3-Day Local's Adventure Guide to Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria

Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria

3 days

Very rare coniferous tree in the Sahara desert
Donkeys drinking water from a stony water trough by the well in the Sahara desert.
The famous rock engraving of a crying cow near Djanet
Apple of Sodom, Oscher tree, calotrope (Calotropis procera). Plant growing like a weed in desert. Tadrart mountains.
Neolithic rock art of a camel with rider. Tadrart Rouge.

About Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This vast plateau offers an extraordinary panorama of sand dunes, rugged canyons, and peculiar eroded sandstone formations. It's a paradise for archaeology and art history enthusiasts, boasting over 15,000 drawings and engravings that date back to 6000 BC, revealing a record of climatic changes, animal migrations, and the evolution of human life on the edge of the Sahara. Experience the thrill of trekking through the lunar landscape, camping under the stars, and exploring the prehistoric rock art. Tassili n’Ajjer is not just a journey into the heart of the Sahara, but a voyage back in time.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Tassili n’Ajjer National Park and Camping Under the Stars

Morning

Start your adventure with a guided tour to the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park. Explore the stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park. Savor local delicacies while soaking in the serene surroundings.

Afternoon

Continue your exploration of the park. Visit the prehistoric rock art sites and marvel at the ancient drawings that date back to the Neolithic era.

Dinner

Relish a traditional Algerian dinner under the stars. Enjoy the unique experience of dining in the wilderness.

Evening

End your day with a night of camping. Experience the tranquility of the desert night and gaze at the star-studded sky.

Morning

Start your day with a trek to the Sand dunes. Experience the thrill of climbing the towering dunes and enjoy the panoramic views from the top.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch at the top of the dunes. Enjoy the stunning views while savoring your meal.

Afternoon

Embark on a camel trek through the desert. Experience the traditional mode of transportation and enjoy the unique landscapes.

Dinner

Enjoy another night of dining under the stars. Try different Algerian dishes and enjoy the peaceful desert night.

Evening

Spend another night camping in the desert. Listen to the silence of the desert night and watch the stars.

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the Gueltas. Marvel at the oasis-like bodies of water in the middle of the desert.

Lunch

Have your lunch by the Gueltas. Enjoy the serene surroundings and the unique desert ecosystem.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon Bird watching. The park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird lovers.

Dinner

Have your final dinner in the desert. Enjoy the traditional Algerian cuisine and reflect on your adventure.

Evening

End your adventure with a final night of camping. Enjoy the tranquility of the desert and the beauty of the starry sky.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Tassili n’Ajjer National Park

1
Tassili n’Ajjer National Park

A vast plateau in Algeria covering an area of over 72,000 km2. It has one of the most important groupings of prehistoric cave art in the world.

Parks
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
prehistoric rock art sites

2
prehistoric rock art sites

These sites are home to ancient rock art dating back thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the past.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Sand dunes

3
Sand dunes

The sand dunes of Tassili n’Ajjer are a stunning natural attraction, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for photography.

Attractions
Landmarks
camel trek

4
camel trek

Experience the traditional mode of transportation in the desert with a camel trek across the sand dunes.

Tours
Cultural Experiences
Gueltas

5
Gueltas

Rare desert wetlands that serve as vital water sources for local wildlife.

Attractions
Landmarks
Bird watching

6
Bird watching

Tassili n’Ajjer is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for bird watching.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Couscous

Couscous

A staple food throughout the North African cuisines of Algeria, it is made of small steamed balls of semolina, usually served with a stew spooned on top.

Chakchouka

Chakchouka

A popular dish in Algeria, it is a mix of peppers, tomatoes and eggs, fried together. It is often enjoyed in Tassili n’Ajjer due to its simplicity and flavor.

Merguez

Merguez

A red, spicy mutton or beef-based fresh sausage from Algerian cuisine. It is a popular food item in Tassili n’Ajjer.

Mechoui

Mechoui

A traditional North African dish that is popular in Algeria. It is typically a whole sheep or a lamb spit-roasted on a barbecue.

Baguette

Baguette

A long, thin loaf of French bread that is commonly made from basic lean dough. It is a staple food in Algeria, often enjoyed with meals or used for sandwiches.

Shorba Frik

Shorba Frik

A traditional Algerian soup made from green wheat and lamb, it is a popular dish especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

Bourek

Bourek

A popular Algerian pastry, filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. It is a common street food in Tassili n’Ajjer.

Makroud

Makroud

A North African sweet pastry that has a date filling and is often flavored with orange blossom water. It is a popular dessert in Tassili n’Ajjer.

Algerian Mint Tea

Algerian Mint Tea

A popular drink in Algeria, it is a green tea prepared with mint leaves and sugar, often served in a traditional teapot.

Ras el Hanout

Ras el Hanout

A spice mix from North Africa. It plays a similar role in North African cuisine as garam masala does in Indian cuisine.

Dziriat

Small Algerian cakes made with almonds, it is a popular sweet treat in Tassili n’Ajjer.

Qalb el Louz

Qalb el Louz

A traditional Algerian dessert made from semolina and soaked in a sweet syrup, it is a popular dessert in Tassili n’Ajjer.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Tassili n’Ajjer in Algeria is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, the temperatures are more comfortable for exploring the stunning rock formations and ancient cave paintings. However, it's important to note that nights can be quite cold, so packing warm clothing is essential. The region is also less crowded during these months, providing a more exclusive and serene experience.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year

January 12

Fri

Berber New Year

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

May 1

Wed

May Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 5

Fri

Independence Day

July 8

Mon

Muharram

July 17

Wed

Day of Achura

September 16

Mon

The Prophet's Birthday

November 1

Fri

Anniversary of the Revolution

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The most common way to reach Tassili n’Ajjer is by air. The nearest airport is Illizi, which is well connected with Algiers, the capital of Algeria. From Illizi, you can hire a car or take a taxi to reach the national park.

