Is there cellphone service or internet in Timbuktu and Gao?

Coverage is limited and variable. While you will have solid 4G/LTE connectivity in the capital Bamako and southern cities like Sikasso, the northern and central regions (including Timbuktu, Gao, and Mopti) have volatile security situations that often affect infrastructure. Signal may be available in city centers but expect frequent outages or weak connectivity in remote zones. We strongly advise downloading offline maps and having satellite backup for deep field missions.