Markharf, I think it was comparatively easy to sneak across the Alg border back then.
The game has changed, and is constantly changing.
I was quoted 1500 euros for a guide to Tam.
Had long talks with touaregs and libyans about driving through north of Niger.
The need to carry arms.
The (mutual) fear when you meet headlights in the dark.
The preference for gasoline V8.
And many other aspects of trying to stay alive in the north.
I heard from north Burkina (Dori) that a German couple were shot in the legs by the gendarmes after running a checkpoint driving at night, fearing bandits. Bad things happen, even in peaceful Burkina.
Near Dori I asked local touaregs if they would go to Kidal: "not for a million CFA".
Gao? "Only if we really had to. Too many bandits, high on cocaine and other drugs, just too dangerous".
Makes Mauretania and Chad look all the more appealing at this point in time.
Last edited by priffe; 1 Mar 2014 at 02:24.
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