Do not travel
to Mali for any reason. Due to safety risks, family members cannot join U.S. government employees who work in Mali.
Crime
Violent crime is common throughout Mali. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.
- Violent crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during local holidays and seasonal events.
- Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country.
- In cities, police checkpoints are possible, especially at night.
- Highways across the country often face attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.
Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mali. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.
Terrorists may attack without warning:
- Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
- Night clubs
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Places of worship
- International diplomatic missions
- Local security forces and civilians
Kidnapping
- The threat of kidnapping of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals by criminal or terrorist groups remains high throughout the region. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are significant sources of financing for terrorist and criminal groups.
Unrest
- Periodic street demonstrations occur throughout Mali. Although some are planned and peaceful, demonstrations can occur without notice and turn violent. The majority of these demonstrations are managed by security forces, but U.S. citizens should avoid street demonstrations. Always stay aware of your surroundings.
Armed Conflict
- Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country. These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian government and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties.
Air Travel
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Mali. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.
Health
Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
- Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
- Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
- Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
- Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.
- Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.
U.S. government employee travel restrictions
- U.S. government employees working in Mali are not allowed to travel outside of Bamako due to safety risks. Due to the potential for terrorist attacks the U.S. embassy has implemented enhanced security measures.
- U.S. citizens in Mali should carefully review their own security preparedness.
