Clothing and Accessories
Mali is usually somewhere between warm and hot. Lightweight breathable clothing is best regardless of the season. August is the wettest month, so if you are traveling June-Sept, it could be wise to bring a lightweight rain jacket, or at the very least, clothes that will dry quickly. Even during the wettest month, it is unlikely to rain for more than a few hours in a day. The dry season (Oct-May) is typically hotter, and if you are visiting the north during Dec-Feb, you will likely experience the Harmattan winds, so be prepared with clothes that you don’t mind getting dusty and a scarf to cover your face for particularly bad days.
The majority of Mali’s population is conservative Muslim, so in order to avoid standing out and to respect the local culture, it is best to avoid revealing clothing. Long pants are best for both men and women. T-shirts are acceptable, but long sleeves are generally preferable, particularly for females. Women should also consider wearing headscarves to avoid standing out. And conservative dress is absolutely required if visiting any religious sites.
It is advised to not wear anything too flashy (expensive watches or jewelry) whilst traveling in Mali. You do not want to stand out unnecessarily or make yourself a promising target for a potential robbery.
Footwear
You will likely be walking on rough dirt roads, so comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty (whether that be sneakers or sandals) are best. During the rainy season, flooding can be an issue, so if you have waterproof shoes you might consider bringing them.
Mosquito-Borne Illness Prevention
As with much of West Africa, there are many diseases that can potentially be spread through mosquitos. You should be prepared with whatever you need to feel comfortable, whether that be bug spray, or preventative medications.
A yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for entry into Mali, so be sure to bring proof of your vaccination with you.
Medicines
In Bamako, you can find pharmacies with some form of any urgent medications you might need, such as treatments for stomach issues, pain relief, or antibiotics. However, you will likely not find well-stocked pharmacies outside of the capital, so it is best to bring any medications you typically need with you.
Cash
While there are some ATMs in Bamako, card is not widely accepted at shops and restaurants. You will want to have some local cash.
