West Africa-Carnet de Passage?
 

For all of you who've done west africa in the last few months or reckon they know...

ok, i know in theory i should have a carnet de passage, but i can't afford one (RAC-150% value of my van!)... i intend 3/4 months across Moroco- Maurit-Mali-Togo-Benin-Senegal and back.

From what i see lots make it without and are certain its not vital... are bribes a must all the time? If yes, do they tend to be big? Others say don't try the trip without the carnet... i don't know what to believe (and i've phoned every consular in UK,France and Mauritania, all contradict eachother).

If its just 'advised' to get one yet possible to pass with a deposit in each country, how much do deposits tend to be?

Any or all your opinions very welcome.

Good luck to those of you heading off around Sept, might see yez around.

Cheers,



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Xav

Last count you could definitly pass all West African countries with the possible exceptions of Ghana and Nigeria without a carnet. You receive a temporary import document at the border which varies between free and about €8 depending on the country with the exception of Guinea Conakry.