-----EDIT: TRIP NOW CLOSED, THANKS-------

Beast of Burden have 2 spaces remaining to join our fly-in expedition in January (Salt & Gold '08).

Our route is Chinguetti - Tidjikja - Tichitt - Oulata - Nema - (ext. Niafunke - Timbuctu - Dogon country) - Bamako

The aim of the trip is to navigate the ancient salt and gold trading passages riding from ksour to ksour with the end goal for most being Timbuctu (cross-country if possible) and perhaps a short tour in Dogon country.

In terms of difficulty there are sandy and extremely remote sections. You don't need to be Cyril Despres, but the trip is best suited to riders with off-road experience. If all goes to plan we won't ride tarmac for 20 days - so don't come if you don't enjoy sand!

4x4's carry all gear, fuel, water and food so no need for Touratech bling or expensive kit - just a suitable serviced bike. Most important is a 'positive expedition attitude' to get you through the tough bits - there is no guarantee we will make it all the way.

Riders fly into Atar on the 13th (or NKT on the 12th if you want to catch the Dakar in town) and return from Bamako 3 weeks later. Bikes & kit need to be ready for collection in the UK by New Years Day.

A rare opportunity that's likely to get rarer as the region changes – and a chance of a lifetime for someone. If you think this is for you or you want to know more, get in touch - no such thing as a daft question.

Route map, costs and faq's here: Route Map (or click on the Salt & Gold banner ad above)

NOTE: Salt & Gold '08 is a not-for-profit expedition. Any proceeds made go to Riders for Health (Riders for Health, registered charity no. 1054565). The Beast of Burden support team are giving their time for free on this one.

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Pictures, Mauritania 2011