Niger - Two rhinos clash - Stonecutting at the confluence Enneri Blaka / Enneri Domo

Niger - On the western edge of the Aïr - engravings at the site Tanakom

Niger - Ténéré - a millstone Neolithic, found with his crusher.

Niger - Tadrart - Site In-Djaren - Giraffe painted in a shelter, width 43 cm

Niger - Tadrart - Site In-Djaren - Rock isolated with 8 carved elephants

Niger - Aïr – Site Tagueït-up - Fresco of carved giraffes

Niger - Djado - Enneri Blaka, Site 5 - Engraving of a rhinoceros, period of hartebeest

Dabous (Aïr occidentale) – Fresco with animals: giraffes, ibexes (?) Etc. The giraffe measures 1.15 m from nose to tail.

Tendarine (Niger-Aïr) – Engraving of giraffes and antelopes

Tuareg girl in the camp of Mechovi - Aïr - Niger.

A baby carrier made of goat leather for the little Djamila in the camp of Toufouchi – Aïr –Niger.

Dunes and a dead tree - This tiny dead tree contrasts with the immense and sensual sand dunes caressed by the wind. - Tenere - Niger

Objective Arakao - At the edge of the Aïr and the Ténéré, the Arakao mountains become visible on the horizon, setting the goal of a long day's march for the caravan. Caution: Bring enough water! - Niger / between Aïr and Tenere / 1999

Dunes in Arakao - The Arakao region is part of the Aïr Massif, which is still one of the most wooded areas in the Sahara. However, at the border of the Ténéré and its dunes, the already sparse vegetation disappears abruptly. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 1992

Exploring - Like a Scout leader, Abakaoua explores the narrow passage that leads to the top of the dunes of Ifiniyane.

Light caravan - For one-day trips, the camel drivers leave behind bags, riding saddles, food and feed supplies at the camp. They will only ride the camels when the heat makes walking unbearable. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 1999

Caravan leaving for Gouloukou - Gouloukou is marked on the map! The sound of the name is reminiscent of gurgling water. This is not surprising: Gouloukou is a fountain where tadpoles like to have fun. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 1999

The lost stone - At sunset, the shadow of a rare stone points north-east. - Niger / Ténéré / 1975

Marble, Oued (Wadi) In-Gall - At the foot of marble blocks, the sea of sand crashes like the ocean against the jagged cliffs that have been polished during millennia. - Niger / Aïr / 1992

Color variations - Only green is missing, the rarest color in the desert... and symbol of life.

Traces of the wind - Foot and hoof prints withstand only for a short time against the endless impressions the wind traces in the sand. - Niger / Ténéré / Erg Izane / 2001

The great outdoors… - The caravan moves southeast, towards the endless Ténéré. - Niger / Ténéré / 2000

Guelta of Enghar - Probably the coldest water in the Aïr! The sun never shines into the depths of this rock cleft on the trail to Toufouchi. - Niger / Aïr / 2001

Guelta of Agamgam - Among volcanic walls, clan chief Abakaoua leads his camels to a drinking hole and its amazingly fresh, cool water.

Hanging from the moon - In this lunar landscape, a tree spreads its network of roots and branches across a wide area to catch the meager dew necessary for its survival. Yet another miracle! - Niger / Aïr / Piste d'Agamgam / 1992

The only possible way - In a narrow canyon, the caravan of camels examine the only passable route through the rocky chaos. - Abri Ilem / Niger / Aïr

Rock-art site of Tanakom - At the edge of the Aïr mountains, the petroglyphs converge at the mouth of the wadis (valleys), where the savannah life prevailed the longest after the onset of desertification. They testify to the fact that giraffes and lions cavorted here with the animals of Neolithic cattle herders. - Niger / Between Aïr and Ténéré / 1992

A bit of family history - Abdelkrim ag Ahrmed, son of Ahrmed ag Chaoua, is the grand-son of Chaoua and comes from a dynasty of caravan leaders. In the language of the Tuareg, Tamacheq, “ag” means “son of”. - Niger / Aïr / 2003

The red boulder - A clear day on wadi Tafidet, which – though rarely – carries water from the Aïr to the Ténéré. Driven by an exceptional flood, this rock broke off its route and, when the sun reappeared, had landed here. - Niger / Ténéré / 1992

Where there’s water, there's life - The waterhole of Iffazane offers a rare treasure: water, which provides for fresh greenery throughout the year. - Niger / Aïr / 2002

Return from the well - The donkeys are tired, the water odres are full and the sun approaches its zenith: a common sight on the track between Iferouâne and Arlit. - Niger / Aïr / 2003

Selima, a Targuia from Zakkat - Her husband is still a nomad, but Selima has become sedentary. In the Zakkat oasis, she educates her two children and takes care of a herd of goats. A Targuia is a woman; a Tuareg, a man. - Niger / Aïr / 2001

Natural mosaic - Long before man existed, nature took over the sole raw material, stone, to draw and sculpt eternal forms. - Niger / Aïr / Takaloukouzet / Detail of the bedrock / 1993

Rock site of Tagueït - Was the Neolithic woman interested in fashion? At least that is what this image, set in stone by man long ago, seems to show. Height of the figure: 1.10 meters from the top of the hair to the base of the feet. - Niger / Eastern Aïr / Tagueït Site / 1992

Tuareg child - Framed by a tuft of hair dedicated to Allah and amulets bearing verses from the Koran, the look of this boy scans his whole future dedicated to faith. - Tezirzek / Aïr / Niger

Gazelle grass - In the Ténéré, vegetation is often limited to individual grasses, sparse food for gazelles and cattle, but a poetic toy for the wind.

The dunes and the bird - A picture puzzle: Where is the bird? With a magnifying glass, one can see the black and white Moulay-Moulay (white-crowned wheatear from the Sahara, Oenanthe leucopyga), which is traditionally regarded as a lucky charm for travelers.

Targuia at the fountain of Tezirzek - Between the high plateau of the Aïr Mountains and the Ténéré, the Tezirkek fountain attracts nomads and their animals. Unlike the men, the women do not wear a headscarf. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 2003

Dunes at Temet - In the dry season, the Wadi Temet consists only of a red-hot riverbed featuring the silhouette of a dead tree, which the dunes protect and threaten at the same time. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 2003

Marble and wood, a still life - A composition of desolate eternity in the land of Kel-Kédélé.

The two sisters of Toufouchi - Their features are clean; their look, determined. And a firm will is needed to survive in these inhospitable latitudes. The two sisters of Toufouchi look after the goats, cook, fetch water and find enough time in between for jokes and laughter.

Kids games - When his feet touch the ground, it will be time for the older child to become a man. Then the carefree days of childhood and adolescence will come to an end. - Niger / fountain of Tezirzek / 1992

Selima and son - Called «cul-nu» by the photographer, the son of Selima hides his tiny garment under the wide skirt of his mother. - Niger / Aïr / Zakkat / 2001

Dusk over the Arakao - The dead tree in backlight is reminiscent of a fallen figure by Giacometti. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré

Light and Shadow - The sun rises on Arakao. Nothing will disturb the silence of the shadows or the stillness of the light. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 1992

Tuareg warrior - With a single blow of his Takuba, Boubakar ag Mohamed has beheaded a jackal... what a feat! As the leader of a clan of ten families from the Kel Takriza tribe, formerly feared in the Sahel because of their raids against black farmers, today he is the most peaceful of Tuareg dignitaries – and the one wearing the most makeup! - Niger / Western Aïr

The prehistoric rock shelter of Afis - 2500 years ago, hunters, gatherers and cattle breeders lived in a once heavenly green savannah and painted the already magical and fascinating image of women on the rock wall. - Niger / Aïr / 2001

The great crossing - Through rippled sand waves and immense dunes, the way of the caravan seems to be without end. - Niger / Ténéré / Erg Izane / 2001

Draw me a shadow - Shadow of life, shadow of death in the solitude of the desert. - Niger / Between Aïr and Ténéré / 1999

Lone Tree, region of Adrar Bous - How did this tree grow roots here? How has it survived the winds, the hungry herds and the men looking for lumber? Maybe they let it live because it provides unexpected shade in return. - Niger / Ténéré / 2003

Abakaoua, a Targi of the Kel Tédélé tribe - Symbol of the stubborn resistance of his people, chief Abakaoua ag Kanom is proud of his 72 years of age and wears an indigo cloth covering his head and shoulders, as well as khol makeup.

Smiling woman - The smile of this woman at the well of Tezirzek shows confidence in her freedom and the serenity that a hard but happy life offers. - Niger / Ténéré / 2003

Balance - The sculptor god has chosen a huge space under the sky for the exhibition of his work. Admission is free for all who endeavor to come here. - Niger / between Aïr and Ténéré / 2000

Silent sands - Listen to the song of the dunes, a mysterious symphony of souls and bodies. - Niger / Ténéré / Arakao / 1992

Niger - caravan in the evening light - Erg Izane

Azalaï is the name given to the caravans that transport salt from Bilma to Agadez. The route is strenuous and dangerous even for the dromedaries, as proved by this skeleton in the foreground.

Young woman from the Kanouri ethnic group in the Kaouar region, Ténéré (Niger). Noteworthy is her traditional silver nose ring depicting a snake biting its tail. Equally frequent are the unavoidable black flies, which pervade everyday life in the Sahara.

At the edge of the Ténéré (Niger), the wind avidly shapes the beautiful dunes of Temet. This sea of sand is only limited by the high mountains of the Aïr in the distance.

In the Aïr, a pathfinder on foot looks for the best way to cross the dunes. - Erg Izane / Aïr / Niger

These two giraffes, etched into a rock ledge, are 6.50 m tall and were engraved around 8000 b.C. (Dabous site, Western Aïr Mountains, Niger).

Young woman from the people of Peul-Bororo at the fountain of Ekismane (Tahoua region, Niger).

A bow and arrow hunter in leather sarong: what an amazing motif to photograph! This man from the Peul-Bororo tribe was photographed in the Sahelian area of Tchin-Tabaradene, in central Niger.

A surreal lunar landscape in the middle of the Sahara: the salines of Teguidda-n-Tessoumt on the Hoggar road, which leads from the Algerian border to Agadez (Niger). The saline water is taken from the source in buckets dug in the salt-gorged sand. The sun does the rest.

The Ténéré is one of the least populated regions in the world, except here on the “salt route” from Bilma to Agadez (Niger), where loud trucks have replaced the steady, serene pace of the camel caravans.

Azalaï is the name given to the caravans that transport salt from Bilma to Agadez. The route is strenuous and dangerous even for the dromedaries, as proved by this skeleton in the foreground.

Tea time in the small village of I-n-Jitane (Niger, Erazer valley), in the middle of the Sahelian region.

This girl from the Peul-Bororo tribe, photographed here near the Ekisman well (Niger), probably descends from distant relatives from the high valley of the Nile.

Niger - salt caravan (Azelaï) between Bilma and Agadez

Niger - Tenere - View of the Adrar Chiriet

Niger - Meet a camión from Bilma in the Ténéré Desert

In the camp at Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger

Decorated hands of a Targuia in the camp at Oued Timia - Niger

Nomad children in front of their tent in the camp near El Meki near Timia - Niger

Tuareg women take care of their goats in the camp near Oued Timia - Niger

The caravan crosses the desert near the Crab’s claw - in the background the Oued Arakao - Niger

March through the dunes of Erg Izane in the area of Chiriet - Niger

Crossing the almost endless desert of Erg Izane - Niger

The camp Bechar is situated at the well of Zakkat - Niger

Finally again water - camp Toufouchi - Guelta Enghar – Niger

The Tuareg women produce richly decorated camel covers - camp Zakkat - Niger

The desert of Erg Izane doesn't seem to have an end - Niger

The caravan starts early in the morning - Adrar Bous region - Niger

Waterhole of Eres near Temet, Niger - Canisters are filled with the precious water by the Tuaregs and then transported by camels.

The caravan (Azelaï) continues its journey after having spent the night near the tree of Teneré - Niger

The salt caravan (Azelaï) about 70 km from Agadéz during a sandstorm - Niger

Bunch of grass - Enneri Blaka - Niger

This lunar landscape is the saline of Teguidda-n’Tessoumt in the Niger.

The well of Guelta Timia - Niger

The "Submarine" in the Wadi Enneri Blaka got this name thanks to its form. In this region there are many objects of rock art.

Dead tree in a landscape of dunes of Tehouak - Niger

Guelta Iffazane - Niger - Water springs from the ground and flows through several degrees into a small lake.

The Niger river (4200 km) in Niamey.

The National Museum of Niger in Niamey.

On the way to school (Dogondoutchi region).

The Mosque of Moujia, Tahoua, Niger.

Main street in Tahoua

A herd of zebu cows in the Abalak region.

Niger – Sahel - The festival among the Peul Bororo

Niger – Pulling for beauty - Peul Bororo

At the well of Ekismane, a little Bororo shepherd.

Young Peulh Bororo musician. On his side he carries a takouba, the sword of the Tuareg people

The minaret of Agadez

Niger - The Tuareg chief Abakaoua from the Aïr region

Niger - caravan in Erg Izane

Touareg caravan - On their way to a distant water source, the caravan stop before nightfall, and then the camels are fed with the hay they carry on their packs. - Niger / Ténéré / Erg Izane / 2000

Niger - Tenere - In the morning, camels are grouped

Crossing the Tagardet pass in the Aïr mountains.

Near the waterhole of Baloumat, a great boulder offers shelter.

Taguella is bread made of wheat and baked in the sand.

Between the Aïr and the Ténéré (Arakao, Niger), it is dusk in the Sahara and the “crab pincer” of the mountains suddenly forms one of the most beautiful dunes in the world.

At the edge of the Ténéré, Chef Abakaoua leads the way.

Arrival at the Kel Tédélé camp site.

Sheltered by trees at the Kel Tédélé camp site.

The pantry – or the best way to keep food out of animal reach.

Preparing tea at the Toufouchi camp site. (Aïr, Niger)

A cradle made of goat leather for little Djamila. (Toufouchi, Aïr, Niger)

A Tuareg woman, placid pride rooted in a millennia-old matriarchate. (Oued Tchioulmas, Aïr, Niger)

Mother and children at the Arali camp site. (Oued Issaouane, Aïr, Niger)

Tima using her goat´s milk to make a cheese called Tukemarine. (Toufouchi, Aïr, Niger)

Tuareg nomads selling salt cakes at the camp site. (Camp Aouï, Aïr, Niger)

White marble rising from the sands in the Kogo region. (Oued Gouloukou, Aïr, Niger)

Here at the guelta one can find the precious liquid, even when the river dries up. - Guelta Baloumat / Aïr / Niger

In the morning light, a caravan strolls in the Temet wadi - Aïr / Niger

Filling up with water for people and camels at the Takarit well. (Oued Takarit / Aïr / Niger)

«Water is life» – filling the guerba, made of goat leather. (Guelta Baloumat / Aïr / Niger)

Last efforts in the Ténéré before arriving at the well - Erg Izane / Ténéré / Niger

This Tuareg boy´s hair plaits are consecrated to Allah. - Campement Abakaoua / Puits de Faris / Tezirzek / Aïr / Niger

The guelta of Agamgam, last station before crossing the Ténéré. - Aïr / Niger

Hunter or warrior? This engraving, still unknown to the public, dates back to 3000 b.C. - Abri Ilem / Tamgak / Aïr / Niger

Rock engravings at Tanakom: Giraffes and cattle at a time when the Sahara was still green.

Tagueït prehistoric site: Was this Neolithic woman interested in fashion?

Herds of giraffes engraved on the rocks at Tagueït. - Aïr / Niger

Niger - The Tree of Tenere, a thorn acacia, today disappeared

Old ksar abandoned at Djaba in the Djado region / Niger

Niger - Oasis Chirfa - Region Djado - Women Kanuri

The Kakala salines, near Bilma - Kaouar / Niger

Niger - Salt extraction at Bilma

Untouched portrait of a worker at the Bilma saline.

Salt statues, a living eternity. A worker at the Bilma saline.

The mushroom-shaped salt is loaded onto camels for transport. - Bilma / Kaouar / Niger

Salt caravan (Azaleï) moving through the Ténéré – 600 km of desert until Agadez!

Adventure in sight - In the Sahara, buses and trucks for passenger transport are rare and fares are expensive. Between Bilma and Agadez, they follow the traditional path of salt caravans. - Niger / Ténéré / 2002

The chief’s toothbrush - Boubakar ag Mohamed does not smoke. He uses this piece of wood, taken from a very widespread bush in the Sahara called the «Abesgouin», to clean his teeth – which by no means detracts from the authority in his eyes! - Niger / Aïr / 2001

Niger - The caravan leader Mohamed ag Boubakar with his toothbrush.

Dried plant in the dunes - Erg Brousset / Ténéré / Niger

Arakao, dunes and dead tree - between Aïr and Ténéré / Niger

Dunes in the region of Tagueït - Aïr / Niger

Arakao, dead tree - Aïr / Niger

Portrait of a young Touareg - Faris / Aïr / Niger

Dead tree at Tagueït - Aïr / Niger

Black woman from Bilma in the Kaouar valley in the desert Ténéré - Niger

White marble rising from the sands in the Kogo region. (Oued Gouloukou, Aïr, Niger)

The Tuareg Kel Tédélé - Kogo / Aïr / Niger

Oued Adjirigoudou, Takabar volcano - Aïr / Niger

The lost stone, evening - Oued Tafassasset / Ténéré

Climb to the guelta d'Agamgam - Aïr / Niger

Touareg woman at the well of Faris - Aïr / Niger

Aïr / Descent to Adrar Chiriet At the end of a long and beautiful day in the desert, the tired caravan will set up camp in the pasture, between dunes and mountains. Tomorrow will be another day.

