Public Transportation in Mali
Mali’s public transport system is very basic. Buses and minibusses (called “Sotrama”) are the main options. They don’t follow strict schedules and are often old, overcrowded, and uncomfortable. Sotrama vehicles can be unreliable, but they’re very cheap and cover large parts of Bamako, the capital.
Fares are usually between 100 and 300 CFA Francs (about $0.20 to $0.50 USD). However, it is important to remember that the buses can take a long time due to traffic and frequent stops. So, avoid them if you are in a hurry or traveling with a lot of luggage.
Taxis in Mali
Taxis are the most common and convenient form of transport in Mali’s cities. Bamako, in particular, has plenty of taxis available. Official taxis are painted yellow, but some unofficial taxis operate as well. Be cautious with the unofficial ones, as they may overcharge or be poorly maintained.
You’ll need to negotiate the fare before getting in. There are no meters, so haggling is expected. As a foreigner, expect quotes higher than what locals pay. On average, a typical ride within Bamako should cost between 1000 and 3000 CFA Francs ($1.75 to $5.25 USD).
For your safety, avoid taxis late at night unless you know the area well. During daylight hours, taxis are relatively safe, but always lock the doors and keep an eye on your belongings.
Rideshare Services
Rideshare services like Uber or Bolt aren’t available in Mali yet. However, there are local alternatives like “Heetch” and “Bamako Taxi.” It’s important to note that these services are less widely used than in Western countries, so don’t rely on them completely.
You’ll need a working phone and a good internet connection, which can be an issue in some places. Heetch is a little more reliable than hailing a street taxi and offers a bit more comfort, but it’s still a relatively new service. Expect the cost to be slightly higher—between 2000 and 4000 CFA Francs ($3.50 to $7 USD) per ride.
Renting a Car in Mali
How to Rent a Car
Car rentals are available in Bamako and at the international airport, but they aren’t very common. Not all rental companies are reliable, so make sure to book with well-known brands. Companies like Avis or Hertz may have a presence here, but smaller local agencies may offer lower prices.
You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP), and most rental agencies will require a credit card for the deposit. Prices can range between 40,000 to 80,000 CFA Francs per day ($70 to $140 USD) depending on the vehicle.
Conditions for Driving
Driving in Mali is not for the faint-hearted. Roads, especially outside Bamako, are often poorly maintained. Potholes are common, and road signs may be missing or damaged. Driving at night is dangerous because of a lack of streetlights and reckless driving by others.
Local drivers often disregard traffic rules, and it’s common to see overloaded vehicles or animals wandering onto the road. In cities like Bamako, traffic can be chaotic, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in developing countries, you may want to avoid renting a car completely.
Tips for Getting Around Mali
When you’re traveling around Mali, safety should be your main concern. Stick to well-known routes and avoid traveling at night, especially in rural areas. Always check the condition of any vehicle you’re using, whether it’s a bus, taxi, or rental car.
Cash is still king in Mali, so be sure to have enough small bills with you to cover taxi fares or bus rides. It’s also a good idea to ask for price ranges before arriving and consult local hotels or guesthouses for travel recommendations.
While transportation in Mali isn’t glamorous, it gets you from point A to point B. Just take precautions, keep your wits about you, and you’ll be fine!
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