 12 civilians killed by the army and the Russian Africa Corps in the Timbuktu region;Mali;Mali · 12 deaths (range 12–17)Source: Pressafrik;@Wamaps_news;@AgMohamed60 · 12 June 2026 · several local sources, including the human rights organization CD-DPA (Collective for the · UCDP #631975 ↗
  • 10 June 2026 · Segou region · Bélédaga village
    FLASH INFOSource: FAMA · 11 June 2026 · FAMa · UCDP #631947 ↗
  • 7 June 2026 · Segou region · Niono town
    As a result of joint reconnaissance and search operations · 2 deathsSource: @TheAfricaCorps on Telegram · 10 June 2026 · Africa Corps · UCDP #631937 ↗

Source: UCDP Georeferenced Event Dataset (Uppsala Conflict Data Program), file GEDEvent_v26_01_26_06.csv, CC BY 4.0 licence. We keep only incidents UCDP codes as "Clear" and whose location is precise enough to be placed — about 58% of the dataset. An incident may be revised, moved or withdrawn by UCDP in a later release: these figures describe a closed period, not a live situation.

Safety in figures
Road traffic deaths per 100,000 people
Mali22.7 2019
Switzerland2.2 2019
France5.1 2019

Reading: On the road, 10 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 09.10.2026

What we locate on the map are events in progress that have real coordinates: USGS earthquakes, GDACS disasters, NOAA storms and open NASA EONET events. Hover a dot for details, click to open it in this briefing.

I travel on a passportEach government writes for its own nationals. The advisory that counts for you — and for your policy's clauses — is your country's.

French passport — France Diplomatie

In brief
  • All of Mali is classified as a red zone; travel is formally advised against for all purposes, including tourism and family visits. France Diplomatie
  • Multiple terrorist groups operate throughout Mali, including within 100 kilometres of Bamako, targeting security forces and conducting attacks with improvised explosive devices and mines on roads outside the capital. France Diplomatie
  • The risk of kidnapping is high, particularly in central and northern Mali but also in Bamako and surroundings; several Western nationals, including French citizens, have been kidnapped in recent years. France Diplomatie
  • French nationals must register their mobile phone number on their Ariane account and pre-programme emergency numbers: police 80 00 11 15 and gendarmerie 80 00 11 14. France Diplomatie
  • Stay in secured hotels with filtered access, avoid night driving in Bamako, keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed, and park only in supervised locations. France Diplomatie
  • French journalists are advised to avoid travelling to Mali given the current context is unfavourable for press activities. France Diplomatie

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

L’ensemble du territoire est classé en zone rouge.France Diplomatie ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Vigilance areas — France Diplomatie (in French) updated 11.03.2026official map ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Formally advised against — red
  • Il est également recommandé aux journalistes français d’éviter de se rendre au Mali, le contexte actuel n’étant pas favorable aux voyages de presse.
Mali

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Zones de vigilance

Dernière actualisation le 11/03/2026, information toujours valable à la date du jour

Zones formellement déconseillées (en rouge sur la carte)

L’ensemble du territoire est classé en zone rouge.

Dans le contexte actuel de fortes tensions régionales et compte tenu de la présence de groupes terroristes et des risques d’attentat et d’enlèvement, tout déplacement au Mali est formellement déconseillé, y compris pour des raisons touristiques et familiales.

Les ressortissants français au Mali sont appelés à la plus grande vigilance : il est essentiel de se tenir à l’écart de tout rassemblement et de rester régulièrement informé de la situation.

Il est également recommandé aux journalistes français d’éviter de se rendre au Mali, le contexte actuel n’étant pas favorable aux voyages de presse.

Risque terroriste

Plusieurs groupes terroristes opèrent au Mali. Leurs attaques, qui sont susceptibles d’être conduites sur tout le territoire malien, ciblent en priorité les implantations et les convois des forces de sécurité maliennes (attaques multiples sur tout le territoire, y compris dans un rayon inférieur à 100 kms autour de Bamako). La présence possible d’engins explosifs improvisés (EEI) ou de mines, ainsi que les attaques fréquentes sur les axes routiers, interdisent toute circulation par la route en dehors de Bamako.

Le risque d’attentat à Bamako (attaque à main armée, véhicule piégé, kamikaze) et dans ses alentours, notamment visant des lieux publics fréquentés par les Occidentaux (restaurants, hôtels, lieux de loisirs, magasins), reste élevé.

Risque d’enlèvement

La menace d’enlèvement est élevée au Mali. Plusieurs enlèvements de ressortissants occidentaux, y compris français, ont eu lieu ces dernières années. Le risque est particulièrement élevé dans le centre et le nord du pays. Cette menace existe également à Bamako et dans ses alentours.

Criminalité

La présence insuffisante des services de l’État dans une grande partie du centre et du nord du Mali a conduit à une augmentation importante du banditisme et de la criminalité. Les atteintes aux biens et aux personnes y sont très fréquentes. Il est déconseillé de se rendre dans les zones concernées.

Recommandations générales

Il est impératif de disposer d’un numéro de téléphone portable afin de pouvoir communiquer facilement et d’enregistrer ce numéro sur votre compte Ariane.

Sur place
  • Séjourner dans les hôtels sécurisés dont les accès sont filtrés.
  • Respecter les règles de sécurité données par les services de sécurité maliens et les messages éventuels diffusés en cas d’urgence par l’ambassade et / ou le centre de crise et de soutien.
  • Pré-enregistrer sur son téléphone portable les numéros d’urgence des services de police ou de gendarmerie (police : 80 00 11 15 ; gendarmerie : 80 00 11 14).
  • Être particulièrement attentif à toute attitude inhabituelle ou suspecte compte tenu des usages locaux.
  • Éviter de porter des objets de valeur de manière ostentatoire, les signes extérieurs de richesse pouvant accroître les risques de vol à la tire.
  • Limiter autant que possible les déplacements à pied.
  • Être très prudent la nuit et à proximité des bars et discothèques à Bamako, en particulier à l’égard des chauffeurs de taxi.
  • Circuler en ville portes verrouillées et fenêtres fermées.
  • Garer les véhicules dans des endroits surveillés, vérifier leur fermeture et contrôler leur aspect extérieur avant utilisation (bas de caisse, capot, coffre, traces d’effraction).
  • La circulation de nuit à Bamako est à éviter.
  • Adopter une attitude prudente lors des contrôles de sécurité fréquents mis en place, notamment la nuit, dans la capitale. Rouler lentement à l’approche des barrages, s’arrêter et laisser contrôler le contenu du véhicule (habituellement le coffre). La nuit, réduire l’intensité des phares et allumer le plafonnier dans l’habitacle. Refuser l’accès à l’intérieur du véhicule (la réglementation malienne l’interdit). Se munir toujours de ses pièces d’identité. En cas de doute, demander la présentation de la carte professionnelle des policiers opérant le contrôle, vérifier que la photographie correspond à son détenteur. En cas de difficulté…