Aïr / Dunes near Tezirzek / To the next well In the labyrinth of dunes, the guides know how to find the way to the well where they can get water for men and camels.

Erg Izane / Departure into beauty When the shadows are getting longer, they highlight the beauty of the last dunes before reaching the "blue mountains" in the Erg Izane.

Ténéré / Témète», the pet Témète», a dog of the breed azawak, precious assistant of the hunter and the shepherd, has its place in the caravan. Its name means : link between men.

Aïr / Tagueït / The guide In the desert, it is always the man of knowledge and experience who chooses the best route to preserve the resources of the caravan.

Aïr / The "taguella" Cooking the taguella owes everything to the desert. The sand acts as an oven, heated by the embers of wood carried on camels.

Erg Izane / Getting into another world The caravan is about to enter a mineral universe that is no longer the world of men but that of an intact nature where only the nomads know how to survive.

Ténéré / The long walk Beyond the dunes of Izane, the massif of Tahmert will be the point of arrival in the evening of a long and beautiful day sailing through the Sahara.

Ténéré / Erg Izane / Stop in the shadow No tree, no rock as far as the eye can see. For the rest of a few minutes, the only shadow is that of the camels, but they can only turn their backs to the sun.

Aïr / Tamgak / The relaxation In the mountains, men finally find the time and the place of a real relax where water and fire get married.

Aïr / Toufouchi / Beauties of the desert In the camps the camel-drivers find their wives dressed with their finest attires, like the sailors on their return to the harbour....

Aïr / Toufouchi / Pantry Food and cooking utensils are placed high to protect them against animals. All the containers come from nature, except the pot.

Zakkat / Building a roof In the oases, the nomads exchange meat and milk for the grain of the gardeners and the tools of the blacksmiths. The huts are often made of straw and leaves.

Aïr / Camp Chanounou / A veil of respect To guide the ancestral way of life, tradition and freedom are combined with respect for each other.

Toufouchi / Gift of the sky In the shade of a tree, swinging gently in a goat skin hanging from a supple branch, the young child is the object of all attention.

Toufouchi / The school of life In order to participate in the life of the camp, the girl learns the necessary skills at an early age so she can help the family. Here she is preparing to grind millet in a mortar.

Arakao / The reward Nestled in the heart of the desert, the site of Tchin-Taborak is a jewel like no other. Here is the image of eternity and peace of soul.

Erg Izane / Waking up in the heart of the world Immense, mystical and intimate at the same time, the deep Sahara reveals itself to those who show themselves worthy. Patience, humility and respect are the keys.

Indi Kouarodo, Toubou woman of French father (Chirfa / Niger / 1968)

Tuareg blacksmith woman (Tézirzek well / Aïr / Niger / 1992)

Wife of Chanounou, chief of a traditional Tuareg tribe (North of Aïr / Niger / 2001)

Woman wearing feathers, engraving of the horse period (Tagueït / Aïr / Niger)

«The palm of the hand does not overshadow the sun» (Tuareg proverb)

On indigo fabric background, nomad woman's hands and traditional Tuareg jewellery

Shepherdess of the Iférouane region (North-Aïr / Niger)

The trees feed the goats, which feed the nomads (Nord-Aïr / Niger)

Bitriangular person of the Garamantic era. Picketing engraving. (Enneri Blaka - Site 11 - Niger)

Azalaï in the sandstorm – Niger – Tenere

Getting into another world
The caravan is about to enter a mineral universe that is no longer the world of men but that of an intact nature where only the nomads know how to survive.
Niger - Aïr - Erg Izane - 2002

Tree of Ténéré
The Ténéré tree was a lonely acacia tree, considered to be the most isolated tree on Earth, the only one within a 400 km radius. It was an important landmark for caravans crossing the Tenere desert.
In 1973, the tree was knocked down by a Libyan truck driver, probably drunk. The dead tree was transported to the National Museum of Niger in Niamey and replaced by a simple metal sculpture representing a tree.
Niger - Tenere - 1967

Azalai in the sandstorm
Azalaï, a camel caravan led by the Tuaregs, transports various goods crossing the Ténéré desert to exchange them for rock salt or sell them on the Sahel markets. The trip usually takes place between October and November and lasts about forty days.
Niger - Tenere - 1967

Well of the Ténéré tree
At the bottom of this 36 meters deep well, the water is of poor quality, but necessary for caravaneers. It is brought to the surface by muscle power or with the help of animals.
Niger - Tenere - 1967

Salt mines
A lunar landscape in the middle of the Sahara: the salt mines of Tegguidda-n-Tessoum on the Hoggar road leading from the Algerian border to Agadéz in Niger. The saline water is led from the spring to salt-soaked sand pools. The sun does the rest of the work. As soon as the water has evaporated, the women collect the salt in large calabashes.
Niger -Tegguida-n-Tessoum - 1968

Malem
The malem is the master of the fire, the blacksmith. These artisans produce silver jewelery, weapons or camel harnesses. Here, the malem finishes a woman's bracelet.
Niger - Agadés - 1968

Fashion and tradition
Young woman of the Kanouri ethnic group in the Kaouar region, Tenere (Niger). Look at the traditional silver ring with the motif of a snake biting its tail. The hair braids are redone once a month. To make them shine, fat or oil is added. And always, as here on her forehead, you will find the inevitable black flies that spoil everyday life in the Sahara.
Niger - Séguédine - 1968

Pantry
Or how to store food out of reach of animals.
Niger - Aïr - Toufouchi camp - 2001

Entering another world
The caravan is about to enter a mineral universe that is no longer the world of men but that of an intact nature where only the nomads can survive.
Niger - Aïr - Erg Izane - 2002

Abakaoua
In his indigo outfit, chief Abakaoua ag Kanom, a symbol of the stubborn resistance of the Touareg Kel Tédélé people, proudly wears his 72 years and underlines the tenacious will of his gaze with a line of khol.
Niger - Aïr - 2003

Caravan
In the Aïr, the guide searches on foot for the best passage for his caravan through the dunes. Niger - Aïr - Erg Izane - 2000

In the morning light
Caravan in the Temet wadi.
Niger - Aïr - 2003

A disturbing vision of a mountain in the Yeï Lulu Loga region (Niger), when the south wind blows. At first it is a light breeze, then the force of the wind increases and becomes frighteningly strong. Then the shapes of things become blurred, the profile of the mountains evokes some lunar landscape. The dust mixed with the sand rises to an altitude of 3000 metres. - Chad - 1967

Neolithic arrowheads found near Berliet marker 12 near the mountains of Yeï Lulu Loga on the border with Chad - Eastern Niger - Chad - 1967

At the entrance to Enneri Blaka, a dry wadi in the Djado plateau in north-eastern Niger. It is located in the northern extension of the Kaouar Valley, which is known for its salt flats and oases such as Bilma. In its surroundings are numerous rock paintings and prehistoric relics, as well as a rock formation known as the "submarine". The Enneri Blaka ends in the large sand desert of Ténéré. About 50 km to the southwest is the well-known oasis of Chirfa. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1975

In the Enneri Blaka on the way to the submarine. - Niger - 1968

The "submarine" in the Enneri Blaka owes its name to the shape it resembles. In reality, the Enneri is a wadi, a river. In the picture you can see the four Landrovers of the 18th journey, which was led by Maximilien Bruggmann. On this trip, 3 new sites were documented. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1975

You might think you were seeing the mighty conning tower of a submarine emerging from an ocean of sand. In reality, the Enneri Blaka is a wadi, a river. But instead of water, today there is only sand. - Niger - 1975

Tracks in the sand on the way to the submarine. Two Land Rovers were involved in the 1968/1969 expedition "Mission Blaka". Seven prehistoric sites were discovered. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

The "submarine" at Enneri Blaka owes its name to the shape it resembles. Wouldn't you think you were seeing the mighty conning tower of a submarine emerging from an ocean of sand? In reality, the Enneri is a wadi, a river, but here, in the barren bed in the middle of which the strange rock rises, nothing has flowed for a very long time, and the "submarine" is fossilised forever. Seldom has a region been more severely beaten with barrenness than that in which the Blaka lies. For not the smallest shrub grows there, and the camel riders who have visited it speak of it as a hell without water and without the slightest hope of life . . . And yet shepherds once grazed their flocks here. In the camp, their peaceful life took place without clashes, and local artists decorated the walls of the abris and the smooth rock surfaces with beautiful engravings and fine paintings. The fact that one also finds depictions of hippos suggests that a lake existed nearby ... But so far there is no irrefutable evidence, such as a vertebra of a large fish found in the sand, for the correctness of this assumption. In the large abri of the "submarine", one has discovered the outstanding depiction of a hind in white and ochre, which bears an astonishing resemblance to works from the wall art of South Africa. Convergence or influence? It is impossible to answer this question with the current state of our knowledge. - Niger - 1968

Evening mood over the Enneri Blaka. View from the base camp at the submarine. - Niger - 1968

The sky in this landscape is the sky of which the poet dreams. The multicoloured palette of this still life is of incredible richness. The rock emerges from a sea of sand and although lost in the northeast of Niger, the austere beauty of the Enneri Blaka is one of those that one does not forget. - Niger - 1968

Virgin sand - view from the base camp at the submarine. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1975

View from the base camp at the submarine. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1975

"Le gran cirque" - A section of the Enneri Blaka resembles a large circle in which there are large rock formations, like islands in the sea. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

There is no more water flowing in the Wadi Enneri Blaka. Instead, the steady wind has shaped the sand into waves. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1969

The Sahara is a desert in the true sense of the word only for those who have never seen it. The slightest rain, the poorest humidity and the smallest water hole already allow for a vegetation that never ceases to amaze the traveller. And how much life then develops around the freshly sprouted plant .... Even the wind compels the weak stems of the "gazelle grass" to mark its all too constant direction, using them instead of a compass. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1975

Sand dunes and rocks in Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

Sand dunes and rocks in Enneri Blaka - Site 1 - Niger - 1968

Two line-engraved rhinoceroses. From right horn to left tail: 0.84 m. - Site 1 in the "Submarine" rock shelter. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

Sand dunes and rocks in Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

View from the site 4th - Giraffes in a stiff, decadent style were carved into the rock. The largest giraffe measures 1.05 m in height. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1967

Enneri Blaka is located in the flat Djado massif in the north-eastern part of the Republic of Niger. In 1956, the Meharists Lamothe and Moreau had discovered various rock engravings on a large, remote rock in the Enneri Blaka and reported them. When the Berliet-Ténéré mission passed by in 1960, some members made an inventory of this interesting site. They named the unusual-looking rock "Le sous-marin" (The Submarine) and called it Blaka Site 1. They discovered two other interesting sites nearby. During the T4 mission of 1966/67, we visited the three sites discovered by the Berliet mission to take film and photographs. About 1700 m north of the "submarine" we found a new station, which we called Site 4. It was a very large, hammered elephant. We could not continue our search in this area because we had too little fuel and too little time to get to the Tibesti Mountains in northern Chad. An idea was born: We should return and search the Enneri Blaka thoroughly, where we would most likely discover more new sites. In 1968/69, during the Blaka mission, another 7 stations were found and documented (See plan). Our last mission to explore Enneri Blaka took place in 1975. 3 new stations were found. By this time, a total of 14 sites had been documented.

View from the site 4th - Giraffes in a stiff, decadent style were carved into the rock. The largest giraffe measures 1.05 m in height. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

Sun-dried shrub found at site 4 - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

At "site 5 " in the Enneri Blaka area, discovered in 1968 by the Blaka expedition (led by Maximilien Bruggmann), we have preserved intact an abri, a rock niche under which Neolithic people had lived around 5000 BC. In the foreground you can see a rubbing stone left in the middle of a rubbing ground into the rock bench itself. On the other side of the valley, another reef, dry, burnt, barren. But one can easily imagine that green banks lined the river at the time when people lived in the Blaka. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

On the opposite side of the valley is site 7. It is found in the left third, to the right of the stone illuminated by the sun. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

The "West Island" in the big ring. Site 8 is located in a shelter of these rocks. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

Another view of the "West Island" in the big ring. Here the site 8 is in a shelter of these rocks. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

Sand dunes with waves and rocks in Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

The large abri with paintings at site 10 of Enneri Blaka in the Republic of Niger is another example of the localities that attracted Neolithic people. Very good details of the paintings decorating these abris can be found in images SAR-117, SAR-119 and SAR-121 of the chapter "Rock Art in the Sahara". - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

We have already shown the exterior view of the rock niche from site 10 in Enneri Blaka in the previous picture. Here is the view from the inside. Note at the top left the edge of the large painting with the cattle facing the motionless and barren desert. The cave opens towards the southeast, and from there you can see the other bank of the Enneri. This remarkable site is one of a succession of eight sites, all discovered by the Blaka expedition led by Maximilien Bruggmann in 1968. - Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

Pre-Islamic tomb in the north of Enneri Blaka. Note the Landrover of the 1975 expedition.

As here in Enneri Blaka, Niger, the sand is constantly abrading the sandstone against which it is violently hurled by the wind. Swollen by the material it has loosened, it enriches the dunes of the great erg. Over time, however, the sand from which the dunes are formed begins to solidify and become sandstone again! This is an unexpected form of self-regeneration.

Landscape between the Enneri Blaka and the Djado - Niger - 1968

The sun sets over the Ténéré; the plateau of Djado becomes a nocturnal geometry. - Niger - 1966

An old Tubu with weapon and bridle for his dromedary in a camp on the way to Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1968

At the small oasis of Chirfa, which lies on the road from Bilma to Djanet in Algeria or on the historic Bornu Road. It is a starting point for exploring the Djado plateau with the ruined city of the same name. To the east is the Enneri Blaka, a valley incision of the plateau. - Niger - 1968

In the small oasis of Chirfa, there are respectable remains of a fort from the French colonial period. - Niger - 1968

The former settlement of Djado is an oasis town in the north-east of the Ténéré Desert, which is part of the Sahara, on the south-western edge of the Djado plateau. It is the north-easternmost municipality of Niger. The settlements in the municipal area are the three villages of Chirfa, Séguédine and Yaba. Almost all around the rocky hill of Djado, which ends in steep cliffs to the west, there are pools fed by underground springs, ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Heading south from Djado, you reach the Kaouar valley. To the west, the gravel desert of the Ténéré leads to the Aïr Mountains. - Niger - 1975

Djado, standing on a peak in front of the threatening immensity of the Ténéré. The "Mont-Saint-Michel of the Sands"... This is one of the strangest sites in Niger. If you look at the walls of this medieval fortress, surrounded by rotting water, you will realise that salt is the main material. The Tibbous still come to camp on the site at the time of the date harvest, but the town itself is abandoned to the spirits, and nothing is more moving than the journey through these deserted streets in which the walls of this ancient metropolis are crumbling, one by one. Archaeologically, the site deserves serious excavation and work, but it is located in an area with very difficult access. Moreover, its former occupants were victims of its geographical situation, at the limit of the plain and the mountain, at a time when the latter was the safest refuge against the permanent threat of looters. – Niger - 1968

Almost all around the rocky hill of Djado, which ends in steep cliffs to the west, there are pools fed by underground springs, ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Heading south from Djado, you reach the Kaouar valley. To the west, the gravel desert of the Ténéré leads to the Aïr Mountains. - Niger - 1968

View from the ruins of the old Ksar onto the wide plain of the Ténéré - Niger - 1968

Almost all around the rocky hill of Djado, which ends in steep cliffs to the west, there are pools fed by underground springs, ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Heading south from Djado, you reach the Kaouar valley. To the west, the gravel desert of the Ténéré leads to the Aïr Mountains. - Niger - 1968

Two Kanuri women with child in the Maman Delaï camp near Chirfa in Djado - Niger - 1968

Tubu women dressed in splendid robes in front of their tent in the Maman Delaï camp near Chirfa in Djado - Niger - 1968

Young Tubu woman in the Maman Delaï camp near Chirfa in Djado - Niger - 1968

The former chief of the Chirfa district, photographed in the Maman Delaï camp near Chirfa in Djado - Niger - 1966

In Chirfa in eastern Niger, Indi Kouarodo shows us a different pattern of African beauty. The rich ornamentation of her garment comes from nearby Libya. - Djado - Niger - 1968

Young Kanouri woman in the village of Anney in the Kaouar valley - Niger - 1968

Near the ruins of the residential castle or "Ksar" Djaba, we reach the overwhelming rocky landscape of Orida. Large witness mountains rise everywhere from the light sand. The rock pinnacles and towers, up to 400 metres high, rising steeply from the sand, make a grandiose impression. - Djado - Niger - 1975

Near the ruins of the residential castle or "Ksar" Djaba, we reach the overwhelming rocky landscape of Orida. Large witness mountains rise everywhere from the light sand. The rock pinnacles and towers, up to 400 metres high, rising steeply from the sand, make a grandiose impression. - Djado - Niger - 1968

Near the ruins of the residential castle or "Ksar" Djaba, we reach the overwhelming rocky landscape of Orida. Large witness mountains rise everywhere from the light sand. The rock pinnacles and towers, up to 400 metres high, rising steeply from the sand, make a grandiose impression. - Djado - Niger - 1975

