We had a ½-hour lunch break, and after a little while crossed the Tropic of Cancer. Well, I guess we’re making some progress. We arrived at Assekrem at 5:00, in time to set up tents and hike to the top of the mountain (9030’) for sunset and a great view of the Hoggar Mountains. Assekrem is the site of the hermitage of Père de Foricauld.

 The scenery today has been impressive, with lots of rocky peaks jutting straight up out of the ground. It looks like the pictures I’ve seen of Patagonia. The temperature during the last few days has been cool at first in the mornings, then warmer from about noon to 4, mild in the evening, and then very cold at night, especially with clear skies. There is no dew because it is so dry. I have yet to put on my shorts, but things may be changing soon.