Mali

Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world, is rich in mystery and majesty, offering some of Africa's most fascinating cultural sites and spectacular surreal scenery. The landlocked Republic is the largest country in West Africa, surrounded by seven other states and traversed, in its central and south-eastern sector, by the great Niger River.

The country's best known city is the fabled Timbuktu, in ancient times the powerful, wealthy centre of Mali's Mandinka Empire, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is in danger of being swallowed up by the desert sands. Mali's importance waned in the 16th century as the trans-Saharan caravan trading routes lost ground to European sea traders. Imperial power in Mali was replaced by French colonialism and ultimately, in 1960, independence, which has failed to bring prosperity. The Niger River is the centre of industry and commerce, vital for the livelihood of a nation whose people are overwhelmingly poor farmers and fishermen.

As Africa opens up to travellers, however, Mali is once again featuring large on the map, with its variety of unusual sights and experiences, from camel treks through stunning desert landscapes to hikes along the Bandiagara Escarpment where the Dogon people live, steeped in their unique mythology and art. In the medieval city of Djenne tourists marvel at the exquisite mosque, largest mud building in the world, and centre of the country's predominant Islamic faith. Even the modern capital, Bamako, offers exotic sights and sounds among its dusty streets, and several worthwhile museums. Many visitors opt for the lively town of Mopti, built on three islands, where the market is just bursting with arts and crafts and from whence river cruisers set out along the Niger.

The name Timbuktu has long been colloquially used in English and other languages to denote the epitome of nowhere. A trip to Mali today, however, is certainly not a dead end but an intriguing journey of discovery.

Climate

Mali's climate is hot and dry in the northern Sahara zone, north of the Niger River, and hot and humid in the subtropical south of the country. Rainfall varies throughout the country, varying from a virtual absence of rain in the desert north to a rainy season lasting for about five months from June to October in the south. The middle section of the country experiences rainfall between June and August. The dry season is from November to May, with cooler temperatures between November and February that becomes cold at night in the north. The most uncomfortable time to visit is from April to June, with extreme heat, and in December when the hot, dry Harmattan wind blows. Temperatures average 86°F (30°C).

Money

The official currency in Mali is the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is divided into 100 centimes. The CFA franc is tied to the Euro. Foreign currency and travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks in Bamako. French francs and euro are the easiest to exchange. Banks are closed on weekends. ATMs are only available in Bamako and only accept Visa cards. Major credit cards, usually Visa, are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in the capital, but credit cards in general are not widely used in Mali.

Passport Visa

Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Mali. In some cases, holders of a pre-arranged visa approval document can obtain a visa upon arrival. Visitors are encouraged to contact their nearest Malian embassy or consulate to confirm their visa/entry requirements. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Mali. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required (see note, below).

Health

All visitors to Mali are required to have a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. It is also recommended that precautions against meningitis (particularly if travelling between February and April), malaria and cholera be taken. Bottled water is available and food should be thoroughly cooked. Medical facilities are limited, especially outside of Bamako, and basic medicines might not be available. Travellers are advised to bring a personal supply of medicines with them. Comprehensive medical insurance is essential; serious medical problems will require air evacuation outside of the country.

Embassy Consulates

• Mali Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 332 2249.
• Mali Embassy, Brussels, Belgium (also responsible for Britain): +322 345 74 32.
• Mali Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 232 1501.
• Mali Embassy, Tokyo, Japan (also responsible for Australia): +81 3 5447 6881.
• Mali Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 7464.
• Mali Embassy, Tokyo, Japan (also responsibe for New Zealand): +81 3 5447 6881.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Bamako: +223 20 70 2300.
• British Embassy, Bamako: +223 2021 3412.
• Canadian Embassy, Bamako (also responsible for Australia): +223 20 21 2236.
• South African Embassy, Bamako: +223 20 29 2925.