Full text of the Security pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland), in French

In brief
  • Swiss nationals are strongly advised against all travel to Mali and any stays there; the security risk is high and kidnapping risk is very high nationwide. DFAE
  • Switzerland cannot provide emergency assistance to Swiss citizens in Mali due to the extremely difficult security situation, particularly since MINUSMA withdrawal ended December 2023. DFAE
  • Terrorist attacks occur regularly throughout Mali; armed groups control vast areas in the north, northeast and centre, with expanded activity in the south and west. DFAE
  • Improvised explosive devices are placed along major roads; armed clashes between groups and security forces occur countrywide, affecting infrastructure and military installations. DFAE
  • Bamako faces direct threats from Islamist and armed groups in surrounding areas; armed units may block strategic access routes, causing persistent fuel and essential goods shortages. DFAE
  • Potential terrorist targets include state infrastructure, busy markets, shopping centres, public transport, schools and cultural events where civilian casualties are common. DFAE

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

FDFA update note — Le chapitre Situation générale a été actualisé. Toujours valable: Les voyages à destination du Mali ainsi que les séjours de tout genre dans ce pays sont déconseillés. (published 25.11.2025)

General assessment

Les voyages à destination du Mali ainsi que les séjours de tout genre dans ce pays sont déconseillés. Les risques sécuritaires sont élevés et le risque d’enlèvement est très élevé sur l’ensemble du territoire malien. Les personnes de nationalité suisse qui séjournent ou voyagent au Mali malgré les recommandations du DFAE, doivent être conscientes qu’il est très difficile pour la Suisse, voire impossible, de leur porter assistance en cas d’urgence. Il existe des risques élevés en matière de sécurité dans tout le pays. Des attaques terroristes ont lieu régulièrement et le risque d’enlèvements est très élevé. Depuis le retrait des forces de la mission de stabilisation de l’ONU (MINUSMA) fin 2023, la situation sécuritaire dans le pays s’est encore détériorée . La situation politique est extrêmement tendue. Il faut s’attendre à des grèves et des manifestations qui pourraient également viser les intérêts étrangers. Des blocages des axes routiers importants et des jets de pierres sur des véhicules peuvent se produire. Des personnes sont régulièrement tuées ou blessées lors de tels incidents. Des conflits entre différents groupes de la population font régulièrement des victimes. Des groupes islamistes et autres groupes armés opèrent dans tout le pays. Ils contrôlent de vastes zones du nord, du nord-est et du centre et ont étendu leurs activités au sud et à l'ouest du pays. Des affrontements armés entre ces groupes et les forces de sécurité, de même que des attaques contre des installations militaires et policières, ainsi que contre des infrastructures de l’aviation, se produisent dans tout le pays. Le danger représenté par les engins explosifs improvisés (IED) placés le long des grands axes routiers est également élevé. La capitale Bamako est directement touchée par la présence de groupes islamistes et autres groupes armés dans les environs de la ville. Bien qu'il n'y ait pas de contrôle direct à l'intérieur de la ville, il est possible que des unités armées bloquent des voies d'accès stratégiques, notamment en menant des attaques armées contre des convois de camions. Cela entraîne des pénuries persistantes de carburant et d'autres biens de première nécessité. Les actes de violence commis par des groupes terroristes et criminels font un grand nombre de victimes et de blessés parmi les civils. Parmi les cibles potentielles d’attaques terroristes figurent également les infrastructures étatiques ainsi que les lieux de grands rassemblements comme, par exemple, les marchés animés, les centres commerciaux, les transports publics, les écoles, les évènements culturels,…

FDFA travel advice, in French, valid on 15.10.2026eda.admin.ch ↗updated 25.11.2025 · read 15.10.2026

British passport — Foreign Office (UK)

In brief
  • The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Mali due to unpredictable security conditions and high terrorist threat. Travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel against this advice. Foreign Office
  • If in Mali, leave immediately by commercial flight if safe to do so. Do not attempt overland routes to neighbouring countries as terrorist attacks occur along national highways. Foreign Office
  • The terrorist group JNIM has implemented blockades on key routes in Southern and Western Mali, including Bamako, targeting fuel trucks and enforcing checkpoints. Attacks can occur at any time. Foreign Office
  • There is a high threat of kidnapping and criminal activity across Mali, including in Bamako. UK government support is severely limited, especially outside Bamako. Foreign Office
  • Terrorist groups JNIM and ISSP conduct attacks on military bases, government buildings, transport hubs, airports, hotels and crowded places. Recent coordinated attacks occurred on 25 April 2026 near Bamako International Airport. Foreign Office
  • Take particular care during elections, public holidays and periods of national or religious significance. Stay aware of surroundings, monitor local media and comply with access restrictions imposed by authorities. Foreign Office

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Regions covered by the Foreign Officegov.uk ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Advise against all travel
  • FCDO advises against all travel to the whole of the Mali due to the unpredictable security conditions. Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
Official Foreign Office map
Foreign Office map — Open Government Licence v3.0

Warnings — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Warnings — Foreign Office

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

## FCDO advises against all travel to Mali

FCDO advises against all travel to the whole of the Mali due to the unpredictable security conditions.

If you’re in Mali, you should leave immediately by commercial flight if you judge it safe to do so.

Do 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.

Terrorist 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.

There is a high threat of kidnapping and criminal activity across Mali, including in the capital, Bamako.

If 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.

For more detail see Fuel shortages and  Terrorism in Mali in the Safety and security page.

