The Basics
Country: Mali
Where is it?: Mali is southwest of Algeria in northern Africa
Why do people go here?: Although home to the legendary Timbuktu, Mali has many other sites to offer the intrepid travel. From Dogon Country to ancient, medieval towns and archeological wonders, Mali has more than meets the eye.
What are the main entry points?: European flights come into Bamako, with a few smaller airlines flying into Gao or Timbuktu. You can travel overland into Mali, but you however avoid entering from Algeria.
Currency used: West African Franc
Country Code for Phones: 223
Religion: Muslim 90%, Christian 5%, and Indigenous 5%
Population: 13 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Mande 50%, Fulani 17%, Voltaic 12%, Songhai 6%
Government: Semi-presidential Republic
Languages: French, Bambara, Indigenous
Travel Information
Major Cities: Bamako, Gao
Attractions: Djenne, Dogon Country, Gao
Accommodation: Mali Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Mali Embassy
Tips for Visiting
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Timbuktu, Segou
Health Issues: Malaria
When to go: October through February are the best times to visit Mali.
Common Phrases: Hello = Bonjour, How are you? = Comment allez-vous?, Good = Bien or Bon, Yes = Oui, Okay = D’accord or OK, No = Non, Thank you = Merci, Please = S’il vous plait, Goodbye = Au revoir
Specific Events/Holidays: Army Day: January 20, Africa Day: May 1, May 25, Independence Day: September 22, Various Islamic Holidays
Getting Around: Private tourist-like buses travel between major destinations.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Mali is the Bamako Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Mali travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
