DESTINATION: DAKAR RALLY
The toughest motor race in the world, the Dakar, is an epic event of guts, grunt and horsepower over 5000 miles of rocks, dunes, village tracks, potholes and worse. It starts in Europe but traipses through one of earths harshest environments - the Sahara desert. Cars, motorbikes and trucks undertake the long march to the finish line in Dakar, Senegal. But did you know you can do it too? And you dont need to be a pro or even have much money. Charity groups organise rallies every year along similar routes which you can join on a shoestring budget.
The rallies have been organised so that any nob with four wheels can make it. They also raise money for projects in the region through the donation of your car at the rallies end. Contact the Dutch Amsterdam-Dakar or the English Plymouth-Banjul organisers. The benefits of driving in a group are numerous however many travelers also undertake the route to Dakar or even further in Africa under their own steam every year with a vehicle. Heres a look at what to expect along an independent route. The above websites outline the charity itineraries.
The European Leg: Easily the fastest and least difficult stretch it can also be the most costly with European prices for fuel and goods. Stock up on the last western luxuries and beat it to Spains ferry terminals at Algeciras, Almeria or Malaga to Tangier or Ceuta in Morocco. Drivers must be the owner of the car or have written permission from the owner to take the car into Morocco.
Morocco: You can trace any leg you want down through Morocco - the beautiful Atlas mountains, wonderful towns and foods make Morocco enjoyable. Marrakesh and Fes are highlights. The southern section of Morocco is disputed territory and you will constantly stopped at security outposts. The guards are just doing their job so be as polite as possible. Mauritanian visas are available in Casablanca.
Mauritania: The border crossing into Mauritania is a wee bit sandy and the first town Nouadhibou is still some distance south. Theres not a lot there but you can see the worlds longest train pull in every day at the station. The road to Nouakchott is tarmac but the more interesting route via Atar and historic Chinguetti is highly memorable. Youll need a 4wd to tackle the dunes. Visas for Senegal are available in the capital Nouakchott and require a few days to process.
Senegal: Make sure you cross the Senegalese border well before closing or guards will try to fine you on the Senegalese side. St Louis in the north is a wonderful seaside tropical climate after the rigours of the desert-like Mauritania. Its renowned for jazz, laid back bars and birdlife at the Djoudj Sanctuary. The capital Dakar is another days journey south of here and the end of your Dakar journey. Do a lap around Lac Rose (Lake Retba) like the real Dakar riders as a final celebration.
Surviving in Africa...
Heres some tips to help survive in this harsh continent:
To drive in sand - let the air pressure out of your tyres and go at a slow but constant speed
Learn basic French - the lingua franca of north west Africa
Develop a taste for tea - the social beverage of the region
Adopt the enshallah attitude - Africans operate on a "God willing" policy thats laidback and relaxed
Like camels - the smelly, bad tempered beasts may well be your only friend if you attempt a more local like means of transport
Tie a turban - hot, swirling sandy winds will encourage you to adopt local headwear. Buy a scarf and get used to tying it around your face
Like it hot hot hot - the further south you get the hotter it gets, even in winter
Bargain - food, clothing, guides and accommodation are all negotiable quantities. Enjoy it and have a laugh.
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TOP THINGS TO DO ENROUTE TO DAKAR...
1. Take some time out with a camel safari through the Sahara
2. Gorge yourself on Moroccos fine cuisine including tangine and cuscous
3. Sample a brew of mint tea in Morocco
4. Sample the delights of a desert oasis like Atar, Mauritania
5. Meet some desert nomads in Mauritania
picture above: Saharan desert camp, southern Morocco
6. Witness the real Dakar rally in January
7. Endeavour to keep as cool as possible!
8. Enjoy the suave sounds of St Louis, Senegal during the annual jazz festival
9. Marvel at the 1.5 million birds, wetlands and streams in Djoudj Sanctuary, Senegal
10. Bargain hard for good prices and to avoid bribes!
picture above: 4wd in southern Morocco
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SEPTEMBER:
> Festival of Fantasia - horse riding, Meknes, Morocco (early)
> Festival of Fiances, Imilchl Moussem, Atlas Mountains, Morocco (4th week)
OCTOBER:
> Date Festival, Erfoud, Morocco (early)
DECEMBER:
> Olive Festival, Rafai, Fez Province, Morocco (mid)
> Horse Festival, Tissa, Fez Province, Morocco
JANUARY:
> Dakar rally, Senegal
FEBRUARY:
> Almond Blossom festival, Tafraout, Morocco (2nd week)
MAY:
> Honey Festival, Imouzer of Ida Ou Tanane, Agadir Province, Morocco (early)
> Rose Festival, Kelaa of M’Gouna, Ourzazate Province, Morcco (mid)
> Le Printemps des Cordes
- African Festival of traditional string instruments, French Cultural Center, Dakar, Senegal
> Festival of Nomad Music, Nouackchott, Mauritania
JUNE:
> Cherry Festival, Sefrou, Fez Province, Morocco
> Gnawa music Festival, Essaouira, Morocco
> Dakar-Goree jazz festival, Senegal
> St Louis Jazz festival, Senegal
> Recidak African film festival, Senegal (end)
JULY:
> Camel Festival, Tan Tan Road, Goulimine, Morocco |