If you are a British national already in Mali, either resident or visitor, carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

UK government support

Support for British nationals is severely limited in Mali, especially outside Bamako.

Do not rely on  FCDO  being able to help you to evacuate in an emergency.

If you are in Mali and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Bamako .

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Safety — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Terrorism

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.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Mali

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Mali.

Several 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.

The 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.

Terrorist 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.

Take 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.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur at any time, including in places frequented by foreign nationals, such as:

  • national infrastructure
  • military sites and institutions
  • government and official buildings
  • international institutions
  • transport hubs, including airports and major roads
  • embassies
  • international businesses, including mining companies and operations
  • religious sites and places of worship
  • sporting and cultural events
  • shopping centres and crowded places
  • hotels, restaurants and bars

See also road safety

Examples of recent significant attacks include:

  • on 4 July, further coordinated attacks targetting military installations were carried out across multiple cities including Anefis, Aguelhoc, Gao, Sevare and Kenioroba
  • on 25 April 2026, a series of coordinated attacks occurred in multiple locations including Kidal, Gao, Kati, Severe and in the vicinity of Bamako International Airport (leading to the airport’s temporary closure)
  • since September 2025, there has been an increase in attacks targeting fuel convoys in Mali, particularly in southern and western Mali
  • in June 2025, JNIM claimed to kill more than 150 soldiers, in multiple attacks targeting military bases in Boulkessi, Timbuktu and Mahou
  • in March and May 2025, there were two separate attacks against a police station and a military base which damaged vehicles and infrastructure in Kati, approximately 15km from Bamako city centre
  • in February 2025, a roadside bomb killed two people and injured others in a convoy that was travelling on the road linking Kati to Soribougou

This continues a…

American passport — U.S. Department of State

In brief
  • The United States advises against all travel to Mali due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, unrest and health risks. State Department
  • Violent crime including kidnapping, armed robbery, and carjacking is common throughout Mali, particularly in Bamako during holidays and seasonal events. State Department
  • Terrorist groups target foreigners for kidnapping at hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, places of worship and diplomatic missions anywhere in the country. State Department
  • Armed roadblocks by armed groups occur throughout Mali, and highways face frequent attacks on government, civilian and commercial targets. State Department
  • U.S. government employees in Mali are restricted to Bamako only due to safety risks, and family members cannot join them. State Department
  • Avoid street demonstrations in Mali as they can turn violent without notice, and remain aware of police checkpoints especially at night in cities. State Department

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Mali - Level 4: Do Not Travel 2026-06-07travel.state.gov ↗updated 07.06.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Advisory summary

Do not travel to Mal i for any reason . Due to safety risks, family members cannot join U.S. government employees who work in Mali.

Crime

Violent crime is common throughout Mali. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

  • Violent crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during local holidays and seasonal events.
  • Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country.
  • In cities, police checkpoints are possible, especially at night.
  • Highways across the country often face attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mali. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

  • Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
  • Night clubs
  • Hotels
  • Restaurants
  • Places of worship
  • International diplomatic missions
  • Local security forces and civilians

Kidnapping

  • The threat of kidnapping of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals by criminal or terrorist groups remains high throughout the region. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are significant sources of financing for terrorist and criminal groups.

Unrest

  • Periodic street demonstrations occur throughout Mali. Although some are planned and peaceful, demonstrations can occur without notice and turn violent. The majority of these demonstrations are managed by security forces, but U.S. citizens should avoid street demonstrations. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

Armed Conflict

  • Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country. These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian government and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties.

Air Travel

  • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Mali. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s…

Global Affairs Canada — additional reading

Avoid all travel

MALI - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Avoid all travel to Mali due to the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and fuel shortages. If the security situation in Mali deteriorates, the ability of the Embassy of Canada to Mali, in Bamako, to provide consular services may be limited.

  • MALI — Avoid all travel to Mali due to the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and fuel shortages. If the security situation in Mali deteriorates, the ability of the Embassy of Canada to Mali, in Bamako, to provide consular services may be limited.

Open Government Licence – Canada · October 9, 2026 10:15 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

In brief
  • Carry your original passport at all times as a foreign national to avoid difficulties during security checks. Foreign Office
  • Do not photograph military, government installations, or local people without explicit permission beforehand. Foreign Office
  • Homosexuality is illegal in Mali; the December 2024 Penal Code criminalises same-sex relationships with penalties up to seven years imprisonment and fines of 500,000 francs. Foreign Office
  • During Ramadan (expected to begin around February 7, 2027), do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public between sunrise and sunset, including in your car. Global Affairs Canada
  • Dress conservatively and behave discreetly to respect Islamic practices; credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels, and ATM access is limited outside Bamako. Global Affairs Canada
  • Carry an International Driving Permit; exchange currency at the Central Bank of West African States on Koulikoro Road in Bamako, as exchange facilities elsewhere are slow with outdated rates. Global Affairs Canada

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Global Affairs Canada — written for Canadian travellers, valid for all

Local laws

You must abide by local laws. Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Photography of military personnel and installations is prohibited. Cultural and religious factors influence the interpretation of what subjects may be photographed. Ask permission before taking photographs.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Mali. If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mali by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mali to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies. Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

The law of Mali doesn’t prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. 2SLGBTQI+ persons could face other sanctions. 2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Mali. Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Exports

Mali restricts the export of certain Malian archaeological objects, particularly those from the Niger River Valley. Under Malian law, visitors seeking to export such items require an export authorization from the National Museum of Mali in Bamako.

Dress and behaviour

Mali’s customs, laws and regulations closely adhere to Islamic practices. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect Malian religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Ramadan

In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7. In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

  • drinking
  • eating
  • smoking
Driving

You should carry an International Driving Permit. International Driving Permit

Money

The currency is the African Financial Community franc, or CFA franc (XOF). Credit cards are rarely accepted outside a few major hotels. The Central Bank of West African States has a foreign exchange bureau on Koulikoro Road in Bamako, close to the Grand Hôtel. Exchange facilities are often slow and offer rates that are out of date. Access to ATMs is limited outside of Bamako.

Open Government Licence – Canada · October 9, 2026 10:15 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Foreign Office — laws and cultural differences

Local laws

Mali 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. French 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.