The Kaouar valley runs in a north-south direction and is about 160 kilometres long. The oasis villages of Séguédine (salt production), Anney, Dirkou and Bilma (salt production) are located in the Kaouar valley, which is cut up to 100 metres deep. In the northern extension of the Kaouar valley is Enneri Blaka, known for its prehistoric rock paintings. - In the background of the picture, the Pic Zoumri near Séguédine. - Kaouar - Niger - 1968

Near Séguédine, in the middle of the desert, rises the Pic Zoumri, about 150 m high. It is a mountain of witnesses. - Kaouar - Niger - 1968

Two Addax antelopes running through the desert near Séguédine - Kaouar - Niger - 1966

Séguédine, the old salt town. It used to be called Sogodem and derived its wealth from the salt mines. Today it is a slowly dying oasis on the edge of the Ténéré. A few sedentary people, the Kanouri, lead a destitute existence here. – Kaouar – Niger – 1966

Young canoe woman from Séguédine. Like the tubu women, she wears a ring in the right wing of her nose, which represents a snake curling in a circle. The fine plaits of the hairstyle are re-braided about once a month. Grease or oil is added to make them shiny. – Kaouar – Niger – 1966

The beauty of the gesture of this young Kanuri woman, captured by the lens in Séguédine (Niger), should not make us forget that she is using an authentic prehistoric millstone to crush the grain used to prepare the flour from which we make the pita bread or the tasty couscous. Her gesture is the same as that of her distant ancestors, the same gesture that has also been preserved for us in Egyptian bas-reliefs. This primitive millstone, or "standing millstone", on which the grinder slides to crush the grain, must not be confused with the small Arab stone mill made up of two millstones, one, mobile, rubbing on the other, fixed, by rotation around a common axis. – Kaouar – Niger – 1966

Young canoe woman from Séguédine. Like the tubu women, she wears a ring in the right wing of her nose, which represents a snake curling in a circle. The fine plaits of the hairstyle are re-braided about once a month. Grease or oil is added to make them shiny. – Kaouar – Niger – 1975

Kanouri woman with her traditional nose ring, Séguédine oasis - Kaouar - Niger - 1975

In November 1960, this signpost number 13 was erected near Séguédine by the Berliet Mission - Kaouar - Niger - 1975

Bilma is located in the Kaouar Valley in the Ténéré desert. The place is an oasis with numerous shallow smaller lakes and streams leading to them. Numerous fish cavort in the waters. There is a phenomenon in the entire Kaouar Valley: salt water and fresh water push upwards at short intervals. Due to complex fracture tectonics in this part of the Ténéré Desert, water from great depths penetrates sloping rock layers through artesian pressure. Where it flows through saline layers from the Cretaceous period, it reaches the surface as a saline solution and, after being greatly reduced by evaporation, is used for salt production. Otherwise, the date palms use the groundwater and therefore do not need any additional irrigation. - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1968

Calotropis procera is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae that is native to North Africa, tropical Africa, Western Asia, South Asia, and Indochina. The green fruits contain a toxic milky sap that is extremely bitter and turns into a gluey coating which is resistant to soap. Common names for the plant include Apple of Sodom. The locals call him Torha. - Bilma – Kaouar – Ténéré - 1975

In Bilma, salt is extracted using a very old method, by evaporating the brine in holes. - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

In Bilma, salt is extracted using a very old method, by evaporating the brine in holes. In the background you can see salt domes and resting dromedaries before they set off with the Azalaï to Agadez. - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1968

Salt worker at the Kalala salt works near Bilma. - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Bilma, an important town in the Kaouar, owes its peculiar social and commercial traditions to its difficult geographical location. The picture shows a woman shaping "salt loaves", so-called "household packs". In fact, this quantity is used by families as a unit of account, much like the sugar stick, and it is remarkable that consumers often do not know the weight of either. More extensive forms of trade are brought by caravans to Agadez and are mainly used for animals. - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1968

Salt statues, a living eternity. - Salt workers in the Kalala salt works near Bilma. - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Untouched portrait of a worker at the Bilma saline. – Kaouar – Ténéré – Niger – 1975

The grey-yellow kantu, which are produced in cone form as cattle salt and weigh about 25 kg, are reminiscent of slightly oversized traffic pylons. The shape comes from the fact that hollowed-out palm stalks serve the salt workers as moulds for drying the salt. About three quarters of the salt produced is made as Kantu salt. - Bilma - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1968

The grey-yellow kantu, which are produced in cone form as cattle salt and weigh about 25 kg, are reminiscent of slightly oversized traffic pylons. The shape comes from the fact that hollowed-out palm stalks serve the salt workers as moulds for drying the salt. Another product form of salt is the so-called fotschi (foschi) (in the background), salt loaves shaped by women in enamel bowls, weighing up to about 2 kg and mostly consisting of beza, crystallised, relatively pure salt that is used as table salt. About three quarters of the salt produced is kantu salt, one quarter is beza salt. - Bilma - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

The grey-yellow kantu, which are produced in cone form as cattle salt and weigh about 25 kg, are reminiscent of slightly oversized traffic pylons. The shape comes from the fact that hollowed-out palm stalks serve the salt workers as moulds for drying the salt. About three quarters of the salt produced is made as Kantu salt. - Bilma - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1968

Packing the blocks requires a special skill and is done while the traders discuss the terms of the trade. Once an agreement is reached, the salt blocks are loaded onto the camels. - Bilma - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Packing the blocks requires a special skill and is done while the traders discuss the terms of the trade. Once an agreement is reached, the salt blocks are loaded onto the camels. - Bilma - Kaouar - Ténéré - Niger - 1968

The Azalaï or salt caravan is the event of the year for the nomads. It always follows the same route because of the rarity of water points. The drivers believe that the trik el-meleh has existed since time immemorial ... In the past, the big caravans included up to 3000 camels. In our days, they number 500 to 1000. The stages stretch over almost 40 kilometres per day, and the load of an animal rarely weighs more than 80 to 100 kilograms. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

And the caravan moves on, untouched, it seems, by fatigue, thirst and sandy winds. Never does the leader lose his way, of which he knows every dune, every bend. But sometimes, consumed by his too great efforts, a camel falls as if struck by lightning. It will not rise again. Often, not only must the animal be abandoned, but also its burden left behind if no replacement camels follow the convoy. And all along the track, white skeletons, slowly buried by the sand, mark the harsh ordeal of the peaceful "desert ships". - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The Arbre du Ténéré from a distance! This tree was an umbrella thorn acacia (Acacia tortilis) that was considered the most isolated tree on earth - supposedly the only one within a radius of 400 kilometres, other data mention 150 km. It was probably the last surviving tree of a group of trees that grew up when the desert was less dry than at present. The tree stood alone for several decades. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

During the winter of 1938/39, a shaft was dug near the "Arbre du Ténéré", it turned out that the tree had reached the water table at a depth of 33 to 36 metres. In 1939, the officer Michel Lesourd, stationed in French West Africa, wrote about the solitary tree: "One must have seen the tree to believe its existence. What is its secret? How can it still remain undeserted, despite the multitude of dromedaries near it? How come no camel eats its leaves and buds? Why don't the many Tuareg salt caravans cut its branches and use them as firewood for making tea? The only answer is that this tree is taboo and so respected by caravans." - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The acacia was knocked down in 1973 by an - allegedly drunken - truck driver. The then lieutenant and later state president Ali Saibou brought the remains of the Arbre du Ténéré in a military van to Niamey to the Niger National Museum on 8 November 1973, where they have been exhibited in their own pavilion since 1977. A tree-like structure made of metal pipes was erected at the site of the acacia, and chrome-plated hubcaps were later attached to its "branches" as reflectors for the night drivers. In 1998, Katsuyuki Shinohara erected the metal sculpture "Lighthouse of the Desert", with glass elements as optical and wind harps as acoustic orientation signs. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

At the Arbre du Ténéré there are two wells, one with bad water, possibly from a carcass that fell into it. The salt caravans use this place as a night camp. The nomads' campsite near the well is called Ad Azzaouagger. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The well by the tree of Ténéré. The mediocre water is found at a depth of 36 metres and is brought up by hand by the Tuareg or Toubou men of the caravans. A few metres further on is a second well, but unusable: a camel has fallen in. – Ténéré – Niger - 1966

The adaptation to dry climates enables dromedaries to live in desert areas. They have the ability to go for long periods without water because they can store a lot of water in their bodies. The dorsal hump contains fat stores that the animal can burn to gain energy when food is scarce. Although the dromedary does not store water in its hump, it does store it in its stomach as needed. The kidneys reabsorb much of the fluid by concentrating the urine heavily. Most of the fluid is also removed from the faeces before excretion. In ten minutes, the dromedary can regain its body weight lost through sweating by absorbing water. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

A Kanouri from a Bilma caravan. He is taking advantage of a stop at the tree of Ténéré to pound millet. On the left, the clay vessel in which he will cook his midday meal. – Ténéré – Niger - 1966

Once at the well, water must be drawn, but it is so deep down that a wooden winding roller made on the spot is needed. The hole of the pulley is drilled with the help of an iron rod made red-hot in a camel dung fire. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The caravan has made life possible for people in the desert thanks to the camel. In the inhuman aridity of the Ténéré, it is always surprising to find an azalaï, a salt caravan. The blocks of salt it loads have the strange shape of an automobile piston, the rod of which is a little thick ... Each block is wrapped in a mat of palm leaves, because the camels have to be unloaded every evening and reloaded every morning. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The Azalaï or salt caravan is the event of the year for the nomads. It always follows the same route because of the rarity of water points. The drivers believe that the trik el-meleh has existed since time immemorial ... In the past, the big caravans included up to 3000 camels. In our days, they number 500 to 1000. The stages stretch over almost 40 kilometres per day, and the load of an animal rarely weighs more than 80 to 100 kilograms. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The Azalaï or salt caravan is the event of the year for the nomads. It always follows the same route because of the rarity of water points. The drivers believe that the trik el-meleh has existed since time immemorial ... In the past, the big caravans included up to 3000 camels. In our days, they number 500 to 1000. The stages stretch over almost 40 kilometres per day, and the load of an animal rarely weighs more than 80 to 100 kilograms. Paradoxically, the caravan leader walks the entire distance. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The salt caravan moves on. The 600 km distance between Bilma and Agadez is covered in 16 to 20 days. - Ténéré - Niger - 1966

The Azalaï, the salt caravan, in the Ténéré sandstorm. It carries Bilma's salt with it; 600 kilometres and three weeks of travel separate Bilma from Agadez. From Agadez, the salt continues towards Tahoua, Tanout and In-Gall, where it is exchanged for the products of the south. – Ténéré – Niger - 1966

Tufts of grass in the desert in the southern Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Achegour is a regionally important water point on the northern Aïr-Bilma route between the Arbre du Ténéré and Dirkou in the Kaouar valley in northern Niger. The well is located in the middle of a sandy depression of the Falaise mountain range of Achegouar in the Ténéré desert. The water level is about 2-3 m deep. The water is slightly salty, but drinkable. Camels, however, drink the water only reluctantly. There are several acacias and tamarisk trees at the well of Achegour. - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Balise 19 of Mission Berliet can be found in the north of Niger, on the Gara Toubeau hill in the Agadez region. Its coordinates are 21°38'9" N 9°57'4" E. - Niger - 1975

Point 5 is located in the Oued Toubeau Tafassasset, south of Balise 19 of the Berliet mission. - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Balise 17 of Mission Berliet is located in the north of Niger, south of Adrar Bous in the Agadez region. The coordinates are 20°14'3" N 8°57'6" E. - Niger - 1975

Landscape photo from the Adrar Bous area - West Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Témet is a dry valley in the Agadez region. It runs from Mont Gréboun in the high mountains of Aïr to the Ténéré desert to the east. In rainy years, a lake can form in the desert. But the extreme temperatures soon cause it to dry up. - Témet - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Témet is a dry valley in the Agadez region. It runs from Mont Gréboun (1944 m) in the high mountains of Aïr to the Ténéré desert to the east. In Témet are the highest sand dunes of the Ténéré, which can reach a height of 300 metres. - Témet - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Témet is a dry valley in the Agadez region. The only water source in the valley, which often dries up in the dry season, is located in the upper part at Mont Gréboun. In rainy years, a diverse flora with a Mediterranean flavour can develop. - Témet - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

At sunset, the shadow of a rare stone points north-east. - Niger - Ténéré - 1975

Erosion form from the Adrar Bous area - West Ténéré - Niger - 1975

The "Rocher Toubeau" is a rock in the middle of the desert in the north of Niger, near the border with Algeria. A lone bird has perched on it to rest. - North Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Dead tree in the dry valley of Témet in the Agadez region. - Témet - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Camel breeding is the occupation of the noble. In reality, they are dromedaries in the Sahara, but they have been called camels for centuries. Up to the age of three or four, the camel stays in the pasture. Then it starts to be trained. Between six and eight years, it is put to work. Male animals are usually used for the large caravans. – Niger - 1966

Camel market in In-Gall in Aïr (Republic of Niger). As in all marketplaces in Africa, people haggle extensively. The Tuareg are very vain. They often wear bracelets made of stone, e.g. serpentine, slate or limestone, above their elbows. The man in the white gandura on the left has a braid hanging from the litham on either side of his head, a custom typical of the Aïr. – Niger - 1966

Each tribe has its own special mark that it burns on the animals to be able to recognise them if they get lost. – Niger - 1966

Agadez in Niger is an important town, overlooked by a strange mosque 30 metres high. The houses are built of brown mud bricks. Agadez is the administrative capital of the Aïr mountain region. – Niger - 1968

«Modern» Tuareg woman in the streets of Agadez. The coloured umbrella protects from the sun and gives great dignity. – Niger - 1966

The interior of a house in Agadez (Niger). The women are admirably skilled in leather handicrafts, which they decorate with geometric patterns. These leather pieces are assembled into a tasufra, a sack that is hung on the camel's saddle and filled with clothes and various utensils when moving around. – Niger - 1966

The blacksmith, the malem, is the master of fire. He makes the silver jewellery, the weapons, the camel harnesses. Here the malem is putting the finishing touches to a woman's bracelet. The blacksmiths form a caste of their own. They are despised and at the same time feared by sedentary and nomadic people. – Niger - 1966

Tuareg girl from In Abangarit, northwest of Agadez - Niger - 1966

This flooded moonscape is the Taggui-da-n'Tessoum saltworks in Niger ... Lye stagnates in every hole, which yields the valuable salt through evaporation. The European who visits the place for the first time, however, cannot help but notice the pestilential stench of the greenish waters standing in the sun, and he will also notice that certain insects seem to adapt to the salt content. Be that as it may, the workers employed in this industry have legs covered with ulcers caused by the brine in which they wade up to their knees. There are different qualities of salt, and it comes in several forms, from lumps to patties to ingots. Chemically, it is rarely very pure. As a vital substance for humans and animals, salt remains one of the products that justify the last caravans. It serves as highly valued barter money. – Niger – 1966

Salt mines of Tegguiddan-Tessoum in the northwest of Agadez, Niger. Salt mixed with earth is extracted from the surrounding salt pans and dissolved in water, in this type of salt pans. Once the water has evaporated, the salt is collected by the women in wide gourds. – Niger – 1966

Tegguiddan-Tessoum. Salt extraction is gruelling work under the Saharan sun. – Niger – 1966

Salt mines of Tegguiddan-Tessoum in the northwest of Agadez, Niger. Salt mixed with earth is extracted from the surrounding salt pans and dissolved in water, in this type of salt pans. Once the water has evaporated, the salt is collected by the women in wide gourds. – Niger – 1966

This prehistoric millstone was found in the north of Erg Bréard. It is located east of the Aïr Mountains in the Ténéré. - Niger - 1975

Stone mill found near site 11 in Enneri Blaka - Niger - 1975

These pottery sherds come from the Adrar Bous area - West Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Probably the most common evidence of the Neolithic in the Sahara are arrowheads. - The polished axe must have been the primary weapon or implement of Neolithic man. Thousands of them have been found, and the beauty of its shape and the fine grain of the minerals chosen are a source of admiration. – Site 1 - Enneri Blaka - Niger – 1975

These prehistoric pottery shards and bones come from the Adrar Bous area - West Ténéré - Niger - 1975

The pottery is little known, but the beautiful piece from Ehi Mounto (Niger), 25 centimetres high, proves that the craft had reached an unusually high degree of perfection, at least in some places, far from being in decline. The black, very homogeneous clay had made it possible to produce a pottery in which the wall thickness did not exceed 3 millimetres at half height! (IFAN Collection, Dakar, Senegal) - 1969

A weaver demonstrates his manual skills in the Niamey museum - Niger - 1970

The town of Filingué is located northeast of the capital Niamey, on the border of the transition zone between the Sahel and the Sahara. - Decorated house in Filingué - Niger - 1970

Filingué is located in a zone where agropastoralism is practised. The large market of Filingué is mainly used by pastoralists and millet farmers, members of the Fulbe and Tuareg ethnic groups. The town's inhabitants struggle with poor nutrition, lack of access to drinking water and problems with water drainage in rainy seasons. - Water transport by calabash - Niger - 1970

