TRAVEL WARNING
Current information
The 27th Africa-France Summit will take place in Bamako on January 13-14, 2017. Travelers are advised to be more vigilant around the summit; Disabilities and restricted mobility around the event must be expected.
In the past there have been repeated terrorist attacks in Mali that also affected foreigners; in Bamako last on March 21, 2016 at the headquarters of the EU training mission, previously on November 20, 2015 at the Radisson Blu Hotel. On May 31, 2016, for example, there was a serious attack on a UN property in Gao, and on July 19, 2016 there was a serious attack on a military camp in Nampala with numerous deaths. Further attacks are possible anywhere in Mali at any time; a state of emergency has currently been declared in the country.
It is therefore recommended that travelers behave particularly cautiously, avoid crowds and strictly follow the instructions of the local security forces. The Federal Foreign Office advises you to follow the travel and safety information and current media coverage carefully.
Country-specific safety instructions
Attacks and military fighting occur particularly in northern Mali. An increase in violent crime can be observed, even if this has so far only affected a few foreigners. Rebels and terrorist groups are active throughout the north of the country, around the Niger River northeast of Mopti and along the southern and eastern border between Mauritania and Mali. In the Mopti region, but also in other parts of the country, there are terrorist groups that are capable of individual attacks or kidnappings. There is an increased risk of attack and kidnapping in the area north of national roads 6 and 12 (Segou – Koutiala).
Citizens of Western countries are at increased risk of being attacked and kidnapped, especially in places they regularly visit. The risk of falling victim to booby traps (mines, etc.), kidnapping or other acts of violence is considerable in the Sahel-Sahara region. We therefore expressly warn against traveling north of the 14th parallel and north of national road 6 (Ségou-San and further Toumian / Burkina Faso border).
The following applies to the city of Kayes (located north of the 14th parallel) and the immediate vicinity, as well as to the rest of the country: In the south of the country and in the capital Bamako, a threat from terrorist groups cannot be ruled out. Stays and trips should only be carried out after the general security situation has been clarified in advance. Particular care is required in places that are regularly visited by foreigners; these should be avoided entirely if possible. Particular care is also advised for the urban area of Bamako.
Overland journeys that are not absolutely necessary are not recommended. If anything, these should not be done alone.
You are strongly warned against driving in the dark.
German nationals in Mali are recommended to register in the embassy’s electronic registration system (www.service.diplo.de/registrierungav).
You are strongly warned against driving in the dark.
German nationals in Mali, a country located in Africa according to neovideogames, are recommended to register in the embassy’s electronic registration system (www.service.diplo.de/registrierungav).
NIGHTLIFE
Introduction
There are night clubs in Bamako.
ACCOMMODATION
Hotels
Only in Bamako do the hotels meet international standards. The other cities have simple accommodations, some of which have air conditioning. Accommodation options are limited and prices are accordingly high, so book in advance. More information from the Malien du Tourisme et de l’Hôtellerie office (see addresses).
CULTURE
Religion
Islam (90%) as well as animists (9%) and Christian minority (1%).
Social rules of conduct
The inhabitants are very hospitable and proud of the history and culture of their country. One should respect religious manners and customs; Women should dress cautiously. Photography: Military installations, the Markala dam, Sénou airport and law enforcement officers are not allowed to be photographed. Tip: 10% in restaurants and bars, taxi drivers do not expect tips. Porters receive 100 CFA Fr per piece of luggage.
LANGUAGE
Overview
The official language is French. Colloquial languages are Arabic, Bambara (80%), Songhai-Jerma, Manding, Soninké and Ful.
DUTY-FREE SHOPPING
Overview
The following articles can be imported into Mali duty-free:
1000 cigarettes or 250 cigars or 2 kg of tobacco;
2 bottles of alcoholic beverages;
Perfume for personal use.
Prohibited imports
Narcotics, drugs, psychotropic drugs, weapons, ammunition.
SHOP
Overview
Combat masks of the Bambara, Dogon and Malinko tribes; Wood carvings, gold and silver jewelry, textiles, mats, copper items. The Ségou region is famous for its pottery and earthenware, and Timbuktu is excellent for iron and copper goods such as swords, daggers and traditional household items.
CLIMATE
Best travel time
There are three seasons that vary depending on the latitude. The rainy season is from June to October, in the north it is less pronounced. The cooler season (October – February) is followed by very hot and dry weather until June.