Thanks for the quick reply, Chris.

As it turns out, I have a multiple-entry visa for Niger (I was in Ouagadougou about nine months ago, so I came prepared with visas to Niger and Benin as well in order to see the elephants. The Parc W is pretty cool, and I wish I could've stayed there for more than just a few hours) that has a few more months on it. I'm getting it renewed at Niger's UN mission when I go to visit my family in New York. So I will have a visa for Niger, though I'd be more inclined to fly into Nouadhibou, then overland to Niamey. I understand that Niger is a challenge to get into from the north, but is relatively easy from the West.

It's really my intention to see what there is to see in southern Algeria (you mentioned Djanet as being a nice place to see–any chance of getting to Ghat and back?) and then fly out. If I were to make it to IGZ, then I suppose I wouldn't turn down the opportunity to cross to Assamakka, but I'm certainly not counting on that last part coming to fruition. I know Niger's pretty strict about getting a military escort when coming from up there.

While on the topic of Assamakka, How "not permitted" do you think tourists are? Though I'm not planning on it, I'd like to get your opinion: To cross into Assamakka, would it be a "carton of cigarettes to smooth things over" or would it be a "thrown in jail/deported/turned back" situation?


Any recommendations? I've done some research and very few guides seem to have websites or even emails. Not a surprise at all, but it does mean that I'll have to dig a little deeper to hire someone.

Thanks!