Mali Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for a visa at a Mali embassy or consulate before traveling.
Spanish citizens require a visa to visit Mali. Due to ongoing security concerns, travel to Mali is heavily advised against by most governments. If traveling, obtain a visa from the Malian embassy and check current security advisories carefully.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, visa obtained in advance, yellow fever vaccination certificate, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Fines, detention, and potential deportation.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Mali has significant security risks including terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping, and civil unrest. Most governments advise against all travel to Mali. The northern and central regions are particularly dangerous with active extremist groups. Even Bamako has experienced attacks. If travel is essential, use extreme caution, register with your embassy, and use professional security services.
Money & Costs
Currency
CFA West African CFA Franc (XOF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $40 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $150+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips for services are welcome when tourism operates normally.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, E, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
17 (Police), 18 (Fire), 15 (Ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Bamako (BKO) · Mopti (MZI)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
If traveling to Mali, the best time is from November to February when temperatures are cooler (20-35°C). Avoid the extreme heat of March to May (up to 45°C) and the rainy season (June-October). However, due to ongoing security concerns, most governments advise against all travel to Mali.
Cultural Notes
Mali has an incredibly rich cultural heritage as home to the ancient empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai. Timbuktu was a legendary center of learning. Traditional music featuring the kora, balafon, and ngoni has influenced global music. The Dogon people have fascinating astronomical knowledge and traditions. The Festival in the Desert showcased this heritage before security concerns forced its relocation.
Insider Tips
French is the official language. The West African CFA franc is the currency. Due to security concerns, normal tourism has largely ceased. If traveling, use only reputable tour operators with security experience, avoid all overland travel outside cities, and maintain a low profile. Have evacuation plans ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Mali?
Currently, most governments advise against all travel to Mali due to serious security risks including terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and civil unrest. The situation has deteriorated significantly, with active extremist groups in the north and center, and instability affecting the entire country. If travel is absolutely essential, consult your embassy, use professional security services, and register your presence.
Can I visit Timbuktu?
Travel to Timbuktu is extremely dangerous and strongly advised against. The region has been affected by extremist groups who have targeted tourists and destroyed historical sites. The legendary city's ancient manuscripts and mosques have been damaged. Before the security crisis, Timbuktu was accessible by road, boat, or flight from Bamako, but these routes are now considered very high risk.
What is the Dogon Country?
The Dogon Country in the Bandiagara Escarpment is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for cliff dwellings, unique culture, and fascinating traditions. The Dogon people are famous for their cosmology and astronomical knowledge. Before the security crisis, it was Mali's premier tourist destination with stunning landscapes and cultural immersion. Currently, travel to this region is extremely dangerous due to ongoing conflicts.
What happened to Mali's music festivals?
Mali was famous for music festivals like the Festival in the Desert near Timbuktu, which brought international artists together with traditional Tuareg and Malian musicians. Due to the security crisis, these festivals were suspended or relocated to other countries. Mali's musical heritage continues to influence global music, with artists like Tinariwen, Ali Farka Touré, and Salif Keita representing the country internationally.
What was Mali like for tourists before the crisis?
Before the security crisis began in 2012, Mali was one of West Africa's premier destinations. Visitors explored the legendary city of Timbuktu, the ancient mosques of Djenné (with the world's largest mud-brick building), the Dogon cliffs, and the vibrant capital Bamako. The Niger River offered boat journeys through stunning landscapes. Mali's music scene and cultural festivals attracted visitors worldwide.