Things to Do in Mali

About Mali

Where the Sahara's golden dunes meet the life-giving Niger River, Mali unfolds as a tapestry of ancient empires and enduring traditions. This is the heartland of West African civilization, where the legendary cities of Timbuktu and Djenné once commanded vast trade routes carrying gold, salt, and knowledge across continents. Today, the call to prayer echoes from mud-brick mosques that have stood for centuries, while griots still weave historical tales through haunting melodies. In bustling markets, the air thrums with Bambara, French, and Arabic voices bargaining over vibrant textiles and aromatic spices. The rhythm of life here follows ancient patterns—sunrise prayers, afternoon tea ceremonies, and evenings filled with storytelling under star-scattered skies. Mali invites you to journey beyond tourism into transformation, where every encounter with its proud people reveals layers of wisdom carved by time and resilience forged by the desert winds.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Travel between cities via reliable bus companies like Bani Transport or Bittar. For shorter distances, shared taxis (bush taxis) are economical but cramped. In Bamako, green taxis are metered; negotiate prices for longer journeys. Avoid travel during rainy season on unpaved roads.

Money: Mali uses West African CFA francs (XOF). Bring euros or US dollars to exchange at banks or authorized dealers. ATMs exist mainly in Bamako and major towns but often run dry. Cash is essential—cards rarely accepted outside upscale hotels.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially at mosques. Always ask permission before photographing people. Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques. Use your right hand for greetings and eating. Friday prayers are sacred—avoid scheduling meetings then.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice. Eat at busy local restaurants with high turnover for freshest food. Try national dishes like jollof rice and grilled meat from reputable vendors. Avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.

When to Visit

Mali's optimal travel window spans November through February, when temperatures hover between 70-85°F (21-29°C) and humidity remains low. This peak dry season sees accommodation prices increase 40-50%, but the comfortable weather justifies the expense. March through May brings intense heat exceeding 100°F (38°C), though prices drop 30% and crowds thin—ideal for budget-conscious travelers who can handle extreme temperatures. The rainy season (June-October) transforms the landscape into lush greenery, with temperatures cooling to 80-90°F (27-32°C), but expect 15-40 inches of rainfall that can disrupt transportation. Accommodation costs plummet 50% during this period. Key festivals include the Festival au Désert (January, celebrating Tuareg culture), Djenné's Monday Market (year-round but most vibrant during dry season), and various harvest celebrations (September-October). Photography enthusiasts should visit during late dry season (February-March) for dramatic light and clear skies. Cultural immersion seekers might prefer the rainy season when communities gather for traditional ceremonies, despite travel challenges.