What is the current situation?
 

So what is the current situation on the Algerian route through Tam and down into Niger? I'm thinking about a 4x4 trip this coming winter. Is it safe or is it definitely a no-go?

South of Algeria visa situation unclear, north of Niger is a no-go at this time
but see other more pertinent threads such as
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...-algeria-57191
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...-from-lp-61206
Things may change quickly and without notice

Robert Fowler's book
 

Don't know what took me so long but I recently read Robert Fowler's book on their kidnapping ordeal in 2009. Reviewed here (with another book) and a fascinating read. Sketch map of their north Mali camp below
For the first time (in English) you get a compelling and detailed account of what it's like to be grabbed and kept in the Sahara for months.

I also happened to come across 2003 abductee Rainer Bracht's account summarised and archived on motorrad magazine's website in three parts (starts here or see the bottom of the page linked above for translations). It was all happening early 10 years ago (remember this thread...) but I never quite worked out where Group II went and how they got there until I read motorrad or clocked the top map below.

Ch

http://deserttravels.files.wordpress...oute.jpg?w=300

http://deserttravels.files.wordpress...can1.jpg?w=300