costs, camels and guides
 

I'm thinking I'd like to travel for a few months in Mauritania, Mali, Niger and possibly Algeria travelling by camel. Besides the obvious concerns, I could really use an idea of costs. I'm afraid I have little money. Any idea about the price of a good riding camel, hiring a guide, etc.? Any help here would be appreciated. Thanks.

I think your lack of funds will make things difficult for you. Having said that its alot cheaper than hiring / running a 4x4

In Algeria (Mertoutek) you can hire a camel for about 10 GBP per day. Obviously the longer you take one the better deal you'll get. Fantastic location and beautiful camels.

If you wanted to organise things in advance, you could try Claudia at agence Tarahist in Tamanrasset. She and her husband offer a slick operation.

Perhaps read "The fearful Void" - G Moorhouse and "Two Against the Sahara" M Asher if you want a taste of the realities of travel on a camel.

Hi,
in Atar, Mauretania, there is a campground named Bab Sahara. The owners seen to be nice people who run tours. Perhaps you ask them.
(He is dutch and she is german)

Just Buma

Address: Bab Sahara, B.P. 59, Atar, R.I.M. Tel: 00222- 764 603 Fax 00222- 764 605

Chiao
Marc

I dont think you can do it with very little money. Good camels are expensivre and valuable out there.
I've received a lot of camel info recently for and can tell you for a few months travel it will be a few thousand dollars to run a some cams (buying is better, long term). And wandering from one country to another is not so simple.
Better to do a few weeks in one country, renting a camel and guide etc to see if you like it.
Mauritania is a good good start (eg Atar to Tidjikja - read: Peter Hudson 'Travels in Mauritania') not as touristy as Alg or Niger (unless you know them well) and more interesting than Mali (away from the Adrar des Iforhas). Or try Sudan.


Ch