Results for "Dakar+|+99+>+78"
5622 results found.
Démarches administratives! Maroc, Mauritanie, Mali, Sénégal English translation pending
Bonjour,
je fais partie d'une association humanitaire qui aide le village de Keur-Moussa au Sénégal. Nous organisons pour l'été prochain un convoi. Nous traverserons le Maroc et la Mauritanie, puis terminerons notre voyage au Mali.
Nous réaliserons la traversée avec 2 peugeots J9 de 20 ans et 1 camion Berliet de 15 tonnes (GBC) de 1974. Nous recherchons de multiples informations sur les démarches à faire pour les différentes douanes (pour les véhicules et pour le fret humanitaire).
Si vous a déjà vécu ceci. Nous aimerions bénéficier de votre expérience. Nous avons moult questions (prix de la traversée en bateau Espagne-Maroc pour un poids-lourd? A-t-on le droit de transporter du Gasoil en grande quantité? ...????)
Merci
je fais partie d'une association humanitaire qui aide le village de Keur-Moussa au Sénégal. Nous organisons pour l'été prochain un convoi. Nous traverserons le Maroc et la Mauritanie, puis terminerons notre voyage au Mali.
Nous réaliserons la traversée avec 2 peugeots J9 de 20 ans et 1 camion Berliet de 15 tonnes (GBC) de 1974. Nous recherchons de multiples informations sur les démarches à faire pour les différentes douanes (pour les véhicules et pour le fret humanitaire).
Si vous a déjà vécu ceci. Nous aimerions bénéficier de votre expérience. Nous avons moult questions (prix de la traversée en bateau Espagne-Maroc pour un poids-lourd? A-t-on le droit de transporter du Gasoil en grande quantité? ...????)
Merci
Se déplacer à Madagascar? English translation pending
Pour qui aime la nature et les gens, comment ne pas tomber amoureux de cette île ? Après un périple inoubliable de 3 semaines le long de la N7 jusqu'à Tuléar en 1997, en employant tous les moyens de locomotion possibles, j'aimerai y retourner tout le mois d'Avril pour y decouvrir le Nord à moto..
En effet, cela reste le moyen idéal pour découvrir ce pays difficile d'accés avec un réseau routier qui ne nous permet pas forcément de nous enfoncer hors des sentiers battus...
Mon idée n'est pas de faire le paris dakar mais de prendre le temps au gré du voyage (je table sur 50 km par jour pour une 125cm3 ). Je suis donc interessé par toutes vos expériences en ce sens, une adresse de location proposant des deux roues en bon état ou les coins du Nord que vous avez particulièrement aimés...
Au fait, Avril au Nord c'est pas un peu limite pour les précipitations ??
Bon voyage à tous si vous partez et bon emerveillement si vous y partez !!
En effet, cela reste le moyen idéal pour découvrir ce pays difficile d'accés avec un réseau routier qui ne nous permet pas forcément de nous enfoncer hors des sentiers battus...
Mon idée n'est pas de faire le paris dakar mais de prendre le temps au gré du voyage (je table sur 50 km par jour pour une 125cm3 ). Je suis donc interessé par toutes vos expériences en ce sens, une adresse de location proposant des deux roues en bon état ou les coins du Nord que vous avez particulièrement aimés...
Au fait, Avril au Nord c'est pas un peu limite pour les précipitations ??
Bon voyage à tous si vous partez et bon emerveillement si vous y partez !!
Hôtel Lookea Royal Saly au Sénégal English translation pending
Nous partons avec nos deux enfants (4+8 ans) le 14 février au Lookea Royal Saly. Excursions, visites possibles avec des enfants de cet âge.
Qualité de cet hôtel - température de l'eau, température extérieure journée + soirée.
Attends tous conseils, toutes idées
Merci
ILONA
Qualité de cet hôtel - température de l'eau, température extérieure journée + soirée.
Attends tous conseils, toutes idées
Merci
ILONA
Se rendre au Sénégal en bateau English translation pending
😎Bonjour,
je débarque sur ce forum et déjà j'ai besoin de votre aide...
je souhaite me rendre au sénégal au mois d'aout et pour une fois je voudrais m'y rendre en bateau, au départ de marseille ou d'ailleurs, accompagné de mon 4*4.
Pour les curieux je projette de faire le tour du sénégal durant le mois d'aout.
je connais à peu près la côte West mais pas du tout l'est et le Sud.
Je ne suis pas contre l'idée de partager ce voyage avec une autre personne.
salut et A+
je débarque sur ce forum et déjà j'ai besoin de votre aide...
je souhaite me rendre au sénégal au mois d'aout et pour une fois je voudrais m'y rendre en bateau, au départ de marseille ou d'ailleurs, accompagné de mon 4*4.
