To Taoudenni by Camel
 

I travelled to Taoudenni from Timbuktu and return by camel (again) in November 2005. It was a great trip. I again used the services of Dramane Alpha (Hotel Hendrina Khan, Timbuktu)to appoint my guide, as indicated in my written contribution in Sahara Overland (2nd Edition). The price was CFA650000, as expected.

This time however, Dramane Alpha also charged me a EURO1000.00 Permit Fee It was supposed to contribute to security costs, and if I did not pay, I could not go. No paperwork. No one else I have heard of has had to pay the fee.

On the strength of this Permit Fee, I can no longer recommend that travellers go to him to organise such expeditions.

Do you know of any alternative fixers who can arrange the trip?

Hmmmm... I would organise another trip -it would be throug a guy called Hamada Diakite (hamada_diakite@yahoo.fr), who can be found through the Hotel Bouctou. He knowas a couple of relaibale guides, but would not be very experienced at brokering a deal for az trip. However, he did accompany me to Taoudenni as a translator, speaks quite reasonable English, and does know what is involved in the trip. If you are serious about the possibility of such a trip, email me at a_bestow@hotmail.com I am just about to leave for Bilma so I wont be able to reply immediately. Ciao.