Emi Koussi

Chad Barring landmines, rebels, being off limits and unclimbed in several years there was no major problems.

Emi Koussi; The whole area is totally off limits. The last westerners to climb the mountain in 1998 were taken hostage. The whole area of the Tibesti has been mined over the years by the Libyans, Chad Army and the different rebel groups. There is no out side influence in the Tibesti. No aid agencies, no missionaries, no United Nations and the few Government Army troops are only in control of a few small towns. Although a resent seize fire was signed the new rebel leader did not attend. The rebels are very likely to take hostages.

Through a missionary who had lived up in Bardai for 5 years or so in the 1990's long negotiations and talks were held with the high up Toubou officials. Eventually and for a price a well connected guide from Yebbi-Bou the rebel strong hold was found. Permission is now allowed to visit Faya and a couple of other towns in North west Chad. Barring a small French Military detachment in Faya there are no other westerners and the Town sees few tourists. The Hotel is closed there but the French will accomodate people. The town can seem hostile and there are the usual hassles.

To the base of the mountain it is a 2 day hard drive. Explosive ordinance is evident but land mines are thought to be laid further north of Emi Koussi. With a well connected guide there was no problems after leaving Faya disguising myself when necessary as a local. You can drive to within 25 km GPS to the summit. With a guide from the mountain the peak was climbed in a long day. Water is available on route. The high point is at the southern edge of the crater rim, west of the obvious saddle. The summit views are impressive.

19 47.632 N 018 33.132 E 3453m