Pour les curieux je projette de faire le tour du sénégal durant le mois d'aout.
je connais à peu près la côte West mais pas du tout l'est et le Sud.
Je ne suis pas contre l'idée de partager ce voyage avec une autre personne.
salut et A+
Visa pour la Guinée et le Mali English translation pending
Ceci est un appel à tous,
J'aimerais savoir si c'est compliqué et surtout possible d'obtenir des visas pour aller en guinée et au mali à partir du sénégal.
Je pars pour le sénégal le 12 février, pas le temps de faire les démarches ici. je pensais aller à l'ambassade du mali et de la guinée pour les obtenir...à Dakar.
Besoin de votre aide et de vos commentaires
J'espère pouvoir vous lire avant le départ...
Merci
Cathou-Absa
J'aimerais savoir si c'est compliqué et surtout possible d'obtenir des visas pour aller en guinée et au mali à partir du sénégal.
Je pars pour le sénégal le 12 février, pas le temps de faire les démarches ici. je pensais aller à l'ambassade du mali et de la guinée pour les obtenir...à Dakar.
Besoin de votre aide et de vos commentaires
J'espère pouvoir vous lire avant le départ...
Merci
Cathou-Absa
Descente en voiture en Côte d'Ivoire English translation pending
Bonjour a tous, je dois descendre en voiture jusqu'en Côte d'Ivoire en debut fevrier 2004, mais je n'ai pas fait cela depuis plus de 10 ans, et donc tout les passges et autres de frontiere sont completement modifies. Pourriez vous me dire quelles sont les formalites actuelles et comment cela se passe entre l'espagne et maroc, tarif bateau, maroc mauritanie, cout du passge .
Merci a tous et meilleurs voeux pour cette année2004
Merci a tous et meilleurs voeux pour cette année2004
Voyage au Sénégal et Niger English translation pending
bonjour je cherche des renseignements sur le senegal, et le niger si quelqu´un connais un on guide surplace qui pourrais m´organisez quelque chose
merci
Maroc-Mauritanie en transports en commun English translation pending
Hello !
une question (saugrenue ?) : est-il possible de rallier Maroc et MAuritanie en bus, train, ou tout transport en commun peu cher ?
Merci de vos tuyaux !
une question (saugrenue ?) : est-il possible de rallier Maroc et MAuritanie en bus, train, ou tout transport en commun peu cher ?
Merci de vos tuyaux !
Partager le quotidien des habitants - Sénégal, Mali, Burkina Faso English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
je réalise enfin un rêve cet été : parcourir le Sénégal, le Mali et le Burkina pendant 2 mois. .J'envisage ce périple non pas comme un voyage touristique, mais comme un échange entre plusieurs cultures à travers le partage de nos différences.
Pour cela, je souhaiterais découvrir l'Afrique authentique hors des sentiers touristiques, en partageant le quotidien des habitants et des villageois. Je voudrais me rendre utile selon les besoins et mes compétences (alphabétisation etc.)
J'arrive à Dakar le 21 juillet, serai au Mali courant août et au Burkina début septembre. Connaissez-vous des adresses ou des assos qui proposent ce type de formule sur ces 3 pays ?
Merci d'avance pour vos réponses !
A bientot et bon voyage à tous ceux qui ont la chance de partir ! Mandrine
je réalise enfin un rêve cet été : parcourir le Sénégal, le Mali et le Burkina pendant 2 mois. .J'envisage ce périple non pas comme un voyage touristique, mais comme un échange entre plusieurs cultures à travers le partage de nos différences.
Pour cela, je souhaiterais découvrir l'Afrique authentique hors des sentiers touristiques, en partageant le quotidien des habitants et des villageois. Je voudrais me rendre utile selon les besoins et mes compétences (alphabétisation etc.)
J'arrive à Dakar le 21 juillet, serai au Mali courant août et au Burkina début septembre. Connaissez-vous des adresses ou des assos qui proposent ce type de formule sur ces 3 pays ?
Merci d'avance pour vos réponses !
A bientot et bon voyage à tous ceux qui ont la chance de partir ! Mandrine
Refaire une mission humanitaire en Inde English translation pending
je suis infirmiere et j ai fait une mission humanitaire en inde du sud de 2 mois et je voudrais recommencer cette experience, voir pour l'avenir creer une assocation si vous etes interesse n esitez pas!!!
France: souhaite monter un projet humanitaire sur la Fac de Rouen English translation pending
Salut tout le monde!
Etudiant à Rouen, je souhaite, avec d'autres étudiants de l'Unoiversité de Rouen, monter un projet humanitaire durant l'année scolaire prochaine et réaliser la mission été 2004. Je suis à la recherche de coups de pouces, de personnes qui ont déjà monter un tel projet et qui peuvent m'apporter conseils, idées, liens-adresses, pour organiser au mieux cette expédition.