Personal ID

As 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.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:

  • eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
  • play loud music or dance
  • swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts. You should also:

  • check opening hours of shops and restaurants
  • be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
  • follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
  • be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
  • be patient and show tolerance
Using cameras

Do not take pictures of military or government installations. Always ask permission before taking photographs that include local people.

Commercial disputes

If 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.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality 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. There 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. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Open Government Licence v3.0gov.uk ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Air: Moderate 41/100PM2.5 17.2 µg/m³ · PM10 27.5 µg/m³
UV very high today max 10.2Right now 0.0 · WHO scale 0–11+

What it changes for you: Air acceptable at this hour: nothing special to plan. Very high UV: sunscreen, hat and shade between 11 am and 4 pm; sunstroke and dehydration are travellers' first reasons to see a doctor.

Reading 05:00 (Africa/Bamako)Open-Meteo ↗updated 16.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Air quality and UV: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0), data rounded and formatted by Maximum. Contains modified Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information 2026. Neither the European Commission nor ECMWF is responsible for any use that may be made of the Copernicus information or data it contains.

Physicians per 1,000 people
Mali0.2 2023
Switzerland4.5 2022
France3.3 2022
Hospital beds per 1,000 people
Mali0.2 2018
Switzerland4.4 2023
France5.7 2022
Health spending per person (USD)
Mali34 2023
Switzerland11,784 2023
France5,327 2024
Life expectancy (years)
Mali60.7 2024
Switzerland84.4 2024
France83.0 2024

Reading: With 0.2 physicians per 1,000 people (96% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 34 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.

World Bank — latest published value, year per indicatordata.worldbank.org ↗read 09.10.2026

I travel on a passportVisa, passport validity, entry form: the rules depend on your passport. Each government describes them for its own nationals.

French passport — France Diplomatie

In brief
  • Franco-Malian dual nationals without a French visa must enter Mali with a valid Malian passport only; expired Malian passports are no longer accepted as of 14 January 2024. France Diplomatie
  • Malian identity cards, NINA cards, birth certificates, safe-conducts and laissez-passers are rejected; passengers with these documents will be denied entry and immediately returned on the next flight. France Diplomatie
  • French nationals require a Mali visa issued by consulates in Paris or Lyon for thirty days, renewable locally; a valid passport and yellow fever vaccination certificate are mandatory. France Diplomatie
  • Mali visas are available by appointment only and cannot be obtained upon arrival at Bamako airport; travellers arriving without a visa face non-admission procedures and mandatory return. France Diplomatie

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Mali

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Formalités d’entrée

De nouvelles mesures réglementaires en frontière au Mali sont mises en place depuis le 14 janvier 2024 pour les ressortissants binationaux franco-maliens n’ayant pas de visa apposé sur leur passeport national français, seul le passeport malien en cours de validité est accepté. La tolérance accordée par le passé pour les passeports maliens expirés n’est plus en vigueur.

Tout autre document malien tel que la carte d’identité, la carte NINA, la fiche descriptive, l’acte de naissance malien, le sauf-conduit ou le laissez-passer… sont irrecevables et les passagers qui voyageraient avec ces documents se verraient refuser l’accès au territoire malien et seraient immédiatement remis sur le vol retour.

Les ressortissants français sont soumis à une obligation de visa. Le visa est délivré par les consulats généraux du Mali à Paris ou à Lyon, pour une durée de trente jours, renouvelable sur place. Les voyageurs doivent disposer d’un passeport en cours de validité, d’un carnet de vaccination attestant du vaccin contre la fièvre jaune. Les demandes de visa se font uniquement sur rendez-vous.

Il n’est pas possible d’obtenir un visa à l’arrivée à l’aéroport de Bamako. Les voyageurs arrivant sans visa sont systématiquement l’objet d’une procédure de non-admission. Les compagnies aériennes qui les ont transportés sont tenues de les reconduire par un prochain vol à leur pays d’origine.

Pour de plus amples informations, prendre l’attache de l’ambassade du Mali à Paris ou des consulats maliens en France (voir les contacts sur cette page).

Entry and stay pagediplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Swiss passport — FDFA (Switzerland)

The FDFA does not publish entry requirements: they are set out by the destination's embassy or consulate in Switzerland — check them before booking, passport in hand. As a guide, the French and British requirements below describe the same rules as seen by two other governments.eda.admin.ch ↗updated 25.11.2025 · read 15.10.2026

British passport — Foreign Office (UK)

In brief
  • Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Mali; entry will be denied if it is invalid, lost, or stolen. Foreign Office
  • You must obtain a visa to enter Mali through the fully online application process via the Malian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website; an electronic entry permit will be issued once approved. Foreign Office
  • You must present a certificate proving yellow fever vaccination to enter Mali. Foreign Office
  • You must declare all goods subject to prohibition, tax, or duty when entering or leaving Mali; an export permit from the Ministry of Arts and Culture director at the National Museum is required for cultural or archaeological objects. Foreign Office
  • British dual nationals must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement when returning to the UK. Foreign Office

Faithful summary of the official texts below, which prevail.

Entry requirements — rules for a British passportForeign Office ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Entry requirements — rules for a British passport

This 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.

The 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.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Mali, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You 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.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement . See Dual citizenship .

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Mali. The application and payment process is now fully online via the Malian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

An 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.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Mali, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Mali guide.

Customs rules

There 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.

You 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.

American passport — U.S. Department of State

The State Department publishes the requirements ("Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements") on its country page, which our servers cannot read. Read it before you go; as a guide, the French and British requirements below describe the same rules as seen by two other governments.travel.state.gov ↗updated 07.06.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Living on site

For each risk, the official texts themselves: what is happening, then, where they say so, what to do.

CrimeHIGH

What the texts say · The level of violent crime is high, especially in the capital Bamako and southern regions. There is a very high threat of kidnapping by al-Qa’ida and Islamic State-aligned groups in Mali.

What they advise:
  • Exercise caution and do not resist demands if you feel threatened or in danger.
  • Scammers posing as taxi drivers and guides operate around the airport – only use pre-arranged transport.
  • 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.
Foreign Office
TransportHIGH

What the texts say · Terrorist 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. There have been incidents late at night where people dressed as policemen have demanded money from drivers in Bamako.

