I did the Atlantic route last year hitchhiking, have seen the Egyptian side already. I am looking for more of a challenge this time and would really like to see some open desert, so have a couple of questions. First, what is the guide situation like in Algeria? From where do I actually need a guide, south of Ghardaia? When I enter Niger, or... glup.. north mali, do I still need one? (legally, not sensibly=) I was thinking of taking my CTT-250, and just going for it a la Chris in the 80's style. With the current situation maybe thats not a great idea? Is there a possibility that I could get away with crossing most of it without an entourage? The idea of having a 4X4 following me the whole way down doesn't exactly strike me as... well.. atmospheric. Other question, the Tanezrouft. I have been in contact with a few locals in Tessalit and northern Mali, they seem to think I wouldn't be entirely mad to try it. Maybe a little, but who here isn't? I don't want to be stupid though, I am a fool but I don't like to be fool hardy. Besides the risk of being kidnapped, is there access to fuel, water crossing the Tanez?? Remember I am a lone biker, am I going to end up a shruken natural mummification for future archaeologists? Last thing, seeing as I am most likely going to find out a guide is manditory, anyone interested in sharing one?