Merci de nous aider.
Sébastien
Vendre une voiture au Sénégal English translation pending
normalement, je dois partir en juin pour le sénégal avec un ami sénégalais (je recherche d'ailleurs des coéquipiers.) On part à deux voitures et on compte les revendre là-bas. aparemment, une voiture acheté 5000f en france peut être revendu 20000 au sénégal.
je compte reverser une bonne partir du bénéfice à des écoles locales mais je me sens quand même coupable d'amener là bas, nos mauvaises habitudes de pollueur en voiture.
j'aimerai connaitre l'avis des voyageurs qui surfent sur ce site;
merci
je compte reverser une bonne partir du bénéfice à des écoles locales mais je me sens quand même coupable d'amener là bas, nos mauvaises habitudes de pollueur en voiture.
j'aimerai connaitre l'avis des voyageurs qui surfent sur ce site;
merci
Le Sénégal, risqué? English translation pending
Salut a tous je cherche un voyage pour mon Frere qui va se marier; le Senegal me tente car se serait un depaysement total pour lui qui n'a jamais voyagé. Mais vu l'actualité en ce moment y a t-il des risques ? Si vous connaissez un peu ce pays merci de m'en dire un peu plus.
Neweve
Neweve
Solidarité internationale en Afrique? English translation pending
Bonjour,
Je pense partir fin juin et pour trois mois (et plus si...) vers un pays d'Afrique et, sur place, contacter les ONGs présentes. J'avais pensé au Nigéria mais je n'y ai "vu", pour l'instant, que la Croix-Rouge / Croissant-Rouge. Sans doute un peu trop tendu.
Autre idée ? Ceci me permettrait de mettre un pied dans la solidarité internationale * (logistique, administation, informatique (système (Windows et Linux, bureautique (excel, word, access))) et de poursuivre ensuite dans cette voie où je me sentirai plus utile que dans mon métier actuel (lequel n'est pas déplaisant, mais...).
Merci de vos conseils
Jacques
* Sinon, formation Bioforce (ce qui m'amènerait à être opérationnel à 54 ans...).
Je pense partir fin juin et pour trois mois (et plus si...) vers un pays d'Afrique et, sur place, contacter les ONGs présentes. J'avais pensé au Nigéria mais je n'y ai "vu", pour l'instant, que la Croix-Rouge / Croissant-Rouge. Sans doute un peu trop tendu.
Autre idée ? Ceci me permettrait de mettre un pied dans la solidarité internationale * (logistique, administation, informatique (système (Windows et Linux, bureautique (excel, word, access))) et de poursuivre ensuite dans cette voie où je me sentirai plus utile que dans mon métier actuel (lequel n'est pas déplaisant, mais...).
Merci de vos conseils
Jacques
* Sinon, formation Bioforce (ce qui m'amènerait à être opérationnel à 54 ans...).
Guinée: état des routes, carnet de passage English translation pending
Qui aurait des renseignements sur le pays : état des routes en Avril, en particulier dans le massif du Fouta Djalon, faut il impérativement un carnet de passage en douane pour la voiture, taxes à payer à la frontiere(en venant du Mali, puis en sortant pour le Senegal) Merci d'avance
What are your top tips for preparing a trip to Casamance?
Planning two weeks in October to explore off-the-beaten-path Casamance. Looking for tips to prepare for this trip.
Where to go in late October-early November for sunshine within 5 hours of Toulouse?
Hi! I’m on vacation from 10/31 to 11/7 and want to go somewhere sunny. I’m leaving from Toulouse and the flight can’t be more than 5 hours.
Any ideas?
Thanks for your help
Staircases. Photo contest theme for May 2026.
Hello
This month’s photo contest theme for May 2026 is "Staircases"
Plural or singular? Does it really matter as long as you’re told you’ve gone up or down them well?
Anyway, it’s not that complicated, even though I’m sure some will manage to overcomplicate it—after all, why keep things simple when making them complicated is so much more fun (as an Indian proverb goes).
To participate: Submit your photos until Monday, May 25 at 11:59 PM You can post up to 3 photos, numbered and shared in separate messages, along with a short description of the location and the story behind it.
To vote: From Tuesday, May 26 at 12:01 AM until Saturday, May 30 at 11:59 PM After the deadline, it’s too late.
Please include the photo number, username, and the points awarded: Photo #1 = 3 pts Photo #2 = 2 pts Photo #3 = 1 pt
All VF members can vote (even those who didn’t submit photos). In case of a tie for first place, the winning photo will be the one with the most first-place votes, then second-place votes! The lucky winner will get to organize June 2026’s photo contest.
