Tips and Advice

While things tend to change quickly in West Africa, we’d like to think we have accumulated some reliable first-hand knowledge that could come in handy. 

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The ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance System

The ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance System

One thing overlanders need to be sure of when traveling in West Africa is that their vehicles have relevant and current 3rd party insurance. You won't make it between two big towns in many West African countries without coming across a police checkpoint where you will...

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Vaccinations and Travel Immunizations for West Africa

Vaccinations and Travel Immunizations for West Africa

We're not going to lie, you may have to get poked a few times before your trip to West Africa. Some immunizations are required to enter certain West African countries, while others are simply recommended (and recommended should not be considered optional in this...

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Cash, Credit Cards and ATMs in West Africa

Cash, Credit Cards and ATMs in West Africa

It's a testament to the extreme knowledge void with respect to West Africa, that I've been asked on several occasions whether or not the region has banks. So let's get this out of the way now: if you are anticipating some kind of primordial world where financial...

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Staying Safe on West African Roads

Staying Safe on West African Roads

I remember when I first decided to travel to West Africa. Family members spoke to me as if I had lost my mind. "West Africa? Are you insane?" Thankfully, I didn't listen to them. West Africa has an unfortunate reputation. The region seems to only show up on TV screens...

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The Best Route from Dakar to Bamako

The Best Route from Dakar to Bamako

Far and away the easiest route to travel between Senegal and Mali is the one that takes you from Tambacounda to Kédougou in Senegal, and then to Kéniéba, Kita, Kati then Bamako in Mali. The route from Kayes via Diema has really declined over the past several years and...

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