Water is an absolute necessity, but in general it is neither so scarce nor so inaccessible that one cannot live in its comforting proximity. The charming image of the water-carriers of Tebaram, between Tahoua and Filingue (Niger), brings to our attention one of the main occupations of the Saharan nomads: obtaining the precious liquid, transporting it and storing it. The calabashes indicate a semi-sedentary tribe, because the caravan driver uses a tube made of goatskin, the famous gerba. Before each departure, it is the one that demands all attention: One is loaded onto each camel to prevent them all being lost or damaged together, one inspects its condition, its stitching, the straps that hold its closure and the ropes on which it hangs. Rightly so - after all, a single carelessness can mean death. - Niger - 1970

Nomads on the move north of Filingué - Niger - 1970

A young Fula woman at the well of Tébaram, located in an area where agropastoralism is predominant. - Niger - 1970

Richly decorated house in Tahoua, an important trading centre. The large market is a meeting place for the different ethnic groups every Sunday. - Niger - 1970

Women carrying their household goods on their heads - Tahoua - Niger - 1970

A herd of goats rests by a pool formed during the rainy season. 46 km north-east of Tahoua - Niger - 1970

This Touareg needs an umbrella to protect it from the sun. - Near Tabalak in the northern Sahel. - Niger - 1970

As a means of transport, these two Touaregs from the Tabalak region need a dromedary. The use of an umbrella is unusual. - Niger - 1970

In front of the Tabalak pond, Niger, the two Tuaregs on their camels form a striking contrast: one could better imagine them in the gorges of the Tassili. The trees are dead, although their roots are in the water. This is due to the fact that a pool is by definition temporary and can form after a rain that fell years after the last one. Combine this with the fact that when pasture becomes scarce, shepherds cut off all the branches that still have some leaves on them for the needs of their flock. The terrible drama in the Sahel has been made much worse by this custom. - Niger - 1970

In front of the Tabalak pond, Niger, these Tuaregs on their camels form a striking contrast: one could better imagine them in the gorges of the Tassili. The trees are dead, although their roots are in the water. This is due to the fact that a pool is by definition temporary and can form after a rain that fell years after the last one. Combine this with the fact that when pasture becomes scarce, shepherds cut off all the branches that still have some leaves on them for the needs of their flock. The terrible drama in the Sahel has been made much worse by this custom. - Niger - 1970

The lens has captured the biblical-like image of the bozo riding to the well of Ekisman. It has often been overlooked that cattle also served as pack animals and as such played a major role in Saharan civilisation. - Niger - 1970

At the well of Ekisman - Early practice for those who want to become real shepherds. - Niger - 1970

At the well of Ekisman - Early practice for those who want to become a real shepherdess. - Niger - 1970

Girls as well as boys help to bring the cattle to the drinking trough. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Thirst is quenched directly at the well - Ekisman - Niger - 1970

You can even use the precious water from Eskiman's well to wash your hair. - Niger - 1970

Joining forces makes it easier to lift the water bag - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Girls as well as boys help to bring the cattle to the drinking trough. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Overview of the well of Ekismane. The herders distribute the water to the watering troughs. The cattle wait for their turn. - Niger - 1970

With the help of the dromedary, the water is lifted while the cattle wait patiently until they are led to the watering place. A spectacle that is repeated daily. - Well of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

After watering, the cattle are returned to the surrounding pastures. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Cattle wait patiently in the midday heat until they are led to the drinking trough - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Peul Bororo men on the way to the well of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

In Ekisman, there is again the long wait of the cattle, who have become dependent on man, who seeks the sparse water in the bowels of the earth. This waiting can be seen in the eyes of the animals, the atmosphere is oppressive, dusty, and the work of the herdsmen exhausting. Certainly, the drying up of the drinking trough is also related to the number of animals that quench their thirst at it, and there are also waterholes that dry up only during a few weeks before each rainy season, but you can count them on your fingers. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

The household goods of a Fula family - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

A Peul Bororo woman mends a garment in the tent. She wears an amazing amount of silver rings on her ears. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

The irreproachability of their bearing stems partly from the fact that they learn very early to carry heavy loads on their heads. Typical of their breed, apart from the graceful gesture of this Bororo carrier, are the very large eyes, the delicacy of the mouth and the rather oriental imprint of the head. The ears, pierced all along the rim by many holes, allow to wear amazing amounts of silver rings. - Fountain of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

The irreproachability of their bearing stems partly from the fact that they learn very early to carry heavy loads on their heads. Typical of their breed, apart from the graceful gesture of this Bororo carrier, are the very large eyes, the delicacy of the mouth and the rather oriental imprint of the head. The ears, pierced all along the rim by many holes, allow to wear amazing amounts of silver rings. Two cords serve to hold two different collections of amulets, to which . . . Safety pins are added! The chignon, worn over the forehead, recalls the Phrygian hairstyle of figures in rock paintings in the Tassili. - Fountain of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

Woman from the Peul-Bororo people at the well of Ekisman. The Bororo are animists and live in an endogamous society where you only marry within your own clan, so they are considered the "purest" Peul people. - Well of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

Mariam is a Peul Bororo woman. The Bororo tribe is fundamentally animistic and forms an endogamous society. Marriages are therefore necessarily within the group, so the Bororo consider themselves the "purest" of the Peulh. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

The woman plays a very important role in the society of the Peul (Fula), and she has a lot of freedom, but she also respects the customs of her race that have come down to her from the ancestors. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Who radiates more joie de vivre than this young Bororo woman? Typical of her costume are the small bodice that leaves part of the body uncovered, the heavy earrings, the amulets worn on the chest. Married for two years, this peul woman still has no child, for these prudent, balanced people have been practising a kind of birth control for a very long time, with the virtue of the simple having the greatest effect. The woman plays a very important role in the society of the Peul (Fula), and she has a lot of freedom, but she also respects the customs of her race that have come down to her from the ancestors. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul. At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

Until a few decades ago, ethnography did not credit the Peul (Fula) with a prehistoric origin; but we did not yet know what prehistory has since revealed to us. This Bororo Peul, found between Abalak and In Gall, is a descendant of the Neolithic cattle herders. Although dark-skinned, but copper-coloured rather than black, the Peul may well be the heirs of the Neolithic people of Sudanese tradition, who had emerged from the mixture of several races, at least one of which came from the Mediterranean area. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul (Fula). At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul. At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

Until a few decades ago, ethnography did not credit the Peul (Fula) with a prehistoric origin; but we did not yet know what prehistory has since revealed to us. This Bororo Peul, found between Abalak and In Gall, is a descendant of the Neolithic cattle herders. Although dark-skinned, but copper-coloured rather than black, the Peul may well be the heirs of the Neolithic people of Sudanese tradition, who had emerged from the mixture of several races, at least one of which came from the Mediterranean area. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul (Fula). At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul. At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

A Bororo herdsman in typical posture at the well of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

The bow is one of the "revolutionary" developments of the Neolithic. It had the same consequences for its owners as the first rifles. The posture of the Bororo-Peul hunter dressed in leather testifies to the permanence of the traditional gesture, holding his bow much like the one on the rock painting of Jabbaren, Tassili n' Ajjer. - Fountain of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

A flute player replaces the orchestra and supports the chorus of dancers with his instrument. The beat is given to him by clapping hands. The women, prize of this peaceful competition, show a very seductive demeanour ... - Fountain of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

A young Bororo with his typical features at the well of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

A proud Bororo lady with her typical features at the well of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

This simple tent is the dwelling of a family Bororo - Ekisman well - Niger - 1970

This young girl from the Peul-Bororo people, photographed near the well of Ekisman, may be descended from distant relatives on the upper reaches of the Nile. - Niger - 1970

It has often been overlooked that cattle also served as pack animals and as such played a major role in the civilisation of the Sahara. As a rider we find the same girl as in the previous photo. - Well of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

Typical of their breed are the tattoos on the Bororo's face. The ears, pierced all along the rim by many holes, allow to wear amazing amounts of silver rings. Strings around the neck are used to hold various collections of amulets. - Fountain of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

Cattle at the well of Ekisman at sunset - Niger - 1970

This young Peul wears the typical hat of the Zinder region - Southern Niger - 1970

South of Agadez, on the road to Zinder, lies the village of Tanout. Members of sub-groups of the Kanuri, Fula (Peul) and Tuareg ethnic groups live in this area, all of them mainly practising agropastoralism. This Peul-Bororo woman radiates beauty and elegance. - Tanout - Niger - 1970

South of Agadez, on the road to Zinder, lies the village of Tanout. Members of subgroups of the Kanuri, Fula (Peul) and Tuareg ethnic groups live in this area, all of them practising mainly agropastoralism. This Peul-Bororo woman with her youngest child on her back radiates beauty and elegance. - Tanout - Niger - 1970

To the east of the Aïr Mountains lies the Ténéré Desert. One part of this desert is the Erg Brousset with the Adrar Madet, a small mountain range. On the way there, you may encounter the lorries that connect Bilma to Agadez. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2002

To the east of the Aïr Mountains lies the Ténéré Desert. One part of this desert is the Erg Brousset with the Adrar Madet, a small mountain range. On the way there, you may encounter the lorries that connect Bilma to Agadez. The lorries are packed with goods and a large number of passengers on top. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2002

An Azalaï, a salt caravan, is still travelling between Bilma and Agadez. But for how much longer? Soon they will be completely replaced by lorries. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2002

A group of Tuareg nomads have completed their barter transactions near Adrar Madet and are getting ready to return to the Aïr Mountains. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2002

Departure of the caravan. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2002

The caravan forms up for departure. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2002

The caravan leaves the Adrar Madet in a westerly direction. About 70 kilometres lead through the Erg Brousset to the foothills of the Aïr Mountains. - Adrar Madet - Niger - 2000

The caravan begins with the crossing of Erg Brousset. - Niger - 2001

Late afternoon in Erg Brousset. - Niger - 2000

Citrullus Colocynthis: In the ouadis or valleys, you can easily find large patches of small pumpkins or watermelons. They are round balls scattered on the ground. Some are fresh, others are dried. You are not allowed to eat them, but they are used for medicinal purposes. For rheumatism, as a laxative, for gonorrhoea, for urinary tract infections, for diabetes... - On the edge of Erg Brousset - Niger - 2000

In the desert, it is always the man of knowledge and experience who chooses the best way to obtain the caravan's resources. - End of the crossing of Erg Brousset. Abakaoua, the Tuareg chief, leads the caravan to the sand dunes of Tagueït. - Niger - 2001

This boulder is located in the Oued Tâfidet in the transition zone between the Aïr Mountains and the Ténéré Desert - Niger - 1992

This boulder is located in the Oued Ibil in the transition zone between the Aïr Mountains and the Ténéré Desert - Niger - 1992

These rock needles were put there by human hands. However, it is not known what they mean. - Oued Ibill - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The sand dunes at the entrance to Wadi Tagueït. - Niger - 1992

In the region of Tagueït - Aïr - Niger - 1999

On the way to the Tagueït waterhole - Niger - 2000

The dromedaries are led to the nearby well of Ibil, where they can quench their thirst. - Tagueït - Niger 2002

The dromedaries have quenched their thirst in nearby Ibil and return to the camp at Tagueït. - Niger 2002

Landscape with tree, bushes and dune near Tagueït. See next photo. - Niger - 1992

10 years later! Landscape with tree, bushes and dune near Tagueït - Niger - 2002

Landscape near Tagueït - Aïr - Niger - 2001

This fresco of giraffes, remarkable for the stencilling and line engraving it required, does not date from the same period as the two figures, including an archer, preceding the herd, which appear to be much more recent. The main animals are between 0.60 m and 0.80 m tall. The rock itself is 2.40 m long. - Tagueït – Aïr – Niger - 2002

Rock engraving, found on the left side of the Wadi Tagueït. - Niger - 2001

Site of the rock engraving on the edge of the Ténéré desert - The man of Tagueït - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Man of Tagueït - Rock engraving on the edge of the Ténéré desert - Aïr - Niger - 2000

These giraffes can be found in the lower part of the Oued Tagueït. Do they come from the pastoral period? - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the lower part of the Oued Tagueït - end of the pastoral period. Five highly stylised giraffes. From the head to the base of the legs of the largest giraffe: 0.95 metres. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the lower part of the Oued Tagueït - Punched giraffe and ostriches on boulders. Height of the stone: 0.50 m. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan approaches Anakom, another site of rock engravings - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Landscape near Anakom - Aïr - Niger - 2000

It can take thousands of years for the solid rock to turn into mobile sand. - At Anakom - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Still life in the Oued Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Life and death - Still life in the Oued Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Where there is enough moisture, plants can sprout - Oued Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The Guelta Anakom, a water source between rock faces on the eastern slope of the Takolokouzet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

In the camp at Guelta Anakom - A saddle has to be repaired - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Abakaoua, the chief of the Tuareg tribe Tel-Kédélé - Oued Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Descent over the dunes of Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Descent to the Oued Tanakom - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Travelling between Anakom and Agamgam - Descent over the dunes of Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Still life in the dunes of Tanakom - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan en route to Agamgam - The dunes of Torguit - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan on the Takolokouzet plateau - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A herd of goats in the upper part of the Oued Agamgam, descending from the high plateau of Takolokouzet - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The caravan descending from the Takolokouzet plateau - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A herd of goats descending from the high plateau of Takolokouzet - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Descent to the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The caravan stops at Guelta Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The dromedaries quench their thirst at the Guelta Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Passage through the Agamgam Gorge - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Evening atmosphere in the camp at Guelta Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

In the evening light the caravan reaches the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan in the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

An acacia tree in the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The same acacia tree in the Oued Agamgam, seven years later - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Landscape in the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The Guelta Agamgam between rock faces - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Dromedary camels fetch water in Guelta Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Evening atmosphere in the camp at Guelta Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Passage through the Agamgam Gorge - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The feet of a Tuareg nomad - Guelta Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Mobile pantry in the camp at Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Camp Agamgam - Pumpkin container that is usually filled with milk, yoghurt or cream cheese. - Aïr - Niger - 1992

In Camp Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1992

A grasshopper in the bushes in the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Landscape in the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The caravan reaches the Oued Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The valley of Tafajrit near Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

In the valley of Tafajrit near Agamgam - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The caravan between Agamgam and Tafajrit - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Camp Tafajrit - The dromedaries eat the greenery from the sparse trees - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The caravan in the Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The caravan passes through the exit of a canyon into the Arakao. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Balance - The sculpting god has chosen an immense open-air space for the exhibition of his works. Admission is free for all who make the effort to come here. - Tideloukoumt between Aïr and Ténéré - Niger - 1999

Stone mill in the middle of the Arakao - Aïr - Niger – 1999

Nomad grave in the middle of the Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Punched giraffe and cattle on a boulder between Arakao and the grotto at the big dune - Aïr - Niger - 2002

There are many rock engraving sites in the Oued Arakao. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Dunes in Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The Arakao region is part of the Aïr mountain range, which is one of the most heavily forested areas in the Sahara. But on the border with the Ténéré and its dunes, the already sparse vegetation disappears abruptly. - Aïr - Niger - 1992

A Moulay Moulay bird sits on a dead tree stump in the middle of the Arakao. - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Arakao dunes and the remains of a dead tree - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Light and shadow - Day breaks in Arakao. Nothing will disturb the silence of the shadow and the oppressive rigidity of the light - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Afternoon in the Arakao. The shadows trace the majesty of the dunes on the sand - Tideloukoumt - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Dunes at Tideloukoumt - On the border between Ténéré and Aïr, the Arakao mountains mark the horizon and are the destination of a long day's march for the caravan. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Near Tideloukoumt in the Arakao region - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Shadows of life, shadows of death in the solitude of the desert. - Near Tideloukoumt in the Arakao region - Aïr - Niger - 1999

As a scout, the guide Abakaoua explores the narrow passage that leads to the top of the Ifiniyane dunes. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

After a long day's march, the dromedaries are led to the drinking trough. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

On the way we collect food for the dromedaries. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Lone tree in the area of Tineken in the Arakao. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

The day's hike is coming to an end. We soon reach the camp site for the night. - Tineken - Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Landscape with tree and dunes in Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 1992

In the Arakao dunes, the approaching darkness drives the gold of the sand into the arms of a cobalt-coloured sky. - Aïr - Niger - 1999

At the edge of the Ténéré, at the end of the Oued Arakao, there is a natural, circular mountain range: the Crab Claw. The caravan crosses this area, which is dotted with sand dunes. - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Still life at the edge of the Crab Claw - Aïr - Niger - 2000

At the edge of the Ténéré, at the end of the Oued Arakao, there is a natural, circular mountain range: the Crab Clow. The caravan crosses this area, which is dotted with sand dunes. - Aïr - Niger - 2000

In the camp at the Crab Claw at the end of the Oued Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 2000

A Targia in the camp at the Crab Claw at the end of the Oued Arakao - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Crossing the Crab Claw on the edge of the Ténéré - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Sand wind in the Crab Claw at the edge of the Ténéré - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The caravan crosses the Crab Claw at the edge of the Ténéré - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The dunes of Tchi-n-Taboûrak rise on the north side of the Crab Claw - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Dune ascent at Tchi-n-Taboûrak - The dromedaries took the route around the outside of the dunes - Aïr - Niger - 2002

After the crab claw, you follow the Oued Takarit before reaching the large Erg Izane. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The last large waterhole is in the Oued Takarit. Here you "fill up" with as much water as possible before entering the large sea of dunes of Erg Izane. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The last large waterhole is in the Oued Takarit. As much water as possible is "refuelled" here before heading into the large sea of dunes of Erg Izane. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

On the threshold of the entrance to Erg Izane, a large sea of sand dunes. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Camp in the dunes of Lérouanan - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

