bamako-Nouakchott
 

Hi, we are driving back to Europe with an old VW Van, what's the best way to get into Mauretania from Mali?

Hi,
I did Nouakchott-Bamako in October 2000 with a motorcycle. Hiway from Nouakchott to Nema is paved, at times very good, at time terrible with many potholes (perhaps improved by now). From Nema south on sandy piste, unmarked, but easy to find. In Nara sign out of Mali. Road from Bamako to Nara good gravel. Cross border to Adel Bagrou; sign in for Mauritania. Fuel in Nara and in Adel Bagrou.
I did this in the dry season. Deep sand in places on the piste, but with VW bus no problem. Speed will get you through.
I was told that piste becomes impassable in the wet season, due to many flooded gullies. In wet season better to put vehicle on Dakar train in Bamako. You can get off across the border in Senegal. Many hassles, and expensive. But better than being stuck in mud for weeks.

Hi, we drove from Bamako to Keyes on the track which follows the railway, would be tough in 4x2 but they were putting in a new road. If you go that way the Chutes de Felou are worth a visit, then follow the river to lovely St Louis on good tarmac. This was 5 years ago so may be out of date, but was a highlight of the trip.

Happy Trails

Bruce

Hi there, just been to and come back from Ghana via Mauritania,Mali, B Faso with a Land Rover, the best route with a van is Nara through to Nema, We went south Ayoun to Nioro, the road is still a way from being finished and the piste parts are rough and slow. We came back Kayes to Kiffa and there is alot of soft sand piste between Kankossa and where you meet up with the main graded piste on the way north near Kouroudjel, which would give you some problems, though if you use a local guide (pick one up in Kankossa) you could do it with sand ladders! and there is some lovely scenery along the ouadi. There is a new Graded(corrogated)piste from Bamako to Kayes now which goes through Manantalis. Dont try and follow the Senegal River/railway/power line route up to Kayes from Bamako as its too rough for normal 2wd. Take it easy, Gipper.

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Any updates on security between Bamako and Nouakchott?