What they advise:
  • Approach security checkpoints slowly and follow instructions.
  • Ask to see identification and get a receipt for payment.
Foreign Office
Nature and climateMODERATE

What the texts say · The rainy season in Mali is from June to October. Heavy rains can cause floods and landslides.

What they advise: Monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas during this season.
Foreign Office
Laws and customsTO KNOW

What the texts say · Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Photography of military personnel and installations is prohibited.

What they advise:
  • If you have an accident, go to the nearest police station to report it.
  • Always keep vehicle and personal identification documents with you.
  • Ask permission before taking photographs.
Global Affairs Canada · Foreign Office
Crowds and calendarMODERATE

What the texts say · Regular, large and at times violent protests have taken place in Bamako, with burning of tyres and clashes with the police. Demonstrations take place frequently, particularly at the Independence Monument, located in Commune III, and at the Bouguiba Monument, located in Commune IV in Bamako.

What they advise:
  • Monitor local media and stay away from all large gatherings and political demonstrations.
  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.
Foreign Office · Global Affairs Canada

Sentences copied word for word from the official texts cited, chosen for the destination; the level is our reading. The full texts, at each source:Foreign Office ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026 (updated 10.07.2026 · read 02.10.2026)Global Affairs Canada ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026 (updated 09.10.2026 · read 02.10.2026)

Safety in figures
Road traffic deaths per 100,000 people
Mali22.7 2019
Switzerland2.2 2019
France5.1 2019

Reading: On the road, 10 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

World Bank (UNODC for homicides, WHO for roads) — latest published valuedata.worldbank.org ↗read 09.10.2026

—:—Local time · Africa/Bamako ·
112Local emergency numbers · Single number 112 · Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18
Europlug, prise électrique de type E220 V
Drivingon the right

Time zone: IANA and timezone-boundary-builder (ODbL) · RESTCountries · EmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · European Central Bank

Places: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), Photon search by komoot.

Public holidaysNager.Date ↗read 25.09.2026

  • Fri 25 Dec — Christmas Day
ESSENTIAL

Maximum policyholder: before paying anything, call the 24/7 number. If you are admitted for more than 24 h, Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).

+41 22 ••• •• •• — Full number in your client area

The hospitals to know — Bamako

The hospital list has not been read from OpenStreetMap for this page yet: the medical-network map loads it when opened. Maximum's assistance directs you to the right facility, 24/7. The medical-network map ↗

40pharmacies40doctorsFull map and list ↗

Before you go

  • Routine vaccinesup to date
  • Yellow feverrequired for entry
  • Hepatitis Arecommended
  • Hepatitis Brecommended
  • Malariapreventive medicine recommended
  • Typhoidrecommended
  • Meningococcal diseasedepending on the area

CDC Travelers' Health recommendations, most important first. They depend on your age, vaccines and itinerary: confirm them with a doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Details, disease by disease ↗cdc.gov ↗read 09.10.2026

On site

DengueMosquitoes bite by day: repellent, long sleeves.
MalariaPresent in some areas: talk to a doctor before leaving.
ChikungunyaMosquito-borne: same protection as for dengue.
SunUV very high (10): hat, sunscreen, water.
MedicationIn their box, with the prescription — in English if possible.

The health system — With 0.2 physicians per 1,000 people (96% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 34 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.

Back home — a fever in the following weeks should be told to a doctor, naming the country.

The next 7 days Africa/BamakoMET Norway ↗read 16.10.2026

Fri 16 Oct24–34°showers · 2.3 mm
Sat 17 Oct24–34°partly cloudy · 0.2 mm
Sun 18 Oct25–34°partly cloudy · 0.1 mm
Mon 19 Oct24–34°showers · 2.1 mm
Tue 20 Oct23–33°rain · 1.0 mm
Wed 21 Oct25–36°overcast · 0.1 mm
Thu 22 Oct24–37°overcast

Forecast: MET Norway (Norwegian Meteorological Institute, CC BY 4.0), grouped by day and formatted by Maximum.

I travel on a passportYour embassy, and the service to register with, depend on your passport.

Your country, 24/7, from abroad

FR
Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs+33 1 53 59 11 0024/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.www.diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026
CH
FDFA Helpline+41 58 465 33 33+41 800 24 7 36524/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.www.eda.admin.ch ↗updated 25.11.2025 · read 15.10.2026
GB
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office+44 20 7008 500024 hours, for British nationals.www.gov.uk ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026
US
Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State+1 202 501 4444+1 888 407 4747From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.travel.state.gov ↗updated 07.06.2026 · read 16.10.2026

French passport — French embassy and consulates

FR
Ambassade de Franceembassy · nearest · 3.7 km

+223 44 97 57 57 · France Diplomatie

FR
Résidence de Franceembassy · 5.3 km

Bamako

phone not published

Useful contacts listed by France Diplomatie (in French)diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026

Updated: 15 September 2026

OpenStreetMap

Swiss passport — Swiss embassy and consulates

Useful addresses — FDFA, in French

Représentations suisses à l’étranger: En cas de situation d’urgence à l’étranger, vous pouvez vous adresser à la représentation suisse la plus proche ou à la Helpline DFAE. Ambassade de Suisse au Sénégal Bureau de coopération suisse et agence consulaire au Mali Helpline DFAE

OpenStreetMap · DFAE

British passport — British embassy and consulates

OpenStreetMap

American passport — U.S. embassy and consulates

OpenStreetMap

Police

  • Police de la circulation carrefour Daoudabougou · 0.0 km
  • Police de la circulation carrefour EOSY · 0.9 km
  • Police de la circulation carrefour Magnambougou · 1.4 km
    Avenue de l'O.U.A.
  • Commissariat de police du 7ème arrondissement · 1.6 km

Town hall

  • Mairie de Faladié - Banankabougou · 3.6 km
  • Hôtel de Ville - Mairie du District de Bamako · 5.1 km
  • Mairie de Kalaban Coro · 6.7 km

OpenStreetMap

Getting help — Foreign OfficeForeign Office ↗updated 10.07.2026 · read 15.10.2026

Getting help — Foreign Office

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.

Emergency services in Mali

Emergency response capacity is very limited. If no help is available, take local advice and arrange your own transport locally.

Police: 17

Ambulance: 15

Fire: 18

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact 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.

