The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning advising against all travel due to unpredictable security conditions
James Rodger Content Editor
12:35, 13 Apr 2026
Foreign Office tells UK tourists ‘leave immediately’ and warns against ‘all’ travel
The Foreign Office issued a significant update on Monday, advising against ALL travel to Mali. The FCDO has published “updated” guidance regarding Mali, while removing information about terrorism threats.
However, on its ‘Warning and insurance’ section for Mali, the FCDO states: “Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).”
It confirms that the FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Mali, despite removing the terror risk details. The FCDO explains: “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,” reports Birmingham Live.
“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.
“There is a high threat of kidnapping and criminal activity across Mali, including in the capital, 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.”
The FCDO adds: “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.”
