I hope to drive my UK-registered car from Gambia to Ghana in September. Then, I want to temporarily leave the vehicle in Ghana, fly home (back to work) and finally pick up the vehicle a few months later (then continue my journey down Africa).

Does anyone know if this process is possible?

1) I would have a Carnet for the car so I think entry should be ok. Am I right in thinking temporary imports are possible for right-hand-drive cars also? It looks like permanent imports are not allowed.

2) When I enter with a Carnet is my passport stamped to say that I entered with the vehicle or is it logged electronically? Would this stop me flying out of the country without the vehicle, even though I was planning to return (if necessary I could have a return ticket already booked).

3) Assuming the above is possible, does anyone know the maximum amount of time I could leave the car in Ghana? I have seen a limit of 3 months mentioned in the case of a temporary import but I'm not sure if this limit also applies if I have a Carnet? Is there anyone to increase the limit (if necessary I will adjust my itinerary to ensure I return within 3 months).

For Gambia, a local has told me the above process works but it's quite difficult to find the information for other countries. In some places I have heard people say that it is possible to leave your car temporarily impounded in a customs depot when away (for a fee). Maybe this is an option in Ghana?

Any ideas/advice are much appreciated. If it won't work for Ghana perhaps someone knows a nearby country where it might work?