On the threshold of the entrance to Erg Izane, a large sea of sand dunes. - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The dromedaries return from grazing - Camp in the dunes of Lérouanan - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Sand-blown marble on the edge of Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Still life at the edge of Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Arrival at the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg camp in the Oued Gouloukou - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Nomad tent over a wooden scaffolding in the camp of the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg in the Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

In the camp of the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg in the Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Targia with child in the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg camp in the Oued Gouloukou - The mortar is hand-carved from aborak wood and is also used as a musical instrument when reversed and covered with a goatskin. The stick is made of acacia wood. - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The goat's milk is stored in a gourd container. - Camp of the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg - Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Boy in the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg camp in the Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Girl and baby in the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg camp in the Oued Gouloukou - The mortar is hand-carved from aborak wood and is also used as a musical instrument when reversed and covered with a goatskin. The stick is made of acacia wood. - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Preparing food in the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg camp - Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

A goat being milked - Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg camp - Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1992

In the camp of the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg in the Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Air - Niger - 1992

The well of Faris. Right beside it grows an Aborak tree, a desert date palm (Balanites aegyptiaca) - Air - Niger - 1992

In the camp near the well of Faris - Air - Niger - 1992

Targi in the camp near the well of Faris - Air - Niger - 1992

Ahmed ag Kanom, the brother of the clan chief Abakaoua - Camp of the Kel-Tédélé-Tuareg - Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Air - Niger - 1992

Young Targia in the Kel-Tédélé camp in the Oued Tchiulmas at the foot of the Tamgak massif - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Targia in the Kel-Tédélé camp in the Oued Tchiulmas at the foot of the Tamgak massif - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Before crossing a desert, one must stock up on firewood. - At the camp of Elik-Ouan-Aggan - Air - Niger - 2001

The clan chief Abakaoua of the Kel-Tédélé - Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Air - Niger - 1992

Setting off to cross the Erg Izane - Oued Gouloukou - Kogo - Air - Niger - 1992

Setting off to cross the Erg Izane - Issouane - Air - Niger - 2002

Setting off to cross the Erg Izane - To the right, at the back, is the area of Tchi-n-Taboûrak, from where we departed. - Issouane - Air - Niger - 2002

Abakaoua indicates the direction to cross the Erg Izane - Issouane - Air - Niger - 2000

The caravan begins to cross the Erg Izane - Issouane - Air - Niger - 2000

On the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2001

On the way in the Erg Izane - Abakaoua is lost in silent prayer - Air - Niger - 2001

The day is coming to an end in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2001

Dunes in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

Tracks in the sand of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

Dead nature in the sand of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

On the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2001

Rest break on the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

On the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

Halt in the Erg Izane - The camels eat the fodder that must be carried - Air - Niger - 2000

The caravan on the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

The caravan on the way in the Erg Izane - The scout explores the best path - Air - Niger - 2000

Halt in the late afternoon in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

The caravan continues its journey - Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

The caravan on the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

The traces of the caravan in the Erg Izane will soon be erased by the wind - Air - Niger - 2002

In the dunes of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2001

On the way in the Erg Izane to the camp of Elik-Ouan-Aggan. In the background, the Taghmert Mountain. - Air - Niger - 2001

On the way in the Erg Izane to the camp of Elik-Ouan-Aggan. - Air - Niger - 2001

On the way in the Erg Izane to the camp of Elik-Ouan-Aggan. In the background, the Taghmert Mountain. - Air - Niger - 2001

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2001

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane. The Sloughi Temet is also there - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

Even the Sloughi Temet takes a break in the shade of a dromedary - Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - In the background, the mountain Adrar Chiriet - Air - Niger - 2002

On the way in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

On the way in the Erg Izane - A dromedary needs to be reloaded - Air - Niger - 2000

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - In the background, the mountain Adrar Chiriet - Air - Niger - 2002

On the way in the sand sea of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

In the Erg Izane, you occasionally come across a marble hill - Air - Niger - 2002

On the way in the sand sea of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

In the late afternoon in the sand sea of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - In the background, on the left the mountain Adrar Chiriet, on the right in the distance a marble hill - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - In the background, a marble hill - Air - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - In the background, the mountain Adrar Chiriet - Air - Niger - 2002

Immersing into another world - The caravan enters another universe that is no longer the world of humans. In this untouched nature, only the nomads can survive. - On the left, the Adrar Chiriet - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Crossing the sand sea Erg Izane - In the background, the mountain Adrar Chiriet - Air - Niger - 2002

In the late afternoon in the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

In the late afternoon in the Erg Izane - The hour of prayer - Air - Niger - 2002

In the late afternoon in the Erg Izane - In the background, the mountain Adrar Chiriet - Air - Niger - 2002

In the middle of the Erg Izane rises an imposing hill of white marble - Léouanan - Air - Niger - 2002

The march continues through the dunes of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2002

The march continues through the dunes of the Erg Izan - Air - Niger - 2002

The march continues through the dunes of the Erg Izan - In the back left the Adrar Chiriet - Air - Niger - 2002

The wind is the sculptor of the desert - Air - Niger - 2000

The caravan on the march through the sand sea of the Erg Izane - Air - Niger - 2000

The scout always goes ahead, looking for the best way through the dunes - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Adrar Chiriet, a huge volcanic massif in the middle of the desert, is home to a small population of Barbary sheeps, the wild sheep of North Africa that resembles the ibex, and blocks the path of caravans that have to bypass the mountain range in the middle of the Ténéré. - Aïr - Niger - 2000

During the night, the Dromedae search for food on the plain in front of the Adrar Chiriet - The camp has been set up on the right behind the dunes - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan approaches the plain in front of the Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The camp against the backdrop of Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The camp is broken, the dromedaries are loaded again and then the journey continues to Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The dromedary is also called the ship of the desert - Aïr - Niger - 2000

This tree can no longer live without water. Now it still serves as firewood - Aïr - Niger - 1992

When the vital water of a well dries up, only death remains - Aïr - Niger - 1992

A beetle has left its trail on the way to Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

A pottery shard as a witness to a past culture - Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The fruits of an acacia tree - called afagag in the Tuareg language - serve as fodder for the goats - Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Boys and girls in the camp of Abakaoua, the Kel-Tédélé clan leader - Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 1992

A young Targia in the camp of Abakaoua, the clan leader of the Kel-Tédélé - Adrar Chiriet - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The caravan leaves the Adrar Chiriet area - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The caravan travelling through Erg Izane towards Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Food found on the way for the dromedaries is gladly taken along - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

And on we go, even when the sun is burning - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Lunch stop - resting during the hottest part of the day - Feeding the dromedaries - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Lunch stop - Temet, the Azawakh taking a siesta - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A tent is quickly erected for the kitchen - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Tuareg erect a tent and seek shelter from the blazing sun - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Everyone rests during the hottest part of the day - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

In the afternoon we continue towards Taghmert - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Under the full moon shining in the sky, the caravan marches through the endless dunes of Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A dromedary carries the tarahuit, the traditional women's saddle - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The caravan on its way towards Taghmert - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The caravan on the way to Taghmert - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Imposing dune - the Taghmert Mountains on the horizon - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan on the way to Taghmert - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The dromedaries come back from grazing - In the background the Tamgak Mountains - Near Adrar Chiriet - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Travelling from Adrar Chiriet to Tamgak - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

And on we go, even when the sun is burning - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

It's midday - The shady tent is pitched - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Resting under the shady tent during the heat of the day - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

I wonder what the cook is preparing? - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Lunch break - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The march continues in the direction of Tamgak - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The march continues towards Tamgak - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The march continues in the direction of Tamgak - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the Tebet area, the dunes gradually give way to wind-polished boulders - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Landscape at Camp Tanao - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Landscape at Camp Tanao - On the left the Tamgak Mountains, in the background the Adrar Chiriet - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

On the other side in the background the Taghmert, in the middle ground Tebet - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The camp of Tanao against the backdrop of the Tamgak - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The Tanao camp against the backdrop of the Tamgak - Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

This series of pictures shows the construction of a tataram as it is carried out by the sedentary Tuareg. The photos were taken in November / December 2001 in the area of the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers, about 5 km east of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Women have a special status among the Tuareg. The Targia are very highly respected. They are allowed to choose who and when they marry. The prerequisite is that the chosen one can pay the bride price. Married couples usually live monogamously. The children receive their social status through their mother. While women in Arab Islam still have problems getting divorced today, the Targia can divorce at their own request. In the event of divorce, the children remain with their mother - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The size of the tataram is determined with a circular line. The supporting posts are then dug in at intervals of about one metre. These posts are made from a tree called Apple of Sodom (Calotropis procera), also known as roostertree, a shrub or small tree that grows to a height of 1 to 6 metres. These branches are reinforced and extended with the strong leaf stalk of the palm fronds of the date palm, so that the interior of the new hut is covered - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Whether a tent, hut or house in which the family lives is owned by the woman. Building a house is also part of the Tuareg woman's job. The women have a say and express their opinions: they take an active part in the discussions at the tea ceremonies - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The man's help is limited solely to procuring the raw material. Here a young Targi climbs a doum palm (Hyphaene) to cut off the leaves. This type of palm is characterised by a strong above-ground branching of the trunks, which is otherwise rare in palm trees - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The fan-like leaves of the doum palm are divided into their individual leaves. These parts in turn serve as ‘strings’ with which the posts and leaf stalks of the date palm are tied together - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Tying together the posts and leaf stalks of the date palms - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The basic framework with the main beams for the roof is in place - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Now the beams are connected horizontally with further leaf stalks of the date palm to create a solid framework - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The wheat straw is tied vertically to this scaffolding - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Half of the wall is already covered with wheat straw, carefully tied to the scaffolding with the leaves of the doum palm - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The wall of the hut is completely covered with wheat straw, only the opening for the door remains free - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The wall of the hut has been fixed all round with wheat straw, only the opening for the door remains free - Aïr - Niger - 2001

At head height, a first ring of branches of the tree called Apple of Sodom (Calotropis procera), also known as roostertree, is now fixed for stabilisation - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Targias have brought their mortars from aborak wood, which makes it easier for them to lash the stabilising ring - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A large amount of wheat straw is still needed before the roof is finished - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Layer after layer of wheat straw is now fixed in place like tiles and lashed down with a tyre made of the same material - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Layer after layer of wheat straw is now being laid down like bricks and lashed down with a tyre of the same material - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A ring is made to secure the wheat straw - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Layer after layer of wheat straw is now fixed all round like bricks and secured with a ring of the same material - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The skeleton is clearly visible inside the hut. Above it, the layers of wheat straw are tied down and form a dome - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The skeleton is clearly visible inside the hut. Above it, the layers of wheat straw are tightly bound and form a dome - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The roof construction is nearing completion. The wheat straw is tied down layer by layer. This prevents rainwater from entering the hut - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The roof will soon be finished. The only thing missing is the finish - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Finally, a rain-repellent mat woven from palm leaves is tied around the smoke opening - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The hut is finished. The door is also fixed. The family can move into their new home - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Adrar Bous is a 1123-metre-high mountain on the north-eastern edge of the Aïr high mountains in Niger. It is surrounded by the Ténéré desert and is part of the Aïr and Ténéré UNESCO World Heritage Nature Reserve. The mountain has an elliptical shape covering an area of 16 by 10 kilometres. The Adrar Bous is a refuge for Palaearctic migratory birds in the middle of the desert. Typical woody plants for the mountain are Acacia ehrenbergiana and Acacia raddiana (pictured). The isolated mountain was inhabited in the Neolithic period, as evidenced by sites with 10,000-year-old human remains. Arrowheads and tools have been found, as well as Sahara rock paintings, 9500-year-old pottery and a 6000-year-old cattle burial. - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Camp at the foot of the Adrar Bous - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan has left Adrar Bous and is on its way south - Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Camp in the Temet region, south of Adrar Bous - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan continues southwards - Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Dune spectacle in the Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan before arriving in Bous - Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

View of the caravan from the Bous barrier - Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan moves in the morning light in Wadi Temet - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Dunes at Temet - In the dry season, the Wadi Temet consists only of a scorching hot riverbed, at the edge of which a lone tree struggles to survive - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan travelling in the dry riverbed of the Wadi Temet - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan in a dry valley with sparse vegetation in the Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Citrullus Colocynthis: In the Wadis or valleys, you can easily find large fields of small pumpkins or watermelons. They are round balls scattered on the ground. Some are fresh, others are dried. You are not allowed to eat them, but they are used for medicinal purposes. For rheumatism, as a laxative, for gonorrhoea, for urinary tract infections, for diabetes... - Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Traces in the sand in the Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Dromedaries quench their thirst at a waterhole in the Temet region - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Instead of the traditional guerbas, modern water canisters are filled with the delicious liquid - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan follows the Oued Temet - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan follows the Oued Temet, which is lined with imposing sand dunes - In the background the mountain Ti-n-Galene - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The camp site for the night is soon reached - Temet region - Mount Tazoubit in the background - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The next morning, the caravan resumes its journey - Temet region - Mount Tazoubit in the background - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Soon the camp of Tezirzek is reached - In the background the Tamgak massif - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The camp at the well of Tezirzek is reached - Niger - Aïr - 2003

After arriving at Tezirzek camp, the woman's saddle has to be repaired - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Three Targias in the Tezirzek camp - An old tin barrel serves as a drum - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Two happy Targias in the Tezirzek camp - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Targia at the well of Tezirzek - Between the high plateau of the Ténéré and the Aïr Mountains, the well of Tezirkek attracts nomads and their animals. Unlike the men, the women do not wear headscarves. - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Women's smiles - The smiles of the women at the well of Tezirzek testify to their confidence in their freedom and the serenity that a hard but happy life brings. - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Women's smiles - The smiles of the women at the well of Tezirzek testify to their confidence in their freedom and the serenity that a hard but happy life gives. - Aïr - Niger - 2003

This Tuareg boy´s hair plaits are consecrated to Allah. In the camp of the Kel-Tédélé of Tezirzek - Aïr - Niger - 1992

A young Targi in the Abakaoua camp in Tezirzek - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Tuareg boy in the camp of the Kel-Iguéga of Tezirzek - Aïr - Niger - 1992

The brother of the clan chief Abakoua fetches a dromedary from the pasture - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Members of the Kel-Iguéga clan in the Tezirzek camp - Niger - Aïr - 1992

"Tent" of a family of the Kel-Iguéga clan in the Tezirzek camp - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The brother of Abakaoua, head of the Kel-Tedélé clan, with his son - Tezirzek well - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Portrait of a Targis in the Kel-Iguéga camp near Tezirzek - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Young Targia with her little brother in the Kel-Iguéga camp - The boy carries a lucky amulet containing a written verse from the Koran - Well of Tezirzek- Niger - Aïr - 199292

The goats are supplied with water - Well of Tezirzek- Niger - Aïr - 1992

And suddenly a scorpion crosses the path - Well of Tezirzek - Niger - Aïr - 1992

At the time of the horse (around 1000 BC), the aborigines liked to represent themselves in such a way that one could draw up an inventory of their various representations, which were often accompanied by one or more horses. - Well of Tezirzek- Niger - Aïr - 1992

Rock engraving from the horse epoch. Two figures (the one on the left is 0.70 metres high) are holding a creature together on a rope, which is indistinguishable but resembles a child! - Well of Tezirzek- Niger - Aïr - 1992

In the late afternoon, the Targis bring their dromedaries back from the pasture to the camp - Well of Tezirzek- Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan continues south towards Tchioulmas - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Cutting the drinn on the way, fodder for the dromedaries - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Camp in the dunes - Between Tezirzek and the Oued Tchioulmas - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Travelling in the dunes between Tezirzek and the Oued Tchioulmas - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan travelling through the dunes on the edge of Erg Izane - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan travelling through the dunes on the edge of Erg Izane, between Tezirzek and Oued Tchioulmas - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Boubakar has to make a new rope - Camp in Oued Tchioulmas - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Playing draughts in the camp in Oued Tchioulmas - Niger - Aïr - 2003

On the way home to the camp in the Oued Tiétak - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Nature in detail - Dunes near Tebet - Niger - Aïr - 1992

This dead tree still serves as firewood - Tebet region between Adrar Chiriet and Tamgak - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The question remains: where does this plant get the water it needs? - Tebet region between Adrar Chiriet and Tamgak - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The well of Tchou-m-Adegdeg - Tebet region between Adrar Chiriet and Tamgak - Niger - Aïr - 1992

At the well of Tchou-m-Adegdeg - A goatskin guerba is filled with water - Tebet region between Adrar Chiriet and Tamgak - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The Tamgak massif is close - Niger - Aïr - 2003

From the edge of the Erg Izane, we head towards the mountains of the Tamgak massif - Niger - Aïr - 2003

On the way through a dry valley leading to the Guelta Iffazane - Niger - Aïr - 2003

On the way through a dry valley leading to the Guelta Iffazane - In the far background the Adrar Chiriet, in the middle ground the area of Tebet - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The Guelta Eloukouloukan has water all year round - Niger - Aïr - 2003

At Guelta Iffazane, the water gushing out of the ground flows over several steps into a small lake. Fresh greenery can be found here all year round - Niger - Aïr - 2003

At Guelta Iffazane, the water gushing out of the ground flows over several steps into a small lake. Fresh greenery can be found here all year round - A guerba is filled with water - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Oued with the Tamgak Mountains in the background - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Dune in the Oued Aouï - Niger - Aïr - 2003