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call  FCDO  in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Ten phrases in French

For emergencies. If pronunciation fails, show the screen — or the printed page.

Help!Au secours !
Call an ambulance!Appelez une ambulance !
I need a doctor.J'ai besoin d'un médecin.
Where is the nearest hospital?Où est l'hôpital le plus proche ?
Call the police!Appelez la police !
I am allergic to penicillin.Je suis allergique à la pénicilline.
I have international medical insurance.J'ai une assurance médicale internationale.
I want to contact my embassy.Je voudrais contacter mon ambassade.
Please take me to this address.Emmenez-moi à cette adresse, s'il vous plaît.
Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais ?

Translations by Maximum Insurance, original script and transliteration.

  • Keep the entry stamp, hospital invoices and the medical report. Without them a claim cannot be rebuilt.
  • File it from the claim form, once back, with those papers.
  • The France Diplomatie health page mentions dengue and malaria and chikungunya. A fever in the weeks after return should be told to a doctor, naming the country.

Actions to take before each professional trip abroad.

1Once — the framework
2For each departure
3During the mission, and after

What is happening in Mali right now

Live alerts and level changes, each with its official source. Continuously updated.

What governments have just written

LatestSituation sécuritaire

La situation sécuritaire au Mali demeure très dégradée. Il est formellement déconseillé de se rendre au Mali, quel que soit le motif. Pour mémoire, il est également recommandé aux ressortissants français de prévoir un départ temporaire du Mali dès que possible par les vols commerciaux encore disponibles. Dans ce contexte, les ressortissants français encore présents au Mali sont appelés à faire preuve de la plus grande prudence lors de leurs déplacements, à éviter…

France Diplomatie (in French) · posted 25 April 2026 · updated 30 July 2026diplomatie.gouv.fr ↗updated 15.09.2026 · read 16.10.2026
UpdateGlobal Affairs Canada

The Need help? section was updated.

October 9, 2026 10:15 EDTtravel.gc.ca ↗updated 09.10.2026 · read 16.10.2026

No level change recorded for this country since the log opened. The live alerts above are updated continuously.

⚡ The world feed — every country →

Frequently asked questions — travel insurance Mali

24/7 support number — +41 22 ••• •• ••An adviser goes through each question with you until you have an actionable answer: cover, hospital, entry rules, claims. Full number in your client area. You can also ask Maximum directly, just below these questions.
What is the official risk level in Mali today?

Level 4/4 — Do Not Travel, U.S. Department of State, retrieved on 16 October 2026.

  • Is the whole country advised against? United States: yes · France: yes · United Kingdom: yes · Switzerland: yes (reading of 27 September 2026).
  • Switzerland’s FDFA advises against all travel to the country (published 25.11.2025).
  • The FDFA advises against the trip: art. 18.1 (Module A) opens cancellation, change and curtailment costs.
  • At this level most bank cards and standard policies exclude the trip: read My cover before booking, and only leave with cover that says so in writing.
  • We check these sources every morning and e-mail you the day one changes (Alerts button).

Sourcestravel.state.gov · updated 07.06 · read 16.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 16.10DFAE · updated 25.11 · read 15.10207-country comparison

Is the whole of Mali advised against, or only some areas?

An area advised against does not rule out the country.

  • Official answers: United States: yes · France: yes · United Kingdom: yes · Switzerland: yes.
  • France Diplomatie, areas formally advised against: “L’ensemble du territoire est classé en zone rouge. Dans le contexte actuel de fortes tensions régionales et compte tenu de la présence de groupes terroristes et des risques d’attentat et d’enlèvement, tout déplacement au Mali est formellement déconseillé, y…”
  • Keep your country of residence's advisory on booking day and on departure day: that is what your policy's clauses cite.

SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 10.07 · read 15.10State Department · updated 07.06 · read 16.10

What are the entry requirements for Mali with my passport?

The rules depend on the passport, not on the destination alone.

  • French passport (France Diplomatie): Franco-Malian dual nationals without a French visa must enter Mali with a valid Malian passport only; expired Malian passports are no longer accepted as of 14 January 2024. Malian identity cards, NINA cards, birth certificates, safe-conducts and laissez-passers are rejected; passengers with these documents will be denied entry and immediately returned on the next flight. French nationals require a Mali visa issued by consulates in Paris or Lyon for thirty days, renewable locally; a valid passport and yellow fever vaccination certificate are mandatory.
  • British passport (Foreign Office): Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Mali; entry will be denied if it is invalid, lost, or stolen. You must obtain a visa to enter Mali through the fully online application process via the Malian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website; an electronic entry permit will be issued once approved. You must present a certificate proving yellow fever vaccination to enter Mali.
  • American passport: the requirements are on the State Department country page (travel.state.gov).
  • Swiss passport: the FDFA refers you to the destination's embassy in Switzerland.
  • Pick your passport at the top of Before you go › Entry: the official text that concerns you comes first, with its “In brief” summary.

SourcesFrance Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 10.07 · read 15.10State Department · updated 07.06 · read 16.10

Do I need an insurance certificate for a Mali visa?

For a Schengen visa, yes: at least €30,000 of travel medical insurance (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, art. 15).

  • Many other countries ask for it on entry or for a visa, case by case: check Before you go › Entry, with your passport.
  • Subscribe: the named certificate arrives by e-mail on payment, with your name, dates and limits (EUR 1.5M medical expenses, unlimited evacuation and repatriation) — the ones consulates check.
  • Attach it to the visa file; if in doubt about the format, write to us.

SourcesRegulation (EC) 810/2009, art. 15General conditions, policy 20 00 479

What does Maximum Insurance do in Mali, concretely?

VIP Pack — €990 for twelve months, unlimited trips.

  • EUR 1.5M emergency medical expenses, unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation, search and rescue EUR 50,000, cancellation or change EUR 5,000.
  • One 24/7 number, +41 22 ••• •• ••: Maximum sends its direct payment guarantee to the hospital (art. 2.12).
  • Network of 45,000 providers (art. 6.9); evacuation is decided, organised and paid by Maximum's medical team if the local facility is not enough (art. 6.2.2).
  • Named certificate by e-mail on payment, no medical questionnaire.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479OpenStreetMap · read 12.10

How much does a medical repatriation from Mali cost?

