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North Africa Topics specific to North Africa and the Sahara down to the 17th parallel (excludes Morocco)
Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



Trans Sahara Routes.

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  #1  
Old 2 Jun 2004
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Eclipse 2006
Hello,

I know this might be rather early, but being a Sahara virgin, I'm erring on the side of caution regarding preparations.

Is anybody out there thinking of travelling to the total Solar eclipse on 29th March 2006? A map of it's path can be found here.

Although it extends from the Gold Coast up through to Turkey and Russia, the greatest duration occurs over the central Sahara; Niger, Libya or Chad. The author of the above website (Fred Espenak) normally puts on more detailed maps nearer the time, but for the time being, the path coordinates are available here.

Ideally, the overall route would be circular, perhaps Tunisia - Libya - Niger southbound, and the Hoggar route north. This is merely a preference, however, and the actual route won't be decided upon for at least another year.

In the meantime, I thought I'd ask if there was any other interest in this, with the view of possibly forming a small convoy...?

Many thanks,

Andy Chamberlain
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Old 2 Jun 2004
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Nice idea, I was planning a specialist fly-in + self drive tour there myself at: http://www.saharan-eclipse.com.

IMO it's a bit late in the season to make the most of the full loop you mention - gets a bit windy and hot which takes away some of the appeal.

CS
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Old 3 Jun 2004
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Hi Chris,

Looks good! I'm certainly interested to know more details, especially given what you say about the wind and heat.

I've been looking at options for a while. What I'd fear most is missing the eclipse due to bureaucracy at a border or waiting for a convoy departure (et al). Thus, flying in was originally a consideration but just wasn't sure where to and how easy the 4x4 hire would be.

Will you be at the RGS Explore 2004? Missed it last year, but at least African politics might be more relevant this time...

Andy

[This message has been edited by andyc (edited 03 June 2004).]
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Old 3 Jun 2004
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There are several eclipse companies already offering places for 2006 (some of the locations are a bit crap, IMO, but you get what you pay for) and no doubt most of the established Saharan ops will get on the case too.

Depending on where you want to observe it, I dont think you need worry about getting hung up at the border with your own vehicle - for example Libya is not that bad, just relatively expensive (and prices for guides may well jump that week in 2006, if guides are still needed).
DIY in a group of cars would be cost effective if you can be bothered with it all.

A tour, fly-in or otherwise, takes care of all that of course.

"Clear skies or your money back!" I was tempted to proclaim, but statistically it is about 80% chance.

Wind and heat may only be a problem (or rather, disappointment/nuisance) for the long loop you mentioned - a quick Libya in and out to observe it will be OK.

Dont know about RGS Explore yet.

Ch
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Old 3 Jun 2004
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Thanks for the info. Yes, I've had a look at some of the operators and the itineraries they propose. Looks like the Libya road from Alexandria will be pretty busy.

Personally, the setting is very important, and the more remote the better.

Keep me posted about your own expedition - location, cost, etc. The fly-in and self drive you describe sounds very attractive. Is there more than just the picture at the URL you gave?

Andy
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Old 3 Jun 2004
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"Personally, the setting is very important, and the more remote the better."

I agree entirely - its the Sahara after all!

"Is there more than just the picture at the URL you gave?"

I guess the link off the front page is not so intuitive then... Now wonder business is slow!

Have another look and let your mouse run around a bit ;-)

Ch

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