In the Oued Aouï – The Tamgak Mountains in the background on the left - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Warehouse in the Oued Aouï - Salt from Bilma is traded here - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Camp in the Oued Aouï - Tea is prepared in the morning - A taguella is being baked between the teapots - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Cérémonie du thé au camp de Tachaouit - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Preparation of food in the Tachaouit camp - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The dromedaries are freed from their burden - Tachaouit camp - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan sets off again early in the morning - Tachaouit - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Evening atmosphere in the camp of Chanounou - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Everything that needs to be kept safe from the goats is hung up in the appropriate place - Chanounou camp - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Sleeping place in the camp of Chanounou - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Still life in the camp of Chanounou - Niger - Aïr - 2003

A veil of respect - To follow the ancestral way of life, tradition and freedom merge in mutual respect. - Camp of Chanounou - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Wife of Chanounou, the chief of a traditional Tuareg tribe - Aïr - Niger - 2003

The Guelta Baloumat in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The dum palm (Hyphaene thebaica) is a multi-stemmed palm species with oval, edible fruits. In ancient Egypt, this palm was used for its fruit, fibres and leaves, but the date palm was not native to Egypt and only produced dates when it could be pollinated. - Guelta Baloumat in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Guelta Baloumat in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Oued Tamgak is reached. Dum palms line the guelta of Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan has reached the Oued Tamgak. Dum palms line the Guelta of Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

During the hottest part of the day, the men find a shady place to rest - Niger - Aïr - 2003

To pass the time, the pieces of the Daara game are moved, a kind of draughts game - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Shortly before spending the night in the camp at Guelta Baloumat - Niger - Aïr - 2003

In the evening, the camp is set up for the night at the Baloumat guelta - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The camel drivers sit around the fire under which the traditional taguella is cooked - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The meat of a goat is cut into pieces and roasted on the fire - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The cook prepares the food - On the right in front a guerba with water - Camp at Guelta Baloumat - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Tea ceremony in the camp of Chanounou - Niger - Aïr - 2003

A new rope is being made - The white stripes are made of plastic! - Camp at Guelta Baloumat - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Boubakar twists a new string from plastic strips - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

‘Water is life’, the delicious liquid is bottled in the goatskin guerba - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

A Targi with his takuba, the sword of the nobleman. As former warriors, the Tuareg are often homesick for their past. In their secret thoughts, they revive the memory of the former rezzous, raids against the caravans that brought slaves and gold up from the south. - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

A Targi with his takuba, the sword of the nobles. As former warriors, the Tuareg are often homesick for their past. In their secret thoughts, they revive the memory of the former rezzous, raids against the caravans that brought slaves and gold up from the south. - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

A guerba was filled with water from the Guelta Baloumat - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Camp on the edge of the Tamgak massif - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Guelta Baloumat in the Tamgak Gorge - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The caravan on the way to the western exit of the gorge that crosses the Tamgak massif - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan on its way to the western exit of the gorge that cuts across the Tamgak massif - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan approaches the end of the gorge that runs through the Tamgak massif. - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Camp at the end of the gorge that runs right through the Tamgak massif. The tent made of mats is for visitors to the area. The camel saddles are parked in front of the tent - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The dromedaries are loaded again in the camp at the exit of the gorge - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The caravan leaves the Oued Tamgak. Behind the mountains on the right is the town of Iferouâne - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Last obstacles before the caravan arrives in the city of Iferouâne - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Travelling through a wide wadi in the late afternoon - Niger - Aïr - 2003

The obligatory taguella is prepared in the camp - Niger - Aïr - 2003

Back at the Zakkat camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Traditional well at Zakkat - The water is lifted from the depths of the well in a sack with the help of a cow or a dromedary -- Niger - Aïr - 2003

Boubakar ag Mohamed, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Armali ag Aglai, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Abdelkrim ag Ahmed, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Ahmed ag Chaoua, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Bachar ag Ahmouda, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Abakaoua ag Kanom, the clan chief of the Kel-Tédélé in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Sidi ag Atuwal, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Irham, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Ibrahim, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Boubakar ag Mohamed - Guelta Baloumat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

A proud Targi - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Ahmed ag Chaoua - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Irham - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Bachar ag Ahmouda - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Abakaoua ag Kanom, the Kel-Tédélé clan chief - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Abdelkrim, son of Ahmed ag Chaoua - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Chemma - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

Ibrahim - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2003

The Kogo region is located on the edge of Erg Izane. It is known for its deposits of white marble - Kogo - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Still life in the sand in the Kogo region - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Loading the dromedaries at the camp in Oued Takarit - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Departure to the west - Kogo region - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Morning atmosphere at the edge of Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Departure in the morning sun - Camp Tebet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Rest in the Tebet area, on the edge of Erg Izane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Leaving the dunes of Erg Izanes behind, the caravan approaches the foothills of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A last camp in the sand dunes before the caravan makes its way through the mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The path of the caravan leads into the Tamgak Mountains, which present themselves like an insurmountable wall - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The area changes from sand dunes to stony terrain - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Descent to Guelta Eloukan before heading into the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2000

On the edge of the Tamgak Mountains you can find rock engravings like this stylised woman - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Camp on the edge of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Camp on the edge of the Tamgak Mountains - A tagella, the bread of the Tuareg nomads, is baked in sand heated by fire - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Achmed ag Chaoua from the Kel-Tédélé tribe takes a well-earned rest - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The caravan begins its journey through the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The oued (valley) on the way to the Guelta Iffazane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Ascent to Guelta Iffazane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Where there is water, life germinates - The Iffazane waterhole offers a rare treasure: water that provides fresh greenery all year round. - Aïr - Niger - 2000

At Guelta Iffazane, the water gushing out of the ground flows over several steps into a small lake. Fresh greenery can be found here all year round - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Where there is water, life germinates - The Iffazane waterhole offers a rare treasure: water that provides fresh greenery all year round. - Aïr - Niger - 2000

At Guelta Iffazane, the water gushing out of the ground flows over several steps into a small lake. The dromedaries take up a lot of water, they will certainly need it - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Resting in the shade of a tree at the Guelta Iffazane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

A guerba filled with water hangs from a tree for condensation. This cools the water - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Resting in the shade of a tree at the Guelta Iffazane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Tea ritual at the Guelta of Iffazane - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Early morning in the camp at Guelta Iffazane - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Ascent to the pass from Tagardet - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The landscape at the pass of Tagardet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Descent from the pass of Tagardet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The caravan in the Oued of Tagardet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The caravan in the Oued of Tagerdet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

In the Oued Tagardet - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Adrar Tamgak is located in the north-east of the Aïr and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Aïr and Ténéré Nature Reserve. The mountain massif is divided into a northern and a southern section by a deep, arching gorge running in a west-east direction. - The caravan crosses the Teliaouet - Aïr - Niger - 2000 pass

Descent from the Teliaouet Pass - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The Adrar Tamgak is located in the north-east of the Aïr and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Aïr and Ténéré Nature Reserve. The mountain massif is divided into a northern and a southern section by a deep, arching gorge running in a west-east direction. The western entrance to the gorge is around five kilometres from the village of Iférouane. Its eastern exit leads into the sand dunes of the Ténéré desert to the south-west of the Chiriet massif. Underground water flows to the surface at the side gorges, creating large pools of water, especially in the western part. The dry valley running through the gorge is the Tamgak, with the Toufouchi and the Zakkat as important tributaries. - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Taguella is a flatbread, the staple food of the Tuareg living in the Sahara. It is a disc-shaped bread made from wheat flour, which is baked under hot sand and charcoal from a small fire. The bread is then broken into small pieces and eaten with a meat sauce. - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait Touareg Arali - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait Touareg Eikerim - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait Touareg Chemma ag Gafid - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait Touareg Hiram, the prayer leader of the camel drivers - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait of Touareg Bachar ag Akhmadou - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait of Touareg Abakaoua, chief of the Kel-Tédélé clan - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Boubakar - The chief of a Tuareg clan - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Eating millet and milk together - The hand replaces the fork - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

There is always enough time for a chat at mealtime - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Lunch is prepared at the camp - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The caravan moves on through the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Landscape in the gorge that runs through the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Ascent to the pass from Tagerdet - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan continues on the heights of the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A waterhole in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - The water supply needs to be replenished - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A waterhole in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

There were lions in the Tamgak Mountains until around 1920. This cairn is a lion trap in which a goat was tied to a stone slab that could close the trap. - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Curious rock formation at the Guelta An Rhon n'Ajad - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The guelta "An Rhone n'Ajad", where there is very good water - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Pre-Islamic tomb in the northern Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan moves through the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Detail of a rock in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

A tomb in the northern Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - The watershed between the Oued Tamgak and the Oued Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Selima preparing cheese from goat's milk - Chemma camp in Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

A Targia making cheese from goat's milk - Chemma camp in Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

On the way to Guelta Enghar. It lies in the gorge that cuts right through the Tamgak Mountains - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The caravan is on its way to the Toufouchi camp. On the way, they stop at a guelta to replenish their water reserves - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The Enghar guelta - undoubtedly the coldest water in the whole of Aïr! The sun never reaches the depths of this rocky gorge on the track leading to Toufouchi. - Niger - Aïr - 2001

This gnarled tree can be found by the wayside between the Guelta Enghar and the Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tuareg women preparing a meal - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The fire must be rekindled - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Wood must be pushed close so that the fire does not go out - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tuareg women preparing a meal - On the left, the goat's cheese is being dried - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Ibrahim's daughters fetch the precious water from the waterhole - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Ibrahim's daughter tastes the precious water from the waterhole - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Ibrahim's wife with her daughter Djamila - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

A goatskin baby carrier for little Djamila in the Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

This Targia is called Tima and is the daughter of Ibrahim - Toufouchi camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

This Targia is called Tima and is the daughter of Ibrahim - She uses Khol, a powder, to apply make-up - Toufouchi camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

School for life - In order to take part in life in the camp, the girl learns the necessary skills early on so that she can support her family. Here she is pounding millet in a mortar. The mortar is carved from aborak wood and also serves as a musical instrument when turned upside down and covered with a goatskin. The stick is made of acacia wood. - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tima uses goat's milk to make cheese called Tukemarine - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Pantry - Food and cooking utensils are placed at height to protect them from animals. All containers come from nature, except the pot - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Everywhere on earth the wind helps to separate the wheat from the chaff - Targia Raisa with her children Fatima and Hamed -Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

School for life - In order to take part in life in the camp, the girl learns the necessary skills early on so that she can support her family. Here she is pounding millet in a mortar. The mortar is carved from aborak wood and also serves as a musical instrument when turned upside down and covered with a goatskin. - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Mohammed, a little Tuareg boy taking a siesta - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tea ceremony in Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

This Targia is a daughter of Ibrahim - Toufouchi camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A Targia with child in the Toufouchi camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A Targia in the Toufouchi camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

I wonder if the grandmother is looking after her grandchild here? - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

With the vessels in her hand, this young Targia looks round for a goat to be milked - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Return from the well - The guerba is filled with water - Toufouchi camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

On the descent from the Essalagh Pass, on the way back from Toufouchi - Niger - Aïr - 2001

In the evening, the dromedaries are taken from the pasture at the Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Nomad tents in Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Milking a goat must be practised - Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The chief’s toothbrush - Boubakar ag Mohamed does not smoke. He uses this piece of wood, taken from a very widespread bush in the Sahara called the «Abesgouin», to clean his teeth – which by no means detracts from the authority in his eyes! - Camp Boubakar - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Pounding millet in a mortar - In the background a sleeping place - Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

A Targia in the Boubakar camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A young Targi in the Boubakar camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A young Targia in the Boubakar camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The wealth of a Tuareg clan is reflected in the number of goats - Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Milking a goat must be practised - Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The wealth of a Tuareg clan is reflected in the number of goats - Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Preparations for making a taguella - Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Nomad tent with sleeping quarters in the Boubakar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Many animals gather around the well of Afis - Niger - Aïr - 2001

In the background the well of Afis with a large number of animals - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Shelter with rock paintings near the well of Afis - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Rock paintings in a shelter near the well of Afis - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Overview of the shelter with rock paintings near the well of Afis - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Landscape at the well of Afis - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The well Tanet Mellet (= small beautiful well) at the camp of Bachar - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Two proud Tuareg ride through the camp on their dromedaries - On the left the clan chief Bachar - Tanet Mellet - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The water is fetched from the depths in a leather sack - Tanet Mellet - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Bachar (left), the boss, sits on the edge of the well and chats with a member of his clan - Tanet Mellet - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The vital water is poured into the drinking trough for the animals - Tanet Mellet well - Bachar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

A guerba is filled with water - Tanet Mellet well - Bachar camp - Niger - Aïr - 2001

At the well Tanet Mellet - On the left the chief Bachar - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Targia with child in the Irham camp at the Tanet Mellet well - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The Targia Jennifer in the camp of Irham - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The young Targia Fatima in the camp of Irham - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The young Targi Achmed in the camp of Irham - Aïr - Niger - 2001

In the Irham camp near the Tanet Mellet well - Everything that must be out of reach of the goats is either hung up or stored on a rack - Niger - Aïr - 2001

A Tuareg nomad bed with Achmed, Fatma and Siliha. The frame is made of aborak wood, the mat is woven from palm leaves - Irham camp at the well of Tanet Mellet - Niger - Aïr - 2001

In the Irham camp near the Tanet Mellet well - This tent has a protective fence against the goats - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Jennifer processes an onion - In the Irham camp at the Tanet Mellet well - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Portrait Touareg Omar al Mahadj of the Kel-Takriza clan - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A dromedary mare is milked at Brahim's camp near Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The water is channelled to the plants - Ibrahim's camp near Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

It sprouts in the gardens of Ibrahim near Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Targia with child in the gardens of Ibrahim near Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Ibrahim with his children in his camp near Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The little son of Ibrahim during his siesta - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Ibrahim of Toufouchi - In the camp near Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Ibrahim in the gardens near Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Targia in Ibrahim's camp in the gardens near Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Targi Ibrahim in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Ibrahim's house near Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

The well of Eghaghar or Erarar - Aïr - Niger - 2001

At the well of Eghaghar or Erarar - Aïr - Niger - 2001

About 5 kilometres from Iferouâne is the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers, which flow down from the Tamgak massif. The Tuaregs have set up camp here. - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

About 5 kilometres from Iferouâne is the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers, which flow down from the Tamgak massif. The Tuaregs have set up camp here. - Preparations for a march into the Tamgak massif - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Targia with children in the camp at the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

In the camp at the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Targia with child in the camp at the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Landscape at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Landscape at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - The goat herd is led to pasture - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Landscape at the camp in the area of the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - The goat herd is led to pasture - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Traditional well at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - The dromedary pulls the goatskin water container out of the well to irrigate the maize field - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Irrigation of the maize field at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Traditional well at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - The dromedary pulls the goatskin water container out of the well to irrigate the maize field - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Traditional well at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Traditional well at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - The dromedary pulls the goatskin water container out of the well to irrigate the maize field - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Traditional well at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Traditional well at the camp near the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Not only dromedaries are used to pull up the water container, but also zebus - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the Zakkat camp at the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers. Two Targias prepare the ‘sieve’ made of wheat straw, which is used to drain the goat cheese Toukamarin - Aïr - Niger - 2001

In the Zakkat camp at the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers. A Targia shows her visitor how to drain Toukamarin goat's cheese - Aïr - Niger - 2001

In the Zakkat camp at the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers. The process of draining Toukamarin goat's cheese takes its course - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A great toy can be made from simple means - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Making a mat woven from palm leaves - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Selima washing her pots - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Appointment with the hairdresser - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The millet for the taguella is pounded in a mortar - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A Targia preparing tea - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

People like to combine the preparation of a meal with a chat - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

On the day of the ‘Méchoui’, a whole sheep is roasted over the fire in honour of the guests - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Two Targis return to the camp on their dromedaries - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Achekwa, a camel bag, is made by the wife of the blacksmith, the Malem - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The achekwa, a camel bag, is made by the wife of the blacksmith, the malem - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Detail of an achekwa, a camel bag, made by the wife of the blacksmith, the malem - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Detail of an achekwa, a camel bag made by the wife of the blacksmith, the malem - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Departure atmosphere at the camp in the region of the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Sedentary Tuareg build a hut surrounded by cultivable land - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The dark-coloured tree is an acacia (called afagag in the Tuareg language), the light-coloured tree is a liana. Both often grow together in symbiosis - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The dark-coloured tree is an acacia (called afagag in the Tuareg language), the light-coloured tree is a liana. Both often grow together in a symbiosis - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Tuareg girl in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Young Targia in the Zakkat camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Selima, a Targia from Zakkat - Her husband is still a nomad, but Selima has settled down. In the oasis of Zakkat, she raises her two children and looks after a herd of goats. A Targia is a Tuareg woman, a Targi is a man. - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Yvonne, a Targia from Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Yvonne, a Targia from Zakkat, has just come from the hairdresser - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A little girl from Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Boubakar, a proud Targi in the Zakkat camp - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Boubakar, a proud Targi in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Amenokal of Iferouane - Among the Tuareg, the Amenokal (plural Imenokalen) or Tamenokalt, if it is a woman (plural Timenokalin), is the head of a Tuareg confederation (Kel), who is elected from the few relatives of the deceased Amenokal and seems to be wise enough to bring the loose confederation closer together. He holds the ettebel (war drum), the symbol of his power. The term Amenokal can be translated as "emperor" in English. The best-known Amenokal of the Tuareg is undoubtedly Queen Tin Hinan, who was a famous Tamenokalt. She founded the Kel Ahaggar community in the Ahaggar – Aïr – Niger - 2001

The Amenokal of Iferouane - Among the Tuareg, the Amenokal (plural Imenokalen) or Tamenokalt, if it is a woman (plural Timenokalin), is the head of a Tuareg confederation (Kel), who is elected from the few relatives of the deceased Amenokal and seems to be wise enough to bring the loose confederation closer together. He holds the ettebel (war drum), the symbol of his power. The term Amenokal can be translated as "emperor" in English. The best-known Amenokal of the Tuareg is undoubtedly Queen Tin Hinan, who was a famous Tamenokalt. She founded the Kel Ahaggar community in the Ahaggar - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Where will the next ride take us? - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Ruins of an old village near Agalal - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Gathering near the ruins of an old village near Agalal - Aïr - Niger - 2001

On the way back to Agadez - Encounter with a group of Targis near Agalal - Niger - Aïr - 2001

On the way back to Agadez - Tuareg tent by the wayside - The tree on the right is a Tamat, it is female. The male tree is called Abrok - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Chapter 1: AÏR - Niger The Aïr Mountains in Niger are characterised by a varied landscape. There are high mountains, deep gorges, extensive plateaus and rock formations. Some plant species that are relatively rare in the Sahara grow at higher altitudes. There are also rocks and cavities that harbour historical rock paintings and engravings, which are evidence of earlier human life and activities in the region. - In the picture: ‘The dead tree’, which is located in front of the large Arakao dunes on the eastern slope of the Aïr Mountains.

