About
Mali is a landlocked country in West Africa, and it is known for its ancient empires and rich cultural traditions. Its history is closely tied to the legendary city of Timbuktu, which has long stood for the region's trade and learning in the imagination of travellers. The country is officially the Republic of Mali (République du Mali).
What a visit offers
Mali suits visitors who are drawn to history, music, and the everyday life of a country with deep traditions. Much of a trip is shaped by the sense of a long past still present in the culture around you, and by the variety of cultural expression across its regions.
- Timbuktu, the city most associated with Mali's ancient empires.
- Bamako, the capital and the largest city, a useful starting point for arriving and getting oriented.
- Cultural traditions that give the country much of its character, experienced through daily life and local expression.
Planning your trip
Because Mali is landlocked, reaching it usually means travelling overland or by air to Bamako first. Before you go, check current travel guidance for the country, as conditions can vary by region. Bamako makes a natural base from which to plan onward journeys, and travellers interested in Timbuktu will want to consider how they will reach it.
