Kidal

Mali, Africa

Kidal, located in the Sahara of northern Mali, is renowned for its stunning desert landscapes and rich Tuareg culture. The area's unique rock formations and the nearby Ahaggar Mountains offer breathtaking views and invigorating hiking opportunities. Visitors can experience vibrant local markets and traditional music festivals that showcase the region's heritage. The warm hospitality of the Tuareg people adds to its charm, making Kidal an off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking adventure and authentic cultural immersion.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Other

Airport

Gao

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Kidal

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Kidal Mosque

Visit the stunning Kidal Mosque, a majestic symbol of local architecture and spirituality.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kidal Market

Experience local culture at the bustling Kidal Market.

No booking required
3

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Trek the Adrar des Ifoghas

Hike the stunning Adrar des Ifoghas mountain range.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Tuareg Music Festival

Immerse in vibrant Tuareg music and dance culture.

Booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tomb of Askia

Explore this historic UNESCO World Heritage site.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Local Crafts

Discover unique Tuareg handicrafts and traditional arts.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kidal Cultural Center

Learn about Tuareg history and culture at this center.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Bambara

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Tiguadege Na

Spicy peanut butter stew with meat. (National dish)

Maafe

Rich sauce with meat and vegetables.

Jollof Rice

Flavored rice dish with vegetables and meat.

Fakoye

VE

Fried dough balls, often served with sauce.

Couscous

VE

Steamed granules of wheat or millet.

Phrases to learn

English

Bambara

Hello

I ni ce

(Ee nee che)

Yes/No

Awo / Ayi

(Ah-wo / Ah-yee)

Thank you

I ni ce

(Ee nee che)

Excuse me

Hakɛ

(Hah-keh)

How much?

Dɔɔnin?

(Doh-oh-neen)