10 - Tassirés. Oued Tilemsane (Aïr). – Horse epoch. The central figure has a "ant-head" typical of this period when warriors dominated more than hunters. Note the costume and the appendages on the head, which may not be feathers. The height of the figure from the top of the antennae to the feet: 1.50 m.

15 - Oued Tagalalat (Aïr). - Despite the weakness of the engraving style, this is indeed a document from the Horse Period. The warriors, shaped like a diabolo, are equipped with spears and shields. On the right, note the exceptional beast. A hoofed animal resembling a lion (?). The head, achieved by peripheral punching, shows the two eyes in a "flat" position (diocular technique). Length of the lion: 0.30 m.

18 - Oued Tafidet (Aïr). - A typical view of this region (landscape veiled by suspended sand in the air).

19 - Oued Tafidet (Aïr). - Giraffes from the so-called Pastoral Period. Compare with other schematic giraffes from the Horse Period found at Tagueït bas. Height of the left giraffe: 1 m.

20 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Wall overloaded with graffiti. While the figures from the Horse Period are identifiable, the rest makes little sense. Note an axe at the top, in the center.

21 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Pastoral Period? It is difficult to associate these giraffes with those from Oued Tafidet: their attribution to one style or another is difficult.

23 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Horse Period. A figure without a weapon, carrying an indeterminate round object on the left arm. Decoration on the central part of the body. From the top of the feathers to the base of the feet: 1.10 m.

24 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - End of the Pastoral Period. Five highly stylized giraffes. From the head to the base of the legs of the largest giraffe: 0.95 m.

25 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Pastoral period. In the Sahel, near domesticated cattle, giraffes are not rare. Their abundance should therefore not be surprising. Remember the crumbly nature of the rocks in the Air mountains. Height of the large giraffe: 0.65 m.

29 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Very schematic stippled engravings. The central figure does not clearly evoke equids. To its right, a figure with a bi-triangular garment and a head in an inverted U-shape. The central figure is 0.70 m tall.

30 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Figures with "ant head" (equids) set against a background of animals (domesticated?). Note the spears and round shields. The animals measure between 0.30 and 0.40 m in height.

38 - Tagueït high (Aïr). – This giraffe fresco, remarkable for the work of punctuating and line engraving it required, does not date from the same period as the two figures, one of which is an archer leading the herd, and which seem much later. The main animals measure between 0.60 m and 0.80 m. The rock itself is 2.40 m long.

Maximilien Bruggmann photographing the giraffe fresco in Tagueït.

43 - Tanakom (Aïr). – Typical labyrinth showing the advanced peeling state of the rock in Aïr. The overhanging rock to the right, covering the slanted line in the foreground, is covered with beautiful engravings.

44 - Tanakom (Aïr). – Herd of bovines led by a shepherd. On the side, one animal is ridden, another followed by a shepherd. Work from the late pastoral period. The slab is 2.15 m long.

45 - Tanakom (Aïr). - From the same period: giraffes, ostrich, shepherd touching a bovine. The engravers were interested in all smooth surfaces.

46 - Tanakom (Aïr). - Still giraffes. Their number can be explained either by the engravers' interest or by their diversity. These are very well observed. Slab height: 0.45 m.

47 - Tanakom (Aïr). - Pastoral period. Various quadrupeds. The interest lies in the two figures in the center. The one on the left would fit well in a modern art museum and does not allow for any satisfactory explanation. The one on the right may be holding a bow.

48 - Tanakom (Aïr). - Decadent giraffes. The largest measures 0.85 m in height.

49 - Tanakom (Aïr). - Character with an "ant head" in a praying position. Small intentional character between the two larger ones. Equid period. Religious scene. The appendage between the legs may be the tail of the animal preserved on a leather tunic.

51 - Tanakom (Aïr). - Spotted elephant, strange schematic animals. Note the three stylized figures. Height of the elephant: 0.45 m.

An overview of the two previous photos.

54 - Large fresco from Anakom (Aïr). - A well-observed rider, oryx, antelopes, ostriches, Tifinars show the continuity of mankind since the arrival of the "equids". The animal with a diamond-shaped coat is 0.47 m long. The large antelope on the right is 0.52 m long.

55 - Anakom (Aïr). - The galloping oryx stand out from many graffiti. The small horse, near a man armed with a spear and shield, is also engraved by someone familiar with the equid world. At the bottom right, a man with a U-shaped head. Although of the same type as the previous one, the character on the left (0.75 m tall) has a "sun-shaped" head.

62 - Arakao (Aïr). - A large giraffe (from the tip of the tail to the snout: 0.61 m). The punctuated pattern, which usually indicates the color of the garment, is replaced by lines.

63 - Arakao (Aïr). - A cow (note the udders) in the same style. From the base of the tail to the tips of the horns: 0.94 meters in length.

64 - Arakao (Aïr). - Many Tifinar characters are added to the figures of the equid period. The exact date of Tifinar writing is unknown, but its structure appears to be very ancient. Height of the two figures: 1 meter.

65 - Tezirzek (Aïr). - Horse Period. Two figures (the one on the left is 0.70 m tall) hold together, at the end of a rope, an indistinguishable being that seems to resemble a child!

66 - Tezirzek (Aïr). - The horse-like figures were so fond of representing themselves that one could create an inventory of their various portrayals, often, in fact, accompanied by one or more horses.

67 - Tezirzek (Aïr). - The horse-like figures were so fond of representing themselves that one could create an inventory of their various portrayals, often, in fact, accompanied by one or more horses.

69 - Temet (Aïr). - Very decadent engravings depicting two equid-like figures with strongly emphasized eyes. Bovids (?). From the snout of the one on the right to the tail of the one following: 1.05 m.

70 - Dabous (Western Aïr). - Animal fresco: giraffe, goats (?) etc. Note the deep lines of the engraving, despite the "equine" appearance of the giraffe, which measures 1.15 meters from the nostrils to the tail.

73 - Dabous (Western Aïr). - Rare and very beautiful giraffe head. The snout, horns, and ears are polished. The mane is highlighted. This giraffe is reproduced in its entirety in photo 74. Note the rope hanging from the snout...

Chapter 2: DJADO - Niger Enneri Blaka is located in the flat Djado massif in the north-eastern part of the Republic of Niger. In 1956, the Meharists Lamothe and Moreau discovered various rock engravings on a large, remote rock in the Enneri Blaka and reported them. When the Berliet-Ténéré mission passed by in 1960, some members drew up an inventory of this interesting site. They gave the unusual-looking rock the name ‘Le sous-marin’ (The submarine) and called it Blaka Site 1. They discovered two other interesting sites nearby.

The Sahara, especially the Central Sahara, contains the world's largest and most diverse deposit of rock art. It has been largely explored. Only a few larger regions have been omitted from research to date, primarily due to logistical difficulties. The Djado Plateau in the north-east of Niger is one of these archaeological ‘blank spots’. This is where the Enneri Blaka, a dry wadi, is located. Maximilien Bruggmann reports: 'During the T4 mission of 1966/67, we visited the three stations discovered by the Berliet mission in the Enneri Blaka to take films and photographs. About 1700 metres north of the ‘submarine’ we found a new station, which we called Site 4. It was a very large, hammered elephant. We could not continue our search in this area as we had too little petrol and too little time to get to the Tibesti Mountains in the north of Chad. An idea was born: We should return and search the Enneri Blaka thoroughly, where we would most likely discover more new sites. In 1968/69, during the Blaka mission, another 7 sites were found and documented (see plan). Our last mission to explore Enneri Blaka took place in 1975 - . Three new stations were found. Up to this point, a total of 14 sites had been documented.

As part of the archaeological exploration of the Sahara, trip 18 in 1975 - led to the Ténéré and the Enneri Blaka. The purpose was to search for rock paintings and engravings. The picture shows the arrival of the expedition with the 4 Landrovers at the ‘submarine’ in the Enneri Blaka.

75 - Guelta Domo. Djado Region. - Painted antelope, with a red chest and the rest of the body in white. The lower part of an individual appears at the top of the painting. Its contours were made in white. Rock paintings in the Sahara, except for schematic figures always in red, seem to occupy a more limited chronological position compared to engravings. From the hind paw to the horn: 0.315 m.

76 - Guelta Domo. Djado Region. - Engravings called camelines with Tifinagh, camels ridden or unmounted.

77 - Djado Region. - Two figures, probably Garamantes in leather clothing. The figure on the left holds a spear in the right hand and a shield (?) in the left hand. Height of the figures: 0.37 m.

78 - Djado Region. - Engraved elephant 3.50 m above the ground. Here, the classic style is evident, although there is asymmetry in the movement of the legs. From the tip of the front legs to the back leg: 2.22 m.

78 - Djado Region. - (original photo) Engraved elephant 3.50 m above the ground. Here, the classic style is evident, although there is asymmetry in the movement of the legs. From the tip of the front legs to the back leg: 2.22 m.

79 - Djado Region, near the Sara Pass. - Remarkable fresco, reflecting the varied colors of the rocks. We are here in the great pastoral or bovine era, which often blends animals and humans. The panel shown here measures 0.85 m.

80 - Drigana. Djado Region. - Rhinoceros overlapping an elephant. Old engraving. From the tail tip to the horn tip: 1.56 m.

80 - Drigana. Djado Region. - (original photo) Rhinoceros overlapping an elephant. Old engraving. From the tail tip to the horn tip: 1.56 m.

81 - Drigana. Djado Region. - On a rock bordering a reg, once a prime area for elephant movement, this magnificent Neolithic fresco of 4 naturalistic elephants. The rock measures 4.25 m in width. In the same position, facing the Ténéré plateau, and 300 m from the first ones, three other elephants in the same style. Width of the supporting rock: 4.10 m. (82)

82 - Drigana. Djado Region. - On a rock bordering a reg, once a prime area for elephant movement, this magnificent Neolithic fresco of 4 naturalistic elephants. The rock measures 4.25 m in width (81). In the same position, facing the Ténéré plateau, and 300 m from the first ones, three other elephants in the same style. Width of the supporting rock: 4.10 m.

83 - Enneri Domo, Arkana site. - Bitriangular characters. These representations differ from those referred to as "ant-head" (84). The costume is tight at the waist, and its decorations are no longer visible. The head is reduced to a circle with a dotted interior, and its ornaments are limited to a few lines. Photo 83 - : The distance between the hands is 1.22 meters. Photo 84: The character on the left measures 0.54 meters in height, from the head ornaments to the feet.

84 - Enneri Domo, Arkana site. - Bitriangular characters. These representations differ from those referred to as "ant-head" (84 - ). The costume is tight at the waist, and its decorations are no longer visible. The head is reduced to a circle with a dotted interior, and its ornaments are limited to a few lines. Photo 83: The distance between the hands is 1.22 meters. Photo 84 - : The character on the left measures 0.54 meters in height, from the head ornaments to the feet.

85 - Enneri Domo, Arkana site. - Chariot period. Ox-drawn cart. The wheels have six spokes and are engraved in a "flattened" style. The "floor" plays an important role, and the yokes are very wide apart. Note the primitive stylization of the animals and the character. The cart from one outer edge of the wheel to the other: 0.58 meters.

86 - Enneri Domo, Arkana site. - Chariot period. Ostrich, oxen, giraffe; tifinars, sheep or goats. On the cart, whose wheels with four spokes are depicted in a "flattened" manner, the central yoke ends in a small crossbar. The floor is reduced to a flat triangle. The rock has a height of 1.77 meters.

87 - View of Enneri Blaka. - As we reached the edge of the cliffs with a view of Enneri, we had the impression that a command post of a submarine was emerging from the sand. The name has remained... and the illusion is striking (see the photo by Maximilien Bruggmann illustrating the beginning of the Djado chapter). The site itself was discovered in 1956 by the Méharist officers Lamothe and Moreau. In 1959, the Berliet-Ténéré mission added sites 2 and 3. The Bruggmann mission completed the inventory in 1967 with the discovery of site 4. Then, at the end of 1968, during the research of the Blaka mission, also led by Maximilien Bruggmann, other very interesting sites were found, which were assigned the numbers 5 to 11. On the west face of the "submarine," there is a remarkable giraffe engraving from the old layer (Neolithic or Bubaline), captured in motion. Height of this giraffe: 0.70 meters. Site 1.

At the foot of the ‘Sous-Marin’ of the Berliet Mission, the ‘Mission Blaka’ set up its base camp under a rock shelter, protected by a dune. Between the end of November and mid-December 1968, the expedition discovered 7 new stations with rock art.

88 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Oryx engraved in line. Bubal period. From the nostrils to the base of the tail: 0.23 m.

89 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Elephant engraved in line. Bubal period. From the trunk to the base of the tail: 0.53 m.

90 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Two rhinoceroses engraved in line with a V-shaped cross-section. From the horn on the right to the tail on the left: 0.84 m.

91 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Deer. Ancient painting in the rock shelter "Sous-marin". In addition to the beauty of the work, it is worth noting the presence of this clearly southern herbivore in a place where it no longer occurs. Length: 0.25 m.

92 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Mural depicting a procession of figures painted in red ochre, ranging from 0.10 to 0.20 m in height. The heads, resembling an inverted U or a canine snout, recall those already seen in the Air. One cannot help but think of a ritual dance.

93 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Very beautiful cow from the bovine period. Bicolored, like the Deer-Robert from photo 91. The udders are clearly outlined. Although this piece is on the right, it is on the same line as the previous frieze, making it difficult to associate them in the same style. From the snout to the base of the tail: 0.295 m.

94 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Bubal period. Leaping Dorcas gazelles. Beautiful, deeply engraved drawing on a horizontal slab, to the north of the "Sous-marin". The animal in the center of the photo measures 0.26 m in length.

95 - Enneri Blaka. Site 1. - Rhinoceros from the so-called Bubal period. The document is overlaid with a more recent puncture. From the snout to the end of the tail: 0.36 m.

96 - Enneri Blaka. Site 2. - Drawing of a very decadent ox, based on a photograph by Maximilien Bruggmann. From the tail to the horn tip: 0.53 m.

97 - Enneri Blaka. Site 2. - (original photo) Rhinoceros from the ancient period, engraved with shallow lines. From the tip of the horn to the back of the hind foot: 0.40 m.

98 - Enneri Blaka. Site 2. - Naturalistic elephant, engraved with shallow lines, resembling the style of the previous rhinoceros in the photograph (same artist?). From the end of the trunk to the base of the tail: 0.44 m.

99 - Enneri Blaka. Site 3. - Ox with a "solar disc" between the horns. Figures, giraffes, graffiti... The disc is actually an oval shape, which may refer to a secular ornament. The stippled engravings are late and difficult to classify.

100 - Enneri Blaka. Site 3. - Giraffe from the older layer, engraved with fine lines. From the top of the head to the bottom of the legs: 0.425 m. The firm direction of the lines does not correct the imperfections of the supporting rock.

101 - Enneri Blaka. Site 3. - Elephant engraved on a defective rock. Period of the so-called "Bubale" era. From the base of the hind leg to the end of the tusks: 0.60 m.

102 - Enneri Blaka. Site 3. - Two schematic giraffes with scalariform legs. Compared to the giraffe in photo 101, these engravings appear very decadent. From the tip of the snout (right giraffe) to the base of the tail: 0.315 m.

103 - Enneri Blaka. Site 3. - Period of the "Bubale". A very beautiful giraffe created with lines and internal polishing of the legs. The legs are precise, the curve, and the head well observed. Behind the animal, another smaller giraffe could indicate that the larger one is a nursing female. However, the styles appear different. The engraving of the large giraffe overlaps a small stippled bovine, therefore earlier. From the giraffe’s hooves to the top of its horns: 2.45 m.

104 - Enneri Blaka. Site 4. - Giraffes in a rigid, decadent style. The largest measures 1.05 m in height.

105 - Enneri Blaka. Site 4. - Large naturalistic elephant. Period of the "Bubale". The over-engraving of the three giraffes is much later. Their style is also schematic. From the tips of the elephant's tusks to the end of the tail: 1.80 m long.