For discussions about the theme, click here: Discussion thread for May 2026’s theme: Staircases
This month’s photo contest theme for May 2026 is "Staircases"
Plural or singular? Does it really matter as long as you’re told you’ve gone up or down them well?
Anyway, it’s not that complicated, even though I’m sure some will manage to overcomplicate it—after all, why keep things simple when making them complicated is so much more fun (as an Indian proverb goes).
To participate: Submit your photos until Monday, May 25 at 11:59 PM You can post up to 3 photos, numbered and shared in separate messages, along with a short description of the location and the story behind it.
To vote: From Tuesday, May 26 at 12:01 AM until Saturday, May 30 at 11:59 PM After the deadline, it’s too late.
Please include the photo number, username, and the points awarded: Photo #1 = 3 pts Photo #2 = 2 pts Photo #3 = 1 pt
All VF members can vote (even those who didn’t submit photos). In case of a tie for first place, the winning photo will be the one with the most first-place votes, then second-place votes! The lucky winner will get to organize June 2026’s photo contest.
For discussions about the theme, click here: Discussion thread for May 2026’s theme: Staircases
April 2026 Photo Contest Theme: Feeling Fishy?
The 140th (wow!) edition of the contest is now live!
Since it’s April Fools’ month and I’m a diver at heart, I had to pick a theme around the sea and fish.
This month’s theme is: sea fishing 🙂. Deep-sea fishing, rockpooling, shore casting, shellfish & crustaceans—anything remotely related to sea fishing fits the bill 😉
Photos of fishing boats, fishing ports, fish auctions, seafood stalls, nets and trawls, lobster pots, fishermen, your kids collecting cockles, even those New Year’s oyster shells 😏—no limits as long as it ties into the theme 😛 And of course, a special shout-out to anglers worldwide! 🙂
I’m traveling right now, so I don’t have many photos on hand. To illustrate the theme, I’ve chosen this shot of a small Vietnamese fishing boat I spotted near the Cham Islands, returning from a dive.

Contest rules: You can post up to three photos, each in a separate message, clearly numbering them (1, 2, or 3) and including the location where the photo was taken. Any explanations about your photos are welcome.
When voting, you’ll choose three photos, clearly stating the participant’s name followed by their photo number. The first photo in your vote gets three points, the second gets two, and the third gets one.
The winner will be the person whose photo earns the most points. In case of a tie, the winner will be the one with the most first-place votes, or if still tied, the most second-place votes. If it’s a perfect tie, the person who reached their score first wins. The winner then gets the honor of choosing and organizing May 2026’s contest theme. Ties for any other position won’t be broken. Finally, you don’t need to enter the contest to vote, but participants (and I hope there’ll be lots of you!) are *strongly* encouraged to vote!
Please only post contest photos in this thread. Starting Saturday, April 25 (00:01 Paris time), only votes should be posted.
Key dates: You can submit your photos from today until Friday, April 24, 2026 (23:59 Paris time—Xavier, you can do the math for Perth 😏). Voting starts the very next minute and ends on Thursday, April 29 (23:59 Paris time). Results will be announced on Thursday, April 30, 2026... The next host can take over on Saturday, May 2 (yeah, May 1 is a no-work day 😛)
Ready, set, shoot!
Since it’s April Fools’ month and I’m a diver at heart, I had to pick a theme around the sea and fish.
This month’s theme is: sea fishing 🙂. Deep-sea fishing, rockpooling, shore casting, shellfish & crustaceans—anything remotely related to sea fishing fits the bill 😉
Photos of fishing boats, fishing ports, fish auctions, seafood stalls, nets and trawls, lobster pots, fishermen, your kids collecting cockles, even those New Year’s oyster shells 😏—no limits as long as it ties into the theme 😛 And of course, a special shout-out to anglers worldwide! 🙂
I’m traveling right now, so I don’t have many photos on hand. To illustrate the theme, I’ve chosen this shot of a small Vietnamese fishing boat I spotted near the Cham Islands, returning from a dive.

Contest rules: You can post up to three photos, each in a separate message, clearly numbering them (1, 2, or 3) and including the location where the photo was taken. Any explanations about your photos are welcome.
When voting, you’ll choose three photos, clearly stating the participant’s name followed by their photo number. The first photo in your vote gets three points, the second gets two, and the third gets one.
The winner will be the person whose photo earns the most points. In case of a tie, the winner will be the one with the most first-place votes, or if still tied, the most second-place votes. If it’s a perfect tie, the person who reached their score first wins. The winner then gets the honor of choosing and organizing May 2026’s contest theme. Ties for any other position won’t be broken. Finally, you don’t need to enter the contest to vote, but participants (and I hope there’ll be lots of you!) are *strongly* encouraged to vote!
Please only post contest photos in this thread. Starting Saturday, April 25 (00:01 Paris time), only votes should be posted.
