Niger and Libia: visas, guides and security

[Jose Brito]

I am currently planning a scientific expedition to North/West Africa starting in April 2004. After reading Sahara Overland (the book and the tips on the board), I have several (= a lot of) questions related with visas, guides and security.

1 – for Libya, can anyone confirm that it is currenty necessary to apply for visas in groups of three or more ?

2 – for Libya, can anyone confirm that the prices mentioned in Sahara Overland are updated: roughly 350 euros per person (including visa, letter of invitation and a guy waiting at Raj Ajdir to deal with the paperwork) ?

3 – for Libya, the demand for a daily guide remains mandatory ? If yes, the estimate of 50 euros/day for a guide in my car is it a reasonable one ?

4 – with the goal of reaching Dirkou from Libya, should it be “more safer” to go to Djanet and then follow the “Piste Balisé” or go from Al-Katrun following the "Malboro piste" ? Is the first option still officialy forbidden ?

5 – for Niger, the demand for a daily guide for the Tenere and Air mountains remains mandatory ? or even if it wasn’t, it is strongly advisable for safety reasons ? Can anyone recommend a reliable a guide in Dirkou (for the Tenere) and in Agadez (for the Air mountains) ?

6 - How much should I expect to pay between Dirkou and Agadez and for a 6 day trip to the Air mountains ?

7 – Is it possible to get a via for Niger in Tunisia or Libya ? Read somewhere that visas for Niger might be available in Sebha (Libya), can anyone confirm this ?

Thanks,
José