Gourma Elephant Range — Hombori Approach Laterite Flat Dispersed Camp

This is open Sahelian scrub country along the Gao–Hombori piste, east of the Gourma depression where the last trans-Saharan elephant population moves between waterholes. No signage, no facilities, no other rigs — just ironstone gravel, acacia thorn, and the odd chance of a grey shape on the horizon at dusk. The ground is hard-packed laterite with scattered rock, giving solid footing for any well-aired overland rig. Nights cool fast after September. Fire is possible in the dry season but use extreme judgment — the grass burns hard.

Access is via the piste de Gao à Hombori, which deteriorates significantly after rain — sandy crossings multiply between Ansongo and the Gourma basin. Fuel and water must be carried from Gao; there is nothing reliable along this corridor. Check security conditions with other travellers in Gao before committing — this corridor has been a moving risk zone for years. Travel in convoy, carry extra fuel, and confirm elephant sighting intel at the Gao mairie.

Elephant country, open sky, zero infrastructure.