Key dates: You can submit your photos from today until Friday, April 24, 2026 (23:59 Paris time—Xavier, you can do the math for Perth 😏). Voting starts the very next minute and ends on Thursday, April 29 (23:59 Paris time). Results will be announced on Thursday, April 30, 2026... The next host can take over on Saturday, May 2 (yeah, May 1 is a no-work day 😛)
Ready, set, shoot!
Prepping for a North-to-South Africa backpacking trip for 8-9 months
Hey everyone!
I’m diving into planning a trip I’ve dreamed of for a long time: crossing Africa from North to South solo, with a departure planned for October 2025 for about 8-9 months. I’m leaving from Paris with a starting budget of around 7,000 €, aiming to supplement it with work along the way.
My planned route: Senegal → Gambia → Sierra Leone/Liberia (if logistics work out) → Côte d'Ivoire → Ghana → Togo → Benin → Cameroon → Gabon → Kenya (Masai Mara) → Uganda (Bwindi gorillas) → Rwanda → Tanzania (Kili + Serengeti + Zanzibar) → Mozambique → Malawi → Zambia (Victoria Falls) → Botswana → Namibia → South Africa (Cape Town). Madagascar as a bonus if timing/budget allows from Mozambique.
I’m not a backpacking newbie—I’ve done several trips in Europe and I’m familiar with the lifestyle, hostels, local transport, etc. But Africa is my first big adventure on this continent, and I’ve got some very concrete questions I’d love feedback on from people who’ve been there.
🎭 My big dilemma: flexibility vs. pre-organized work
What matters most to me is NOT rushing through. If I feel good somewhere, I’ll stay longer. If a region doesn’t click, I’ll cut it short. That seems totally incompatible with having pre-booked work or volunteer gigs, yet I need that income to stretch my budget.
I’m torn between two approaches:
Option A: The mixed rhythm: 3-4 weeks of volunteering in a country (free accommodation, full immersion), then 1-2 countries in classic backpacker "vacation" mode, then another mission somewhere, etc. This gives a breathing rhythm and avoids burnout from non-stop volunteering.
Option B: The continuous flow: finding gigs as I go, from the previous country, contacting hosts 2-3 weeks in advance with a flexible date range. Keeping maximum spontaneity but never arriving anywhere without a safety net.
Have you tried either? What actually works on the ground in Africa?
🌍 What I’m really looking for in this trip
Not just the classic tourist spots. I want to see the country as it is—eating at local joints, taking local transport (bush taxis, minibuses, sept-places), staying with locals when possible. The big reserves and safaris are part of the plan (Masai Mara, Serengeti, Okavango), but just as much as hanging out in a residential neighborhood in Dakar, understanding how people really live.
Volunteering or work interests me for that reason too (not just for free lodging, but because it’s the deepest way to dive into a country). Working at a school in Ghana, a lodge in Kenya, a permaculture farm in Mozambique—I see it as an immersion that classic tourism can’t offer.
🎒 My concrete questions
About Workaway and Worldpackers: I’ve read a lot but would love on-the-ground feedback, especially for West and East Africa. Are hosts really flexible with dates for long-term travelers? Do the advertised gigs match reality? Are there alternative platforms you’d recommend for Africa specifically (I’ve heard of Help Exchange, WWOOF Africa, local networks…)?
About "off-platform" jobs: Is it really doable to find informal work on the spot (bars, restaurants, lodges) without prior contacts? In which countries/cities is this most accessible for a French speaker without a local work permit?
About logistics between countries: For those who’ve done the West Coast (Senegal → Ghana → Benin), how did you cross borders? Direct buses or local shared taxis at each border? And for the jump from Central Africa → Kenya, is a flight mandatory, or are there feasible overland routes?
About Madagascar: I’m considering adding it from Mozambique (flight Maputo or Beira → Tana). Those who’ve done it backpacker-style on a tight budget—is 3-4 weeks doable, or is it too short to be worth it?
I’m open to all tips, experiences, warnings, and pleasant surprises. And if you’ve got trusted local contacts (Workaway hosts, associations, community lodges), I’m all ears!
I’ve got tons of questions and I’m eager for any advice or experiences you can share!!
I’m diving into planning a trip I’ve dreamed of for a long time: crossing Africa from North to South solo, with a departure planned for October 2025 for about 8-9 months. I’m leaving from Paris with a starting budget of around 7,000 €, aiming to supplement it with work along the way.
My planned route: Senegal → Gambia → Sierra Leone/Liberia (if logistics work out) → Côte d'Ivoire → Ghana → Togo → Benin → Cameroon → Gabon → Kenya (Masai Mara) → Uganda (Bwindi gorillas) → Rwanda → Tanzania (Kili + Serengeti + Zanzibar) → Mozambique → Malawi → Zambia (Victoria Falls) → Botswana → Namibia → South Africa (Cape Town). Madagascar as a bonus if timing/budget allows from Mozambique.