Maximilien Bruggmann and Sylvio Acatos taking the inventory of the large elephant at Site 4 of Enneri Blaka.

106 - Enneri Blaka. Site 5. - Typical view of a Neolithic habitat overlooking the valley and its river. This is a rock shelter with dormant grinding stones and traces of sharpening. Ceramic shards are scattered around the shelter. The shelter is 19 m wide, 7 m deep, and the ceiling is 3 m high.

107 - Enneri Blaka. Site 5. - Period of the "Bubale". Small ungulate engraved with deep lines. Note the ends of the legs. This disproportion is found in many regions, especially the Rio de Oro. From the tips of the horns to the hooves: 0.225 m.

108 - Enneri Blaka. Site 5. - Period of the "Bubale". Two very beautiful giraffes, with well-engraved lines emphasizing their elegance. This depiction and the previous one (photo 107) are flat on the floor of the Neolithic shelter. At the top left, sandal prints can be seen, like those found by the thousands across the Sahara, especially in Tiratimine (Hoggar). These are a love wish specific to the Tuareg people. From the giraffe's hooves to the base of its horns: 0.95 m.

109 - Enneri Blaka. Site 5. - Still on the same stone slab of the rock shelter, from the "bubale" period, a schematic rhinoceros that fits well with the local style and the difficulty of properly capturing the anatomy of this animal. The legs also end in a "tapered" shape, which had already struck G.B.M. Flamand in 1921. From the tip of the horn to the back leg: 0.54 m.

110 - Enneri Blaka. Site 7. - Recent pastoral period. On a nearly vertical slab, an extraordinary grouping of cattle led Maximilien Bruggmann, the discoverer of the site, and his team to name it the "Ark of Noah." A mix of bovids, giraffes, hunters, and ungulates can be identified. The estimated number of subjects is 150! Width of the depicted panel: 1.75 m.

111 - Enneri Blaka. Site 7, known as the "Ark of Noah." - Detail of the fresco above: male bovid obtained by pecking, like most of the representations. The tail ends in a "broom." It is preceded by an animal with lyre-shaped horns (bovid?). From the tail to the tips of the horns: 0.91 m in length.

112 - Enneri Blaka. Site 7. - Another detail from the same site where 30 hunters have been identified. The "standing shooter" position of the archers is notable. From the foot of the lower archer to the tip of the upper archer's bow: 0.225 m.

113 - Enneri Blaka. Site 8. - "Bubale" period. The engraving is difficult to interpret due to the arrangement of the hind legs. From the snout to the rump: 0.43 m.

114 - Enneri Blaka. Site 9. - Red painting. Horse under the shelter known as the "Red Horse Shelter." From the rear hoof to the nostrils: 0.40 m.

115 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - Paintings from the "round heads" period (?). At the top, two cows with calves, in white. Below, three unidentifiable quadrupeds, one in red ochre, the other in white. The depicted panel is 0.75 m wide.

116 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - Engravings by pecking. End of the pastoral period. Giraffes, bovids, ungulates. The depicted panel is 2.20 m wide.

117 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - The shelter, seen from the inside, measures 9.60 meters in width. At the far end, behind the mountains, is the "Submarine of Blaka." On the ceiling, a red/pink elephant can be observed; additionally, one can spot bovids, a mounted animal... Sites 7 and 9 are located on the opposite cliffs.

118 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - Near the site, a small hunter created by pecking. Late period. The bow is held in the right hand. On the left elbow, there may be a small shield. See the equid-era figure from Aïr, photograph 23, which carries the same object.

118 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - (original photo) Near the site, a small hunter created by pecking. Late period. The bow is held in the right hand. On the left elbow, there may be a small shield. See the equid-era figure from Aïr, photograph 23, which carries the same object.

119 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - Pastoral period (?). This fresco decorates the ceiling of the rock shelter at Site 10. It primarily depicts bovids and human figures. Two of them are mounted on an ox. The width of the depicted ceiling section is 2.05 meters.

120 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - Site 10, as seen from Site 7! One can better understand Neolithic socio-geography; the sites are located in cliffs between which vast plains and rivers extend.

121 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - Another view of the ceiling painted in the pastoral period. The presence of a large herd of bovids does not exclude wild animals such as the elephant, which appears here in a red color. The bovids are white. An ox is ridden by a figure, which seems (?) to guide it with a rope. The elephant measures 0.41 meters in length.

122 - Enneri Blaka. Site 10. - A mounted, white ox. The painting style is very homogeneous. Notice the feather on the rider's headdress. From the tip of the tail to the snout: 0.225 meters.

123 - Enneri Blaka. Site 11 (2.7 km south of the "Submarine"). - Fresco of giraffes engraved from the "bubale" period. The coats are depicted using different pecking techniques.

124 - Enneri Blaka. Site 11. - Triangular figure from the Garamantic period. Engraving by pecking. The subject has a graceful posture and measures 0.64 meters from the feet to the tip of the feather on its head.

124 - Enneri Blaka. Site 11. - (original photo) Triangular figure from the Garamantic period. Engraving by pecking. The subject has a graceful posture and measures 0.64 meters from the feet to the tip of the feather on its head.

125 - Enneri Blaka. Site 11. - Garamantic period. Two triangular figures with U-shaped heads. Fine engraving. The right arm of the right figure crosses the left arm of the left figure, which measures 0.225 meters in height.

126 - Enneri Blaka. Site 11. - On top of an engraved giraffe are two (?) unidentified quadrupeds. A man stands at the back and touches the tail of one of them.

127 - Rocky landscape at the confluence of Enneri Blaka (on the left) and Domo (on the right). This location is notably rich in rock engravings from all periods since the Neolithic.

128 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Chariot Era. Chariot drawn by oxen, depicted in the naive technique of the "flat-format." Note the axle, the four-spoked wheels, and the very cramped platform. Width of the panel: 0.69 m.

129 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Chariot Era. The driver wears the tunic tightly belted at the waist, characteristic of the Garamantes. Both wheels have 6 spokes, and the axle is poorly positioned. No platform is visible. From the outside of the right wheel to the outside of the left wheel: 0.38 m.

130 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Garamantic Era (?). Object that is part of a series united by the same appearance. Loincloth (?)

131 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Bubaline Era. Rhino engraved with fine and regular lines. It is preceded by a smaller rhino. At the top right, two hanging parts of “loincloths” (?). Large rhino, from the tip of the tail to the tip of the horn: 0.51 m.

132 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Bubaline Era. Elephant engraved with fine lines. Between its legs is the rhino from photo 131. The fact that the rocks here are flat and provide horizontal surfaces attracted artists who did not hesitate to superimpose their works on those of their predecessors. At the height of the elephant's rump, a vulvar symbol (?). The panel portion measures 2.65 m in length.

133 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Bubaline Era. Extraordinary bovine with oversized horns. Several central parts of loincloths. Vulvar sign, hooves... The surface depicted measures 1.17 m in height.

134 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Bubaline Era. Beautiful cow engraved. The color differences in the coat are represented by lines separating the areas.

135 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Bubaline Era. Engraved elephant. One of the two lines delimiting the back is an abandoned sketch; dotted vulvar sign. Width of the depicted panel: 0.66 m.

136 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - "Diabolo" man from the Garamantic period. He holds a spear in his right hand and a shield in his left hand. The lower part of his tunic is fringed, and his head is adorned with a well-identified feather.

137 - Confluent Blaka-Domo. Site 12. - Confronted rhinoceroses from the Bubaline period. From the tip of one tail to the other: 0.665 m.

632 - Yeï Loulou Yoga (Niger). - Engraving through complete pecking. On the left, a Sudanese Sloughi. In the center, a traditionally dressed Tuareg with spear, shield, and a cord hanging between the legs. On the right, an armed, mounted dromedary. Note the head ornaments of the animal.

633 - Yeï Loulou Yoga (Niger). - Engraved elephant. 1.20 m in height.

In the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - The watershed between the Oued Tamgak and the Oued Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

On the heights in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan in the Oued Tai Rei Iben, a side valley of the Oued Zakkat - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2002

Descent in the Oued Tai Rei Iben, a side valley of the Oued Zakkat - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the Gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the Gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains. The big tree is called Aborak by the Tuaregs - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the Gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the Gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains. The trail of the dromedaries in the evening light - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the Gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

An oued in the valley of the gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan follows an oued in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the Gueltas in the northern part of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2002

A Targi refreshes himself in the valley of the gueltas (waterholes). In the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also known as Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the valley of the gueltas (waterholes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also known as Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

A dromedary drinking water in the valley of the gueltas (waterholes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also called Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan passes a waterhole. In the valley of the gueltas (waterholes) in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also known as Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The goatskin guerbas are filled with water. In the valley of the gueltas (waterholes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also known as Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The Guelta Bilal in the valley of the Gueltas (water holes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also called Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The Guelta Bilal in the valley of the Gueltas (waterholes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also called Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The Guelta Mirroir in the valley of the Gueltas (waterholes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also called Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

The caravan travelling in the valley of the Gueltas (waterholes), in the northern part of the Tamgak massif, also called Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2002

In the gorge between the two parts of the Tamgak Mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Adrar Tamgak is located in the north-east of the Aïr and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Aïr and Ténéré Nature Reserve. The mountain massif is divided into a northern and a southern section by a deep, arching gorge running in a west-east direction. - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Adrar Tamgak is located in the north-east of the Aïr and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Aïr and Ténéré Nature Reserve. The mountain massif is divided into a northern and a southern section by a deep, arching gorge running in a west-east direction. - A canister fell down during a difficult passage - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Adrar Tamgak massif is divided into a northern and a southern section by a deep gorge running in an arc in a west-east direction. The caravan on its way through this gorge - Aïr - Niger - 2000

In a side valley in the south-western part of the Adrar Tamgak - The caravan on the way to Abri Ilem - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Abri Ilem - A shelter with rock art - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Balance - Landscape in the area of Abri Ilem - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Olive tree in Adrar Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The caravan in the gorge that crosses the Tamgak massif - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The clan chief Boubakar - He wears sandals like the Europeans - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The Guelta Settafan in the deep, arched gorge of the Adrar Tamgak running from west to east - Aïr - Niger - 2001

In Tamascheq, the language of the Tuareg, they say Aman Eres. Aman means water and Eres means hole. - In the northern part of the Adrar Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Boubakar, the head of the clan, also acts as a vet. A dromedary needs to be treated. - In the northern part of the Adrar Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Pre-Islamic burial site, about 600 years old. In the northern part of the Adrar Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Descent from a pass. The Oued Tamgak in the background. - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Descent from a pass in the direction of Oued Tamgak. - Aïr - Niger - 2001

A guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountain ranges - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Camp at a guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountain ranges - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Camp at a guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountain ranges - Note that the bush serves as a pantry - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountain ranges - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountain ranges - Dum palms (Hyphaene thebaica) in the background - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountain ranges - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The evening tea ritual in the camp - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

In the evening at the camp, a taguella is baked - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The guerbas are filled with water at a guelta in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Guelta Baloumat in the gorge between the two Tamgak mountains - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Well in the gardens of Iferouâne. According to old custom, the water is drawn up in a leather bag and distributed into the irrigation channels - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Ibrahim in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Abakaoua, the chief of the Tel-Kédéle clan, takes a break - Tamgak - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Abakaoua, head of the Kel-Tédélé clan - in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2000

A son of Abakaoua, the Kel-Tédélé clan chief - in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Ibrahim ag Arambi - in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Targia with child - in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2000

A young Targia with her child in the camp of Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Young Targia preparing a meal - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2000

As with many other indigenous peoples, the Targia carries her infant on her back - Zakkat - Aïr - Niger - 2000

About 40 kilometres from Agadez, we meet a salt caravan marching from Bilma to Agadez - Niger - Aïr - 1999

On the track from Agadez to Bilma we meet a caravan of around 1000 dromedaries travelling to Libya - Niger - Aïr - 1999

The rock engravings of Dabous are located on the western edge of the Aïr Mountains in Niger, around 110 km north of Agadez and just a few kilometres off the Trans-Saharan route. In 2000, the rock engravings of Dabous were included in the World Monuments Watch list of the 100 most endangered cultural monuments. - Niger - Aïr - 1999

The giraffes of Dabous are life-size rock engravings of two giraffes in the Sahara from the Neolithic period. They are located on the sloping top of a sandstone block about 15 metres high and cannot be seen from the ground. The larger, male giraffe is 5.8 metres high from horns to hooves and is one of the largest rock engravings of its kind in the world. The female giraffe, which also carries a rope from its nostrils, measures 3.02 metres from head to tail tip. It is estimated to be between 7,000 and 10,000 years old. The giraffes are characterized by their great attention to detail and the preservation of proportions. - Niger - Aïr - 1999

Landscape in the Agalal region, on the way to Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 1999

Returning from the well - The donkeys are tired, the water hoses are full, the sun is approaching its zenith: a common sight on the track between Iferouâne and Arlit. - Niger - Aïr - 2002

Two Targias lead their goats to a new feeding place in the Oued Timia - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The search for firewood has paid off - Oued Timia - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Timia is a rural community in Niger. It is located approximately 150 kilometres north-east of Agadez in the middle of the desert area of the Aïr Mountains. The village is centred around a guelta oasis and is known for being one of the few places in the area with fruit trees. It is home to a seasonal waterfall, a French colonial fort and the ruins of the historic Tuareg village of Assodé. - Camp of Tuareg nomads in the Oued Timia - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Young Targia with traditional jewellery - Oued Timia - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Hands of a nomad woman with traditional Tuareg jewellery on indigo fabric in the background - Oued Timia - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The Timia oasis lies on the eastern flank of the Adrar Egalah mountain (1874 m) at an altitude of almost 1000 m in the Kel-Ewey-Tuareg region and stretches along a dry riverbed that carries water in the summer months, provided it has rained in the upper reaches. The picture shows the Guelta Timia - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The Timia oasis lies on the eastern flank of the Adrar Egalah mountain (1874 m) at an altitude of almost 1000 m in the Kel-Ewey-Tuareg region and stretches along a dry riverbed that carries water in the summer months, provided it has rained in the upper reaches - Niger - Aïr - 1992

To the north of Timia, Mount Takabar rises from the plain, looking like a volcano but made of pure granite - Niger - Aïr - 1992

A nomadic mosque in the Oued Adjirigoudou - Ekadi Emoulène - Niger - Aïr - 1992

This fixed stone mill bears witness to an earlier civilisation - Oued Baouet - Niger - Aïr - 1992

A caravan in the Baghote region, on the edge of the Ténéré - Niger - Aïr - 1999

On the track to Iferouâne, Mount Aguao in the background - Niger - Aïr - 1999

On the track to Iferouâne, Mount Agalal in the background - The first Europeans entered this region around 1900 - Niger - Aïr - 1999A

The well of Tchintoulbus, en route to Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 1999

Pumpkin container that is usually filled with milk, yoghurt or cream cheese. - Niger - Aïr - 1999

At the fountain of Ounane Iterade, in the midst of lush vegetation - Niger - Aïr - 1999

Rock engraving at the well of Ounane Iterade - Niger - Aïr - 1999

The main town of Iferouâne is the primary oasis in the north-western part of the Aïr Mountains. It is the main administrative centre of the "Aïr and Ténéré Nature Reserve", the largest protected area in Africa at 77,000 km². The settlement is located in the Irhazar Valley (also: Ighazar Valley) and is characterised by mud houses, mat tents and gardens. - Traditional well in the gardens of Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Traditional well in the gardens of Iferouâne - The water is drawn from the depths in a goatskin bag (doulon) - Niger - Aïr - 1992

The main town of Iferouâne is the primary oasis in the north-western part of the Aïr Mountains. It is the main administrative centre of the "Aïr and Ténéré Nature Reserve", the largest protected area in Africa at 77,000 km². The settlement is located in the Irhazar Valley (also: Ighazar Valley) and is characterised by mud houses, mat tents and gardens. - Traditional well in the gardens of Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Traditional well in the gardens of Iferouâne - The water is drawn from the depths in a goatskin bag (doulon) - Niger - Aïr - 1992

A boy from the town of Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 1992

Portrait of a Targis in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 1992

Portrait of a Targis in the gardens of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 1999

Boys from the town of Iferouâne with an improvised guitar - Niger - Aïr - 1999

In the evening, people meet for a chat to exchange news - Iferouâne - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Portrait of a Targis - Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Chemma has set up camp on the edge of the Tamgak Mountains - The goats are taken from the pasture in the evening - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Acacia raddiana (called Afagag in the Tuareg language) grows in dry areas and has many uses. The species is common in the driest areas along temporary watercourses on light, well-drained soils. Although the wood is not used industrially, it has many local uses, not least because of its importance for feeding animals and occasionally people (famines). In traditional medicine, Acacia raddiana is known to be a particularly effective wound-healing agent. The wood is a much sought-after fuel (firewood and charcoal) and a favorite material for handicrafts (mortars, bowls, etc.) - Camp Chemma - Niger - Aïr - Iberkom - 2001

Irrigation of onions in the gardens of Chemma in Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Onion harvest in the gardens of Chemma in Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tatum, a young Targia, weaving ribbons that are further processed into mats - Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tatum prepares a meal for the road called Arichira. She needs dates, cheese and water - Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Tatum, a young Targia, weaving ribbons that are further processed into mats - Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

Portrait of Tatum, a Targia in the camp of Chemma - Iberkom - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Portrait of a Targia in the camp of Chemma - Iberkom - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Toy truck made with a lot of imagination - Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

In the Chemma camp in Iberkom - Niger - Aïr - 2001

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