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.
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