I’m not a backpacking newbie—I’ve done several trips in Europe and I’m familiar with the lifestyle, hostels, local transport, etc. But Africa is my first big adventure on this continent, and I’ve got some very concrete questions I’d love feedback on from people who’ve been there.
🎭 My big dilemma: flexibility vs. pre-organized work
What matters most to me is NOT rushing through. If I feel good somewhere, I’ll stay longer. If a region doesn’t click, I’ll cut it short. That seems totally incompatible with having pre-booked work or volunteer gigs, yet I need that income to stretch my budget.
I’m torn between two approaches:
Option A: The mixed rhythm: 3-4 weeks of volunteering in a country (free accommodation, full immersion), then 1-2 countries in classic backpacker "vacation" mode, then another mission somewhere, etc. This gives a breathing rhythm and avoids burnout from non-stop volunteering.
Option B: The continuous flow: finding gigs as I go, from the previous country, contacting hosts 2-3 weeks in advance with a flexible date range. Keeping maximum spontaneity but never arriving anywhere without a safety net.
Have you tried either? What actually works on the ground in Africa?
🌍 What I’m really looking for in this trip
Not just the classic tourist spots. I want to see the country as it is—eating at local joints, taking local transport (bush taxis, minibuses, sept-places), staying with locals when possible. The big reserves and safaris are part of the plan (Masai Mara, Serengeti, Okavango), but just as much as hanging out in a residential neighborhood in Dakar, understanding how people really live.
Volunteering or work interests me for that reason too (not just for free lodging, but because it’s the deepest way to dive into a country). Working at a school in Ghana, a lodge in Kenya, a permaculture farm in Mozambique—I see it as an immersion that classic tourism can’t offer.
🎒 My concrete questions
About Workaway and Worldpackers: I’ve read a lot but would love on-the-ground feedback, especially for West and East Africa. Are hosts really flexible with dates for long-term travelers? Do the advertised gigs match reality? Are there alternative platforms you’d recommend for Africa specifically (I’ve heard of Help Exchange, WWOOF Africa, local networks…)?
About "off-platform" jobs: Is it really doable to find informal work on the spot (bars, restaurants, lodges) without prior contacts? In which countries/cities is this most accessible for a French speaker without a local work permit?
About logistics between countries: For those who’ve done the West Coast (Senegal → Ghana → Benin), how did you cross borders? Direct buses or local shared taxis at each border? And for the jump from Central Africa → Kenya, is a flight mandatory, or are there feasible overland routes?
About Madagascar: I’m considering adding it from Mozambique (flight Maputo or Beira → Tana). Those who’ve done it backpacker-style on a tight budget—is 3-4 weeks doable, or is it too short to be worth it?
I’m open to all tips, experiences, warnings, and pleasant surprises. And if you’ve got trusted local contacts (Workaway hosts, associations, community lodges), I’m all ears!
I’ve got tons of questions and I’m eager for any advice or experiences you can share!!
Your thoughts on Senegal from Canada
Hello from Quebec,
I’m a French-Canadian from Montreal. I’d love to go to Senegal during the Quebec winter to shorten this long season. Two people told me it’s not worth spending a lot of money to get there from Canada because there’s not much to discover. But I’m still skeptical. I’d love to read real testimonials from travelers who’ve been there, with as much info as possible. Thanks
First-timer's feedback on the Marrakech-Merzouga road trip by car
Hi everyone, just back from the 8-day Marrakech-Merzouga loop by car, and I’d love to share my feedback in case it helps some of you. Big thanks to all the forum members who kindly answered my questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Solo backpacking trip to Benin
Hi everyone, thanks for your advice! I’m starting a new thread because it seems my first one about Senegal was deleted—or maybe it’s just my computer acting up again 😉. Anyway, I’ve decided to go to Benin instead. I’ll be there from January 5th to February 2nd—why count the days when you love traveling😄? I’d love all your tips on accommodations, restaurants, and itineraries. I’m basically starting from scratch to plan my trip.
Tips for solo travel in Senegal
Hi everyone,
I’m 66 and just discovered solo travel in Uzbekistan—I loved it! So I’ve decided to explore Africa, starting with Senegal. I’m just beginning my research, but if anyone can give me advice on which month to go, what to see, and whether this destination is safe—or maybe suggest another African country—I’d really appreciate your tips!
Transatlantic Cruise Review: Oceania Rio to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Hello everyone!
Booked the cruise a year in advance for a departure from Rio on April 5th.
