I think post 2003 is no longer the time to explore northern Mali without risks. We crossed the Tim-Taou piste last month, coming from Atar to Bordj and a truck which came to help us was robbed twice. I understand this is normal for the area, a 'tax', and they were smugglers anyway - but with toubabs the tax would be a lot higher then a drum ot two of fuel.
I also understand that MBM (GSPC guy) has been chased out of the Tuareg area around Kidal into a hole north of Taoudenni, a Berabish controlled area where he has been told to not make waves. But he and his people are up there nevertheless, waiting.
We wanted to visit the area of Tagnout Chag' well crossing the little known Tess-Taou piste but - as I suspected beforehand from the 'lie of the land' - were told it was not safe.
Of course this assumes you are travelling in a nicely-equipped car. On a camel or a clapped out Series III you would not have much to lose.
Ch
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