From 30 000 € to 200 000 € depending on severity and distance (Le Ciel Africain, 2026).

  • Without cover: the hospital asks for a deposit before admission, and the medical flight is paid up front.
  • With the VIP Pack: the evacuation is decided and settled by Maximum (art. 6.2.2) — no advance, no cap.

SourcesLe Ciel Africain, 2026General conditions, policy 20 00 479

What should I do if hospitalised in Mali?

Six steps, in this order.

  • 1. Call +41 22 ••• •• •• before paying anything, or have the front desk call: it is the condition for full cover (otherwise: reduced or refused benefits).
  • 2. Ask for a hospital in the Maximum network (art. 6.9).
  • 3. See a doctor the same day and leave with the certificate: without an on-the-spot finding, nothing is covered (art. 33).
  • 4. Admitted for more than 24 h? The front desk calls Maximum: direct payment guarantee, no deposit (art. 2.12).
  • 5. Book no ambulance or flight yourself (art. 6.2.2).
  • 6. Once home, file within 30 days (art. 35.7).
  • Local emergency services: single number 112 · police 17 · ambulance 15 · fire 18.

SourcesSpecial conditions 01.26General conditions, policy 20 00 479

Which emergency numbers in Mali?

Local emergency services: single number 112 · police 17 · ambulance 15 · fire 18

  • Maximum, 24/7, before any payment: +41 22 ••• •• ••.
  • France — Ambassade de France (3.7 km) · +223 44 97 57 57
  • Switzerland — Swiss Cooperation Office and Consular Agency (3.0 km) · +223 20 21 73 62
  • United Kingdom — Ambassade de Grande-Bretagne (3.1 km) · +223 44 97 69 13
  • United States — Ambassade des États-Unis (5.3 km) · +223 20 70 23 00
  • Save these numbers before leaving; in immediate danger, call local emergency services first, then Maximum.

SourcesEmergencyNumberAPI · Wikidata · read 08.10OpenStreetMap · read 12.10

Is an Amex, Visa or Mastercard enough in Mali?

At today's level 4/4, card by card:

  • Amex Platinum — Your Amex Platinum expressly excludes this trip: the T&Cs rule out travel to countries your government has advised against visiting.
  • Visa — Your Visa may not cover here: the notice excludes the consequences of war, notorious political instability and terrorism — precisely the risks of an advised-against area.
  • Mastercard — Your Mastercard World Elite expressly excludes this trip: areas 'formally advised against' by the French foreign ministry are ruled out, assessed at departure date.
  • Three lines to read in your notice: the duration (often 90 days per trip), the settlement (reimbursement afterwards or direct payment of the hospital) and the area exclusion at level 4/4.

SourcesAmex Platinum France T&Cs, 01.2025 — general exclusion n° 11BNP Paribas Visa Infinite notice (policy PT7), 04.2025 — comFortuneo World Elite Mastercard notice, 01.2026 — art. 5.5 '

Are a health plan or a travel policy enough in Mali?

A health plan reimburses at home; here, the hospital asks for a payment guarantee before admission.

  • Health plan — A health plan treats you at home. Here the hospital asks for a guarantee before admission — not a later reimbursement.
  • Travel policy — The clause is a market standard: the reference policy excludes trips to areas 'formally advised against by government authorities' — at this level most classic policies no longer cover.
  • A travel policy often has a territorial clause at level 4/4 and a 90-day limit per trip.
  • Have your IPID number or the PDF of the terms and ask an expert to call you back: the answer is in the document, not in the brochure.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

How do I use the medical network on this page?

The page reads hospitals, pharmacies and doctors from OpenStreetMap, around the point you choose.

  • Type your city, hotel or beach: the map re-centres, 24/7 emergency rooms come first.
  • Each row gives the phone when the source publishes it, the nearest street, directions and the Google Maps listing.
  • The PDF briefing repeats the same places, numbered on a printable map.
  • No customer reviews: OpenStreetMap has none, and we invent none.

SourcesOpenStreetMap (ODbL) · read 12.10

Which vaccines and health precautions for Mali?

The sourced detail is under Medical network › Health: vaccines, diseases present, altitude, outbreaks.

  • CDC (Travelers' Health), depending on the trip: Routine vaccines, COVID-19, Chikungunya, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Measles.
  • France Diplomatie reports in the country: dengue, malaria, chikungunya — mosquito protection day and night.
  • See a doctor or a travel clinic 8 weeks before departure (Foreign Office).
  • Carry your medicines in their packaging, with a prescription using international non-proprietary names (France Diplomatie).

SourcesCDC Travelers' Health · read 09.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 16.10OMS · read 15.10Foreign Office · updated 10.07 · read 15.10

Can I be treated in Mali, or will I be evacuated?

0.2 physicians per 1,000 people (2023) versus 4.5 in Switzerland.

  • 0.2 hospital beds per 1,000 people versus 4.4 in Switzerland (World Bank).
  • With 0.2 physicians per 1,000 people (96% fewer than Switzerland), the nearest hospital does not always have the capacity for a serious case: evacuation to an adequate centre is the rule, not the exception — that is what unlimited evacuation and repatriation cover. Health spending of 34 USD per person (Switzerland: 11,784) goes with private hospitals that bill foreigners in hard currency and ask for a guarantee before admission: the direct payment guarantee is what avoids the deposit.
  • When the local facility is not enough, Maximum's medical team decides the evacuation to a suitable centre, and pays for it (art. 6.2.2).

SourcesWorld Bank · read 09.10General conditions, policy 20 00 479

Mali: safety, in figures?

Comparable figures (homicides, roads, incidents) are under Safety & risks › Incidents.

  • 22.7 road deaths per 100,000 people versus 2.2 in Switzerland (World Bank, WHO).
  • UCDP (Uppsala University): 162 geolocated violent incidents, 517 deaths over the last closed period, each placed on the map.
  • On the road, 10 times more deaths than in Switzerland: road crashes are the leading cause of death of healthy travellers (CDC) — seat belt, no night driving, a driver or a taxi from a rank.

SourcesWorld Bank (UNODC, WHO) · read 09.10UCDP

Where is my embassy in Mali, and why register?