Air France flight to Rio on April 3rd, arriving at the Windsor Plaza hotel, very well located just 300 meters from Copacabana Beach, with a pool on the 15th floor offering a view of Rio.
The next morning, a behind-the-scenes visit to Rio’s Carnival—there were still some floats not yet dismantled and a little samba session. At noon, lunch on Copacabana Beach, which was deserted due to rain and gray skies all day.
Saturday, April 5th, boarding the *Marina*—still raining :( To get around Rio, we used Uber, which was really cheap—5 euros for a 15-minute ride, while taxis cost double... Arrived at the cruise terminal, boarding was very quick as usual with Oceania. The cabins would be ready around 3 PM, with luggage at the cabin door. We had booked an inside cabin. Despite numerous offers from Oceania to upgrade (with a supplement, of course), we stuck with our first choice. It’s worth noting that at least 200 cabins remained unoccupied—about 800 passengers for this transatlantic crossing... Last September, since the cruise wasn’t filling up well, Oceania lowered the price by 1,000 euros per person for an inside cabin—a great deal for us, as they adjusted the rate downward when we asked.
For this cruise, weekends and drinks at the table were included—champagne, wine, beer...—plus an onboard credit that’s now only for excursions (before, it was more flexible—another downgrade, lol).
Headed to the Terrace Café for our first meal, and what a surprise when we saw the changes... No more staff mixing your chosen salad, and way fewer options: big bowls of salad, trays of potato salad, beets, lentils—I don’t remember seeing that before—thin slices of cold cuts and cheese. On the meat side, not much choice and lower quality. Desserts also had fewer options. Well, we’ll make up for it at Jacques on the first night ;) The menu hasn’t changed much—it’s still top-notch. The seasoning is average, but it’s a safe bet.
A little note on the 15-day cruise: we ate at 11 different restaurants—3 at Jacques, 3 at Polo Grill, 3 at Toscana, and 2 at Red Ginger. Not bad for two weeks ;) A French officer invited us to Toscana, which was really nice of her. Polo Grill is still amazing—I’d rank it second after Jacques, with Toscana third and Red Ginger last. I think since the ship wasn’t full, it was easier to get into these restaurants ;)
The staff was, as always, excellent. There were 3 French employees on the *Marina*: 1 waiter at Jacques, 1 manager at Wave, and 1 officer in the offices.
In the afternoon, Tea Time had way fewer pastry choices than before... Cost-cutting seems to be happening at every level. We met people who used to stay in Penthouse Suites—before, they got a bottle of champagne in their suite every night, but since January, it’s been Prosecco instead... Just a small example of Oceania’s cost reductions. At the Terrace Café in the evening, there was no more lobster on this cruise :(
Still, the value for money on this cruise was excellent given the price we paid per person. This transatlantic crossing had 4 stops in Brazil, 1 in the Cape Verde Islands, then Dakar in Senegal, and ended in the Canary Islands.
Mich74
Saturday, April 5th, boarding the *Marina*—still raining :( To get around Rio, we used Uber, which was really cheap—5 euros for a 15-minute ride, while taxis cost double... Arrived at the cruise terminal, boarding was very quick as usual with Oceania. The cabins would be ready around 3 PM, with luggage at the cabin door. We had booked an inside cabin. Despite numerous offers from Oceania to upgrade (with a supplement, of course), we stuck with our first choice. It’s worth noting that at least 200 cabins remained unoccupied—about 800 passengers for this transatlantic crossing... Last September, since the cruise wasn’t filling up well, Oceania lowered the price by 1,000 euros per person for an inside cabin—a great deal for us, as they adjusted the rate downward when we asked.
For this cruise, weekends and drinks at the table were included—champagne, wine, beer...—plus an onboard credit that’s now only for excursions (before, it was more flexible—another downgrade, lol).
Headed to the Terrace Café for our first meal, and what a surprise when we saw the changes... No more staff mixing your chosen salad, and way fewer options: big bowls of salad, trays of potato salad, beets, lentils—I don’t remember seeing that before—thin slices of cold cuts and cheese. On the meat side, not much choice and lower quality. Desserts also had fewer options. Well, we’ll make up for it at Jacques on the first night ;) The menu hasn’t changed much—it’s still top-notch. The seasoning is average, but it’s a safe bet.
A little note on the 15-day cruise: we ate at 11 different restaurants—3 at Jacques, 3 at Polo Grill, 3 at Toscana, and 2 at Red Ginger. Not bad for two weeks ;) A French officer invited us to Toscana, which was really nice of her. Polo Grill is still amazing—I’d rank it second after Jacques, with Toscana third and Red Ginger last. I think since the ship wasn’t full, it was easier to get into these restaurants ;)
The staff was, as always, excellent. There were 3 French employees on the *Marina*: 1 waiter at Jacques, 1 manager at Wave, and 1 officer in the offices.
