Group trips to Mali

Mali is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone. Mali does not observe daylight saving time, so the time difference remains constant throughout the year.

• If it is 12pm in the UK, it will also be 12pm in Mali.
• If it is 12pm on the East Coast of the USA, it will be 5pm in Mali.

The currency used in Mali is the West African CFA franc (XOF). The daily exchange rate can vary, but as a rough estimate:

• 1 GBP is approximately 750 XOF
• 1 USD is about 620 XOF
• 1 EUR is around 655 XOF

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels in major cities.

In Mali, you can use cash, credit cards, and mobile money services for payments.

• Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas, so it is a good idea to have some local currency on hand.
• Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and hotels, but it's best to check beforehand.
• Mobile money services like Orange Money are popular and convenient for transactions.

Make sure to notify your bank of your travel plans if you plan to use your credit card.

Tipping in Mali is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. If you feel like rewarding good service, here are some general guidelines:

• Restaurants: You can leave around 5-10 percent of the bill.
• Taxis: Rounding up the fare is a nice gesture.
• Hotels: Consider leaving a small amount for housekeeping.

Feel free to tip according to your satisfaction with the service.

In Mali, internet access can be a bit challenging, especially outside major cities. We suggest you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan for better coverage and connectivity. Providers like Orange Mali and Malitel have good options for travelers. Wi-Fi is available in some hotels, cafes, and restaurants in bigger cities like Bamako, but it may not be reliable or fast. Having a local SIM will ensure you stay connected during your travels.

In Mali, the official language is French. However, there are many local languages spoken throughout the country. One of the most widely spoken is Bambara. Here are some useful Bambara expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello - I ni ce
• Thank you - I ni che
• Please - Baara ka segin
• Yes - Owo
• No - Ayi

French is commonly used in formal settings, while Bambara and other local languages are prevalent in everyday communication.

In Mali, the power plugs and sockets are of type C and E, the same types used in most of Europe. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you're coming from countries where different plug types are used, like the UK or the USA, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be charged without any issues.

In Mali, the main religion is Islam, with the majority of the population practicing Sunni Islam. When visiting, especially in rural areas, it's respectful for women to dress modestly by covering their shoulders and wearing knee-length skirts or pants. During important religious holidays like Ramadan, you might notice changes in daily routines, as many locals fast from dawn to sunset.

When packing for Mali, it's important to consider the climate and cultural aspects. Here's a list to help you prepare your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
  • Cotton T-shirts
  • Comfortable trousers or long skirts
  • A light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings
  • A hat for sun protection
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for casual wear
  • Flip-flops for relaxing
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses
  • A universal travel adapter
  • A power bank
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
  • A reusable water bottle
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Any prescription medication
  • Over-the-counter meds like pain relievers and anti-diarrheal tablets

Mali has a warm climate, so pack light and breathable clothes. Be mindful of cultural norms by dressing modestly.

Mali generally has a hot and dry climate, but it varies by region:

• Northern Mali: This area is part of the Sahara Desert, so expect extremely hot temperatures and very little rainfall, especially in the summer months.
• Central Mali: Known as the Sahel region, it has a semi-arid climate with a rainy season from June to September, bringing short but intense rainfalls.
• Southern Mali: This region experiences a tropical savanna climate, with more consistent rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures, especially during the rainy season from May to October.

The best time to visit Mali is during the cooler and drier months from November to February, when temperatures are more manageable and rain is less likely.