Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Mali: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
ATMs in Mali are the way to go, especially Ecobank in Bamako. The withdrawal charge is there, but the spread is tighter and you get more francs for your home currency. Airport desks should only be a backup; their exchange rate plus commissions make it an expensive start to your trip.
Just arrived and honestly, the airport exchange desk was a bit of a rip-off. ATMs at large banks gave me better rates, even with the 2-3,000 CFA withdrawal fee. Make sure to use well-known banks and avoid random machines at hotels or markets.
Best move in Mali is to use a major ATM in town - Ecobank near Hippodrome worked for me every time. The airport exchange was a last resort only for cab fare since their spread was bad and fees high. Stick with ATMs if you want more for your money.
In Bamako, Ecobank and Bank of Africa ATMs beat the airport exchange rates by a mile. The airport desk rate was way lower, plus they took a commission. My Visa withdrawal at the ATM came with a small flat fee but the exchange was way closer to the actual rate.