The FCDO has changed its travel advice due to unpredictable security conditions
James Rodger Content Editor
09:25, 20 Mar 2026
Foreign Office warns all UK tourists to ‘leave immediately’ on next flight
The Foreign Office has updated its travel guidance for yet another nation, now cautioning against ALL travel to the destination. The FCDO revised its advice for Mali on Thursday, March 19, publishing fresh “information about risks of terrorism” on its ‘Warning and insurance’ page.
The guidance for the country states: “FCDO advises against all travel to the whole of the Mali due to the unpredictable security conditions. If you’re in Mali, you should leave immediately by commercial flight if you judge it safe to do so.
“The international airport in Bamako is open, and commercial flights are available. Do not try to leave Mali by overland routes to neighbouring countries as this is too dangerous. This is due to terrorist attacks along national highways.
“Terrorist group Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) has implemented blockades on key routes throughout Southern and Western Mali, including the capital city of Bamako.
“These blockades are targeting fuel trucks and are enforcing checkpoints for individuals attempting to pass through them. Attacks can occur at any time.”, reports Birmingham Live.
“There is a high threat of kidnapping and criminal activity across Mali, including in the capital city, Bamako.
“If you choose to remain in Mali, you do so at your own risk. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government.
“For more detail see Fuel shortages and Terrorism in Mali in the Safety and security page.
“If you are a British national already in Mali, either resident or visitor, carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying.”
Regarding the terrorism threat, the FCDO continued: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack across Mali.
“Take particular care during elections and public holidays, and periods of national or religious significance.”