Heading to Mali? As an exciting destination, it's renowned for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. Our travel cost guide will help you plan an epic vacation without overspending. We've got all the essentials, from average hotel rates to dining and entertainment costs. All of the travel expenses are from real travelers, so you can travel smart and have an amazing trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Mali?
You should plan to spend around $39 (CFA23,595) per day on your vacation in Mali. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $15 (CFA9,093) on meals
- $3.71 (CFA2,268) on local transportation
- $30 (CFA18,306) on hotels
A one week trip to Mali for two people costs, on average, $540 (CFA330,330). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$270
CFA165,165
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$540
CFA330,330
-
One Month
Per person
$1,157
CFA707,850
-
One Week
For a couple
$540
CFA330,330
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$1,080
CFA660,660
-
One Month
For a couple
$2,315
CFA1,415,700
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Mali cost?
A one week trip to Mali usually costs around $270 (CFA165,165) for one person and $540 (CFA330,330) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Mali on average costs around $540 (CFA330,330) for one person and $1,080 (CFA660,660) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Mali will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Mali on average costs around $1,157 (CFA707,850) for one person and $2,315 (CFA1,415,700) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Mali expensive to visit?
Mali is a very affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 10% of countries in the world for its affordability. Many budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring this country in depth.
Within Africa, Mali is very affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in Africa for its affordability. Very few countries in the region are as affordable as Mali.
From budget-friendly stays to high-end hotels, Mali has something to offer every traveler with different spending habits and travel preferences. For travelers on a budget, there are affordable hotels, while those seeking luxury can enjoy high-end stays, with mid-range hotels also available for couples and families.
Mali has a reputation for being expensive, but there are simple ways to make it affordable, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $23 (CFA13,935) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $39 (CFA23,595) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $72 (CFA43,350) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Mali.
For more details, see Is Mali Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Mali?
The average Mali trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Mali travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Mali cost?
Mali on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$13
(CFA7,848)
|
$15
(CFA9,153)
|
$19
(CFA11,619)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$1.41
(CFA865)
|
$3.71
(CFA2,268)
|
$10
(CFA6,186)
|
|
Food 2
|
$6.46
(CFA3,953)
|
$15
(CFA9,093)
|
$29
(CFA17,739)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$3.58
(CFA2,188)
|
$9.52
(CFA5,825)
|
$27
(CFA16,386)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$0-1
(CFA236-708)
|
$1-3
(CFA533-1,598)
|
$2-5
(CFA977-2,930)
|
Dogon Girl, Mali
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations when it comes to your budget is crucial. A lot of people claim to be "budget" travelers. Many plan their trip thinking they can manage on just $23 a day like a shoestring backpacker. But the truth is, most aren't comfortable with roughing it on a trip. Reflect on what you truly enjoy and how you've traveled in the past. Are you a fan of resorts and comfortable hotels, or do you prefer the price range offered by hostels but with limited amenities? How important is dining in nice restaurants to you? And how do you like to get around? Your answers will greatly influence your overall travel budget.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit Mali for $23 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Most visitors to Mali will want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $39 per person, per day.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If your dream trip includes all the bells and whistles, be ready for a cost of about $72 per day. Opting for upscale hotels, fine dining at renowned eateries, splurging on unique experiences, and having private drivers will place you in the luxury travel range. You can rub shoulders with other luxury travelers in places like the major cities and resort areas.
Accommodation Budget in Mali
You'll find a surprising range of accommodation prices in Mali, from budget to high-end options. During peak season, prices increase, but visiting during the low or shoulder seasons can help. Booking early is another great way to save some cash.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Mali for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $30 (CFA18,306). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $15 (CFA9,153) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Mali? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Mali
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $3.71 (CFA2,268) per person, per day, on local transportation in Mali. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Mali is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$3.71
CFA2,268
If you're in Mali, you'll find that public transportation is quite limited. It's probably a good idea to rent a car or organize some form of transportation ahead of time, like a tour or taxi service. However, this could reduce your overall trip budget.
Listed below are some transit expenses in Mali, taken from reports by other travelers. These costs offer a snapshot of transportation prices in the city to give you an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that your costs may differ, especially if you opt for more expensive options like taxis, which typically cost more than public transportation.
-
Taxi
CFA2,000
-
Short Taxi Ride
CFA3,000
Food Budget in Mali
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Mali can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Mali is $15 (CFA9,093) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$15
CFA9,093
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Mali is around $15 (CFA9093) per person, with previous travelers spending from $7 to $29. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Mali are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $5
- Lunch: $2 to $8
- Dinner: $5 to $12
- Coffee: $1
- Fast Food or Street Food: $2
Food throughout West Africa tends to be comparable in style. Malian food is heavy on the starches and carbohydrates, and light on the meats. You'll find the greatest diversity of restaurants in Bamako where you can enjoy anything from Chinese to Lebanese, all for substantially higher prices. Snack options are usually bread type products that are often deep fried. Fruit is available when it is in season and you'll find the greatest fruit selection in Mopti, as it sits on the Niger River at a transportation hub.
Jollof Rice: This is a common West African rice dish that combines tomatoes, onions, and vegetables into a stew like meal. It's a hearty meal and is available in most restaurants.
Maafe: This is a popular stew like dish made with a meat such as lamb or chicken and a peanut based sauce. The peanut sauce is often seasoned with spices and cooked for long periods of time. This dish is available in most restaurants and is a favorite for many travelers who visit Mali.
