So we eventually left Tanaf and all of our new friends, and headed tentatively to the Malian border. Our first stop was the town of Kolda, which is known for having the cheapest beers in Senegal - an opportunity we couldnt miss.
For the night we stayed in an odd compound, the address of which was given to us by an aid worker who we met previously. The compound was run by two very inquisitive students who were wondering why we were there, and wondering even more why we were in Senegal. We tried to explain ourselves with little success.
Certain things in Senegal have become second nature now, like the ability to spot a cheap restaurant. The giveaway is normally a bench outside a shack where you can get a decent rice and meat (source unknown) dish for about 50p - with water too, if your feeling lucky. Breakfast consists of deep fried omelette with coffee (two table spoons of sugar and sweetened condensed milk is the norm). This generally puts you off the idea of eating until at least lunchtime.
After Kolda we headed slightly north to Tambacounda, the roads are generally good now and make for easy if not a bit boring driving. In Tambacounda we ask about putting the car on the train to Bamako, as it lies on the infamous Dakar - Bamako line. Our chances were unlikely as most people didnt know where the train station was, and the train doesnt really seem to have a time table, if its even running at all.
The final drive to the Malian border was easy, and the formalities straight forward. Just a few minor problems finding the Police to stamp the passports. Odd because everywhere else the Police are more then happy to stop you in every town you pass through. The road to Kaye was slightly bumpier but still no problems - touch wood.
Kaye is a fairly dusty and smelly city, but we kind of liked it. No real hassle and you are free to walk around the markets as you please. There are a few old colonial buildings like the police station and train station shown below.
