Mali Travel Information
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When to Go to Mali
To get the most out of your next adventure it makes sense to consider some of the very local factors that combine to make up what you feel is the best time to travel to a destination. Many of these factors are very personal - some people prefer to travel when the weather is not too hot, or sites too crowded - others prefer to travel when a traditional local event is taking place. Taking into account the dates of public holidays can also make sense as these may have an impact on opening times of attractions, shops and restaurants, or might affect public transport or other services. Conversely public holidays can be a time of great local festivities and celebrations providing a feast of local expressionism and culture.
Climate
The climate of Mali is split into distinct wet and dry seasons and varies considerably from north to south with arid desert conditions in the north (part of the Sahara) and wetter conditions in the south of the country. In the more populated southern part of the country, savannah with tall grasses is common, giving way to Sahel then Sahara.
Winters months are dry and perfect for travel. Summers are rainy. Rains arrive first, and in greater amounts, in the south, and later in much smaller amounts in the north. However, rainfall is not very dependable. When it does rain, it often comes in torrential downpours. During the dry winter season, days are generally in the mid-70s F. At night it can get extremely cold. During the April to June dry season, daytime temperatures become much hotter, often surpassing 90°F, as hot, dry winds blow from the northeast. These winds are known as the harmattan. They are followed by the wet season, when daytime temperatures become slightly cooler, usually in the mid-80s F.
Seasonality
The best time of the year for travellers to visit Mali is during the dry winter months between October and April. Christmas and New Year are particularly busy periods with many French travellers descending on Mali for some warm winter sunshine. Services, accommodation and facilities are often stretched as a result. Bear this in mind if considering travelling during this peak period.
National Holidays
| Date |
Description |
| 01 May 08 |
Labour Day |
| 25 May 08 |
Africa Day |
| 22 Sep 08 |
National Day |
| 01 Oct 08 |
End of Ramadan |
| 08 Dec 08 |
Tabaslo - Muslim Feast of Sacrifice |
| 25 Dec 08 |
Christmas Day |
| 01 Jan 09 |
New Year's Day |
| 20 Jan 09 |
Armed Forces Day |
