Timbuctu to Araouane by Camel !

[Spez]

Hi folks,

I realise this is mostly a motor bike site but I also know that some extremley well seasoned desert travellers use it, regardless of there chosen means of transport. so here's hoping... !

The plan is to travel by camel from Timbuctu to Araouane and back for a Malian charity, hopefully in November/December 2009. I've done some desert travelling with camels before but this, if it happens, will be the longest journey yet. The intended route is directly North from Timbuctu to Araouane, via Sidi Moktar coming back along the Eastern route via Bou Djebha. If any one has done this trip perhaps they can help, what I need to know is ;

• Approximately how long should the trip take?

• Approximately how much should I expect to pay the guide?

• Can anyone recommend an English speaking Tuareg guide?

All info gratefully appreciated….

Many Thanks,

S.

[detnol]

For a good guide contact the following tourist agent in Tombouctou:

Mr. Azima (speaks english and comes highly recommended)
tel (home): 00 223 292 23 59
tel (mobile): 00 223 602 35 47

[Spez]

Thanks detnol, I'll give him a call. Have you made the journey to Arouane yourself ?

S.

[detnol]

Never been there. But at least ten times to Tombouctou!

[chickcharnie]

Hi there

I was in timbuctu 2 years ago and used a local guide. I do not know if he would be suitable for the camel trip north, but he might be able to help

his email is abdoulayealitunine@yahoo.fr

Have a great trip - it is one i want to do in the near future

Regards

John clark