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Emi Koussi

The highest point in the Sahara, a vast shield volcano in the Tibesti.

Updated 21 October 2026

Typevolcano

WhereTibesti

Nearest cityBardaï

Best seasonNovember to February

Time to allowExpedition length

Getting thereIn the Tibesti massif; four-wheel drive expedition with permits and guides

EntryPermits and guides required

Emi Koussi rises to 3,415 metres at the southern end of the Tibesti, a shield volcano some sixty to seventy kilometres across at the base with a caldera complex at the top, and it is the highest point in the Sahara and in Chad. Its surface has been compared with terrain on Mars closely enough that it has been used as an analogue site. Climbing it means an expedition of days from the nearest settlement.

The landscape

The summit - 3,415 metres, the highest point in the Sahara.
The caldera complex - the craters and calderas at the top of the shield.
The scale - a volcano some sixty to seventy kilometres across.
The Mars analogue - terrain used for comparison with the Martian surface.

When to go

November to February is the cool season and the only practical window. March to May is extremely hot. Nights at altitude are cold.

Good to know

This is a full expedition in one of the least accessible regions on earth, requiring permits, guides, fuel and water. There is no rescue. Access to the Tibesti requires arrangements made months ahead.

Nearby

Trou au Natron is north, and Bardaï is beyond it.

Key facts

Elevation3,445 m (11,302 ft)

Location19.7894° N, 18.5511° E · map

Source: Wikidata, item Q257441, read on 18 October 2026.

What to pack for Emi Koussi

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

Every-trip essentialsDocuments + digital copies · Universal travel adapter…Hiking & trailsBroken-in walking shoes or boots · Layers + a waterproof shell…Desert & strong sunLoose, light, long clothing · A wide-brim hat + sunglasses…High altitudeAscend slowly, acclimatise · Layers for big temperature swings…Camping & wild nightsShelter suited to the place · A warm sleeping bag + mat…

Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
Loose, light, long clothing - Covering up beats bare skin in the desert - and locals dress this way for a reason. Find on Amazon
Layers for big temperature swings - Warm sun by day, near-freezing at night, even near the equator. Find on Amazon
Shelter suited to the place - Tent, tarp or hut booking - match it to the terrain and rules. Find on Amazon

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