Tunis - Niamey: how long
 

hard driving, without any side spins, how long would it take from Tunis to Niamey via In Salah, Tam, Assamakka, Agadez, Niamey.
I'm driving solo in a Defender 110 leaving around Feb. 20th.
I am also seeking 1 or 2 more cars doing the same trip. or parts of it, in order to share guide costs. I was told that an algerian guide for up to three vehicles runs about € 540,- incl. invitation letter, fax to the embassy etc. one way.
I'm breaking my rule "travelling light and slow" at least what concerns the second part.
I have business in Niamey and only 5 weeks round trip. Retour via atlantic route, because I have also business in Bamako to take care of

Hi
I may be a bit out of date now, but in january this year (2005), we went to Tamanrassett from Tunisia.
Wea had to arrange a guide to meet us at border via a tourist agency, (Tarahist I think. I have contact details somewhere).
The cost was based on 80 euros a day, he has to drive his own vehicle.
You will need to apply for a transit visa, and need to know when you are entering and leaving Algeria. (you probably know this already?)
We spent some 6 days driving down!!.. The military stop and want to have a chat with requests to complete a fiche at every opportunity. In one case, we were told to stay at El Meniaas for a day to await a fuel convoy to tag along with.
If we were left alone, the drive would take only 2 days, even without night driving.
Hope that helps, and its not now out of date..Anyone else help on this one??
Chris