Galtat Zemour to Bir Moghrein??

[budapestbamako]

Has anyone info on this route? Has anyone done it?

[Chris Scott]

It's gets asked here once in a while - have a search.
If we could we'd all be going that way instead of down the Atlantic route but the Moroccans won't let you anywhere near the berm at GZ. And beyond is Polisario territory with its own problems.

See: Sahara Overland ~ Trans Sahara Routes

Ch

[budapestbamako]

i've done some research on this on your forum and haven't seen any recent info.

i guess it's a question of getting through the bern and securing the route by the rebels. the dakar manages it every year, so i guess it has to be possible.

btw, i'm a big fan of your book.

[Chris Scott]

the dakar manages it every year, so i guess it has to be possible.

Of course it is technically possible but so are many less troubled borders like Mk-Alg, Alg-Lib, Nig-Lib (sort of) and Alg-Mori etc. We cant cross there either.

And now that the Dak seems finished in the Sahara, GZ-BM is even less likely to open up. It is the anti-Polisario Moroccans who make the restriction. The Mauritanians are not so bothered. I suppose it is no great diversion to try it next time you are passing though area. Let us know how far you get...

Ch

[Luis]

Crossing from Galtat Zemour to Bir Mogrein is impossible, the Morocco army doesn't allow it at all. The other way is possible, Mauritanian army let you pass, but very difficult to proceed some kms ahead since the Polisario have established a permanent barrac in the middle of the track.

About the Dakar track, it really doen't pass at GZ - Bir, but at the north border (Smara - Amgala - Bir).

This was the situation in February 2006 but it seems it remains the same. I have a friend that will pass at GZ next week, I'm gonna ask them to check the situation there, however the situation should be checked at Bir, since at GZ for sure it remains the same.