Safety in Mauritania
 

:helpsmilie:My partner and I are travelling overland in our truck in Western sahara and plan to head down into Mauritania.
I don't feel very safe about travelling down there. Are there any women out there who can tell me if they have travelled overland with or without a man and what it's like?
Whats it really feel like? Did you feel or experience any threats?

Are the police as corrupt as we hear? Is there danger of kidnappings or robberies?
I come from Australia, have done lots of overland travelling but I reckon I'd rather be travelling thru our own awesome desert in oz than have to endure bastards with guns or anyone that will threaten my safety. Any feedback would be gratefully appreciated.
Happy travels
Rensina

NW Africa
 

Hi Rensina
I can't comment on the current situation, as it was 2005 when I crossed Mauritania, Senegal, Mali to get to Timbuctoo and back again but I know Dennis Robinson and his Scooters in the Sahara group are heading back down that way again in March (his third journey I think). Maybe find out his thoughts.

There are dangers everywhere in the world, but I have to say that my personal opinion is that travelling as a female in Muslim and isolated countries it has worked in my favour, as there is a level of respect automatically given to you if you show respect for local customs such as the way you dress and behave (which is quite straightforward). People seem to feel less threatened by females.
Although I had a bloke travelling with me, he hadn't done any bike travel before and he didn't speak any French so I did almost all the communicating.
there are certain sleazy behaviours to be wary of, but that's the same anywhere. You'll also come across the most blatant corruption I've ever seen at border posts. It's the usual stuff about dealing with bribes - there are those who do and those who don't...make your choice on that one.
You'll find other travellers on the road as you head south and might feel happier teaming up with them for some sections.

it sounds great - when do you set off?

best wishes
Tiffany

Common sense
 

Hi

We're also planning an africa trip, we'll be travelling through Mauritania and West Africa, leaving Europe on 2 ex army bikes in September - there'll be me and my husband. We haven't travelled in Africa before so thank you for the words of reassurance there Tiffany. I totally agree with you that the way you dress and behave will make a big difference in how you are treated. I also think a smile goes a long way :)

Gemma