The nearest representations, by passport (OpenStreetMap):

  • France — Ambassade de France (3.7 km) · +223 44 97 57 57
  • Switzerland — Swiss Cooperation Office and Consular Agency (3.0 km) · +223 20 21 73 62
  • United Kingdom — Ambassade de Grande-Bretagne (3.1 km) · +223 44 97 69 13
  • United States — Ambassade des États-Unis (5.3 km) · +223 20 70 23 00
  • Register before leaving: France: Ariane · Switzerland: Travel Admin · United Kingdom: Foreign Office alerts · United States: STEP.
  • Two minutes, and in a crisis your country's authorities can reach you and count you in an evacuation.
  • Pick your passport at the top of Contacts: your embassy comes first.

SourcesOpenStreetMap · read 12.10DFAE · updated 25.11 · read 15.10

Which regions of Mali should I avoid, precisely?

At least one official reading covers the whole country; no region is singled out.

  • Your point (Bamako): advised against — all travel.
  • Global Affairs Canada covers the whole country.
  • Foreign Office covers the whole country.
  • Maximum does not exclude these areas: the VIP Pack covers care and repatriation there (sanctions, embargoes and a country already at war at departure remain enforceable).

SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 09.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 10.07 · read 15.10France Diplomatie · updated 15.09 · read 16.10

Which laws and customs should I know in Mali?

Local laws apply to every traveller; here is what the official texts say.

  • Carry your original passport at all times as a foreign national to avoid difficulties during security checks.
  • Do not photograph military, government installations, or local people without explicit permission beforehand.
  • Homosexuality is illegal in Mali; the December 2024 Penal Code criminalises same-sex relationships with penalties up to seven years imprisonment and fines of 500,000 francs.
  • During Ramadan (expected to begin around February 7, 2027), do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public between sunrise and sunset, including in your car.
  • Dress conservatively and behave discreetly to respect Islamic practices; credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels, and ATM access is limited outside Bamako.

SourcesGlobal Affairs Canada · updated 09.10 · read 16.10Foreign Office · updated 10.07 · read 15.10

Who can I call at any hour from Mali?

Every foreign ministry runs a 24/7 emergency line for its nationals.

  • France — Crisis and Support Centre — French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: +33 1 53 59 11 00. 24/7 emergency line, standard rate. First contact abroad: the French embassy or consulate.
  • Switzerland — FDFA Helpline: +41 58 465 33 33 · +41 800 24 7 365. 24/7, 365 days a year — helpline@eda.admin.ch. Beware of scam calls spoofing these numbers.
  • United Kingdom — Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office: +44 20 7008 5000. 24 hours, for British nationals.
  • United States — Overseas Citizens Services — U.S. Department of State: +1 202 501 4444 · +1 888 407 4747. From abroad; the second number from the U.S. and Canada.
  • On site, Ambassade de France: +223 44 97 57 57.

Sourcesdiplomatie.gouv.fr · updated 15.09 · read 16.10eda.admin.ch · updated 25.11 · read 15.10

A few useful phrases in French for Mali?

Emergency phrases, to show if pronunciation fails:

  • Help! → Au secours !
  • Call an ambulance! → Appelez une ambulance !
  • I need a doctor. → J'ai besoin d'un médecin.
  • Where is the nearest hospital? → Où est l'hôpital le plus proche ?
  • Call the police! → Appelez la police !

SourcesMaximum Insurance

What should I keep after leaving Mali, and how do I file a claim?

Keep the entry stamp, the invoices, the prescriptions and the medical report.

  • File within 30 days (art. 35.7) from your client area, with the documents; the official forms are pre-filled.
  • Costs advanced on site are reimbursed against receipts.
  • Fever, persistent diarrhoea or a rash in the following weeks? See a doctor and say where you have been — dengue, malaria, chikungunya circulate in the country (France Diplomatie).

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

What does the Pack VIP Extreme add?

Cancellation or change up to EUR 20,000, special risk EUR 5,000 per person, crisis management and security, optional Kidnap & Ransom.

  • Special risk (Module A): political event, attack, epidemic, natural disaster — opens when the FDFA, the FOPH or WHO advise against the trip (art. 18.1).
  • Epidemic: assistance must be requested within 7 days of the WHO or FDFA qualification (art. 36.2).
  • Crisis management and security: trip registration, monitoring, extraction, evacuation in case of riot, war, terrorism or disaster; Kidnap & Ransom subject to eligibility (art. 18.4).
  • €2,290 a year, unlimited trips.

SourcesGeneral conditions, policy 20 00 479

A question not answered here? Ask Maximum below, or call the support number: every question gets a clear, actionable answer.

A question? Maximum answers.Answers built from the Mali file and your policy.

In a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services first, then Maximum: +41 22 ••• •• •• — 24/7 support number, an adviser stays with you to the end.

What Maximum knows

The 207 country pages — hospitals, pharmacies, police, embassies, emergency numbers, official advice from four governments, health, safety in figures, events in progress — read around the city you name. Your policy — benefits, the six steps, claims, articles. The site — prices, certificate, subscription. Nothing else: what it does not know, it says so and hands you to an adviser.

Travelling to Bamako: what changes

The published advisory level is national, but risk is not: business hubs (Bamako) do not share the profile of border areas. The medical network shown on this page is computed around Bamako — real hospitals, evacuation airport and live alerts. Before a specific trip, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.

Same advisory level: Russia · Central African Republic · Somalia · Sudan · South Sudan · Syria

Cross-check with official sources
U.S. State Department → UK FCDO → France Diplomatie → DFAE (Suisse) →

The displayed level comes from the State Department, checked every morning. Before departure, always cross-check your country of residence's advisory: that is what your policy cites.

The level shown is the official U.S. Department of State level, checked daily. Maximum Insurance is an insurance distributor — general information, not personal advice.

Travel covered to Mali
Get the Pack VIP — €990/yr Cover a team
Check my current cover in Mali

The destination is already Bamako. A few choices, then the reading of your cover, here.

Go further
Insured in an advised-against country →What a repatriation really costs →Who pays the hospital abroad →Where the United States, France and the United Kingdom disagree →An employee is hospitalised abroad: the sequence, seen from the company →Is an employer required to insure an employee on assignment abroad? →

All 13 files, together → · All 207 countries →