Couscous: West African couscous is actually a finer version of this Middle Eastern classic. It is more sandy in nature and is often served with vegetables or a meat sauce on top. It's a common option when you're trekking through the Dogon Country area. Some people consider it a little gritty, but it is always available and generally reliable.
Traveling with kids? Check for restaurants that offer a childrens menu. It's a smart way to save money, as these meals are often more reasonably priced. And remember, some eateries don't advertise their kids' options, so asking the waiter is a good idea.
Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, but some charge extra for this service. Prices and quality can vary based on the hotel. Being informed in advance can help you decide whether to indulge in a lavish hotel buffet or simply visit a nearby bakery or café that may offer cheaper options.
Choose to carry a water bottle instead of constantly purchasing drinks. It's a win for both your wallet and the environment.
When arranging for a tour, be sure to confirm which meals are included ahead of time. There may be some meals you'll need to pay for yourself, which could add to your overall costs.
Food and meal prices in Mali, based on real travelers' reported expenses, are shown below. These typical costs can give you a sense of the overall price range for meals. However, your individual expenses might be different depending on your dining habits, restaurant choices, and specific orders.
-
Melon
CFA100
-
Fruit
CFA350
-
Snacks
CFA500
-
Sodas
CFA500
-
Sodas
CFA500
-
Watermelon
CFA800
-
Fruit
CFA1,000
-
Kola Nuts
CFA1,000
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Mali
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Mali typically cost an average of $9.52 (CFA5,825) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$9.52
CFA5,825
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Mali. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Sightseeing Sélingué and surroundings for $159 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Mali are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Mali
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $1.74 (CFA1,066) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Mali per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$1.74
CFA1,066
Hitting the town is a blast, but easing up on drinks can have a positive impact on your budget.
Traveling in Mali
Dogon Village, Mali
Mali is a large and diverse country in West Africa. It's a landlocked country that is bordered by Senegal, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Niger, Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea, and Mauritania. It's a very diverse country that is rich in sights and culture. In the eastern part of the country is the Sahara Desert and the Niger River. There's a traditional nomadic culture that still thrives and prospers in these areas. You'll also find the fabled city of Timbuktu, which attracts many tourists due to its far flung location. Less visited, but possibly more interesting is the city of Gao, which sits on the edge of the Niger River. It's in close proximity to beautiful sand dunes, and is a uniquely fascinating place to visit. In the western parts of the country you'll find a strong Muslim population, mud mosques, and a rich culture. There are a variety of towns with outstanding weekly markets where you can interact with the locals and enjoy the atmosphere of daily life in Africa. You can trek through the beautiful Dogon Country and see village life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Mali offers a unique view into Africa. What it lacks in wildlife it more than makes up for in culture. Allow plenty of time for mishaps and unscheduled stops, but take them with ease, as they're all part of the adventure.
While Mali is one of the poorest countries on earth, it is surprisingly more expensive to visit than you might expect. The currency is locked to the euro and many prices seem artificially elevated. There are very few hotels in most places and those that exist are high in price for a low quality room. Food can range in price, but often times meals are small in size. This is particularly true with meat dishes and it is often recommended that you order vegetarian options as they are more filling for a fraction of the cost. Transportation is also surprisingly expensive. Coach style buses are usually your best option and prices are fixed and rarely negotiable. In many cases it is beneficial to purchase tickets in advance to ensure you have a seat on the bus.
At A Glance
- Although transportation is smoother and more comfortable than in Senegal, it is still very slow moving. Expect delays, poor road conditions, and overcrowded buses. Still, public transportation is an easy way to get around most of Mali as buses connect most cities and towns.
- Many people fly in to Mopti and do a tour of Dogon Country before leaving. There is so much more to Mali beyond this popular area. Give yourself several weeks and you'll be able to see so much more, from the Sahara Desert to village life along the Niger. This is a fascinating and culturally rich country.
- If you're in a town that is not a popular tourist destination you're likely to have a difficult time finding a good restaurant. Most Malians do not eat out so restaurants can be few and far between. Instead, stock up on fresh fruit and produce. Buy some bread and do your best to create a makeshift vegetarian meal. This may be your best option.
- Bring a knife with you. You'll likely need it to cut up fruit or open cans. Having a makeshift tool with you can really be beneficial and convenient. A small and simple pocket knife is usually the best option.
- Internet is available in most tourist destinations. There is usually at least one internet cafe and many hotels have wireless internet available. If you link in to the wireless internet you'll likely have to pay a daily fee of a few dollars, but for some people the convenience is worth the added cost.
Related:
Looking for a hostel in Marrakesh, Cape Town, Nairobi, or Zanzibar?
Top Tourist Attractions
Dogon Country: This is one of the top travel destinations in Mali. Many visitors choose to spend several days trekking through this beautiful and unique part of Africa. The area is known for its traditional Dogon Villages which continue to function the way they have for centuries. There are weekly markets in many towns which can be a fascinating time to visit.
Djenne's Mud Mosque: This is the largest mud mosque in the world and it's best visited on a Friday when you can see services in full swing. Djenne also plays host to a weekly market when villagers from around the countryside flock to the city to buy and sell their goods.
Timbuktu: Perhaps one of the most famed destinations in Mali, Timbuktu has long been romanticized by many travelers. Many choose to make the long trek to this legendary town that sits far out in the Sahara Desert.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.