In the afternoon, Tea Time had way fewer pastry choices than before... Cost-cutting seems to be happening at every level. We met people who used to stay in Penthouse Suites—before, they got a bottle of champagne in their suite every night, but since January, it’s been Prosecco instead... Just a small example of Oceania’s cost reductions. At the Terrace Café in the evening, there was no more lobster on this cruise :(
Still, the value for money on this cruise was excellent given the price we paid per person. This transatlantic crossing had 4 stops in Brazil, 1 in the Cape Verde Islands, then Dakar in Senegal, and ended in the Canary Islands.
Mich74
Our first trip to Senegal – a review
Hey everyone,
I wanted to share a little feedback on our first trip to Senegal, hoping it might help others who are on the fence about taking the plunge. We went in mid-February with my wife and our two daughters (6 and 9 years old), for 15 days in Saly, on the Petite Côte. It was our first time in West Africa, and honestly, we fell in love with the place.
We landed at Blaise Diagne Airport, and right away, the change of scenery hit us. The weather was pleasantly warm, the people were super welcoming, and it felt like we’d arrived somewhere where time moves differently. The ride to Saly was by taxi, and I’ll admit, the first encounter with Senegalese traffic was a bit of an adventure! 😅 But you get used to it fast—it’s lively, colorful, and there’s a lot of honking, but there’s a kind of logic in the chaos.
We rented a small apartment in Saly Niakh Niakhal, a 10-minute walk from the beach. It was perfect for the kids: huge beach, golden sand, warm water, and not too crowded. We went every morning—the girls built sandcastles, we chatted with the street vendors (who were really friendly, not pushy at all), and my wife quickly became addicted to iced bissap juice.
We did quite a few excursions: Bandia Reserve (the kids loved the giraffes and zebras roaming free), Gorée Island (a deeply moving experience, especially visiting the House of Slaves—it really puts things into perspective), and Lake Retba (which was a little less pink than we’d hoped, but the 4x4 tour was worth it!).
Fun little story: one day, we went to the market in Mbour, and our 6-year-old daughter was given a mango by a vendor just because she said “Bonjour Monsieur” with a big smile. It might seem like nothing, but those little gestures of kindness are what stood out the most during our trip. Senegalese people have a natural warmth and friendliness you don’t find everywhere. That famous “Teranga”—you really understand what it means when you’re there.
Food-wise, we ate grilled fish every other day, the girls discovered a love for chicken yassa, and I fell for thiéboudienne (with plenty of spice 😅). We also tried dishes at local spots—never got sick, and always felt welcome.
The trip back to Dakar was relaxed; we’d planned one night there before our flight. On our last evening, we sat on the corniche, watching the ocean and the sun set slowly. The girls didn’t want to leave. And honestly... neither did we.
So, if you’re hesitating about discovering Senegal with your family, go for it. Sure, it’s different. But that’s exactly what makes it so refreshing.
Happy to answer any questions!
– Nico.
Wild camping in Morocco?
Hello,
Is it possible to consider wild camping with young children, mainly in the Anti-Atlas? It’s not an option for budget reasons but rather a way of traveling we enjoy.
If we get the landowner’s permission and offer compensation, is it feasible?
Happy New Year to you all
If we get the landowner’s permission and offer compensation, is it feasible?
Happy New Year to you all
France-Benin Trip via Senegal
Hello fellow travelers,
I've made the France-Benin trip several times via the Mali "Route de l'Espoir," and the last journey was pretty tense—2013, 🥵🔥 military convoys and all the chaos in Mali from the border to Bamako. 😅
So, I’m planning to take the route again but this time via Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire, with a good old J9 (the mayor’s vehicles I used to travel in… 😎. Though the Mercedes 308 wasn’t bad either).
Has anyone done this recently?
A friend of mine did it 4 years ago, but things can change pretty quickly.
If you’d like to share your latest experiences, I’m all ears! 😊 Have a great weekend! 👋
Premier voyage en solo 4x4 au Mali English translation pending
bonjour a tous voila j'entrevois de partir d'ici quelque mois au Mali plus précisecement dans les environs de la régions de kita afin de partir non loin de cet region pour rallier le village familiale et d'y sejourné , je recherche des personnes interesser et véhiculé bien sure voulant faire une partie de ce voyage afin que nous puissions nous entredaider le cas échéant je presice que je n'ai toujours pas le véhicule et que je resident a paris désoler pour les erreur d'orthographe
Quelle carte routière pour un voyage en Mauritanie et au Sénégal? English translation pending
Bonjour,
quelle carte routière vous me conseillez pour un voyage en Mauritanie et au Sénégal ?
quelle carte routière vous me conseillez pour un voyage en Mauritanie et au Sénégal ?