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around in Tassili n’Ajjer. The roads are generally in good condition, but a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the rugged terrain of the park. Remember to carry a spare tire and enough fuel as gas stations are few and far between.

Taxis are available from Illizi to Tassili n’Ajjer. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Taxis can also be hired for a full day for sightseeing within the park.

For a more traditional and adventurous experience, you can opt for a camel trekking tour. These tours are guided and can last from a few hours to several days, offering a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes and rock formations of Tassili n’Ajjer.

Several tour operators offer guided tours to Tassili n’Ajjer. These tours often include transportation, meals, and accommodation. They can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to worry about logistics.

Ridesharing services are not commonly used in this region due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure. However, it's possible to share a taxi or a car rental with other travelers to reduce costs.

Once you're in the park, exploring on foot is the best way to experience the stunning landscapes and ancient rock art. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry plenty of water.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency DZD

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 21606666; Fire: 14; Police: 17

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria as a first time visitor

1

Tassili n’Ajjer is a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2

The area is known for its unique rock formations and prehistoric rock art.

3

The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cooler.

4

During the summer months (May to September), temperatures can reach up to 104°F (40°C), so it's advisable to avoid this period.

5

The area is remote and not easily accessible. It's recommended to join a guided tour.

6

You will need a permit to visit the park. This can be obtained from the Algerian Ministry of Culture or through a tour operator.

7

The park is located in the Sahara Desert, so be prepared for desert conditions. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

8

There are no facilities in the park, so you will need to bring all necessary supplies with you.

9

There is no cell phone service in the park, so be prepared for this.

10

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Barbary sheep and fennec foxes.

11

The park is also home to a number of endangered species, so it's important to respect all wildlife and keep a safe distance.

12

There are no marked trails in the park, so it's easy to get lost. Always stay with your guide.

13

The park is located in a politically sensitive area. Always check the latest travel advisories before planning your trip.

14

The local language is Tamahaq, but Arabic and French are also widely spoken.

15

The local currency is the Algerian dinar. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so bring enough cash.

16

The area is predominantly Muslim, so dress modestly and respect local customs.

17

There are no accommodations in the park. Most visitors camp under the stars.

18

The park is located at high altitude, so be aware of the potential for altitude sickness.

19

There are no medical facilities in the park. Bring a first aid kit and any necessary medications.

20

Remember to take all trash with you when you leave to help preserve this unique environment.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Salam

sa-lam

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Besslama

bes-lama

Leaving someone

Please

Min Fadlak

min fad-lak

Asking for something

Thank you

Shukran

shook-ran

Showing appreciation

Yes

Naam

na-am

Agreeing with someone

No

La

la

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

SmaH li

sma-h lee

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Ana aasif

ana aa-sif

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?

hal ta-ta-kal-lam al-ing-li-zi-ya

Communicating language ability

I don't understand

La afham

la af-ham

Having difficulty understanding

Where is...?

Ayna...?

ay-na

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Hammam

ham-mam

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Musaa'da

mu-saa-da

In case of emergency

Food

Ta'am

ta-am

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Maa

maa

Asking for water

Hotel

Fondoq

fon-dok

Looking for a place to stay

How much?

Kam?

kam

Asking for the price

I am lost

Ana daa’i

ana daa-i

When lost

Call the police

Ittasal bil shorta

it-ta-sal bil shor-ta

In case of emergency

Can you help me?

Hal tastaTyiE musaa'dati?

hal tas-ta-tyi-e mu-saa-da-ti

Asking for help

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts

  • Long pants

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Swimsuit

  • Light jacket or sweater for cool evenings

  • Rain jacket or poncho

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic

  • Prescription medications

  • Over-the-counter medicine for pain, fever, or allergies

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • International power adapter

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Extra memory cards for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notebook and pen

  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria, it's important to consider the weather conditions as they can greatly impact your experience. This region is characterized by a hot desert climate, so expect high temperatures, especially during summer months (June to September), where they can reach up to 104°F (40°C). However, it's not always scorching hot. During winter months (December to February), the temperature can drop significantly, sometimes reaching as low as 32°F (0°C) at night. Therefore, packing warm clothing for the chilly evenings is advisable. The region is also known for its dryness, receiving very little rainfall throughout the year. This means you should always carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, and consider bringing moisturizing products to combat the dry air. Despite the extreme conditions, the weather in Tassili n’Ajjer can be quite unpredictable. Sudden sandstorms are not uncommon and can occur without much warning. It's recommended to always check the local weather forecast before heading out for the day and consider hiring a local guide who is familiar with the area and its weather patterns. Lastly, don't forget to pack sun protection items such as a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. The sun can be quite intense, and these items will help protect you from potential sunburns and other sun-related issues. Remember, the key to enjoying your visit to Tassili n’Ajjer is to be prepared and adaptable to the weather conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

24° / 4°

January is the coldest month in Tassili n’Ajjer, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 24°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February

26° / 6°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 6°C to 26°C. The weather is still relatively cool, making it a comfortable time to explore.

March

30° / 10°

March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. The weather is warm, perfect for outdoor activities.

April

34° / 14°

In April, temperatures range from 14°C to 34°C. The weather is quite hot, so remember to stay hydrated.

May

38° / 18°

May is the start of the hot season with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 38°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

June

42° / 22°

June is one of the hottest months, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 42°C. It's advisable to avoid strenuous activities during the day.

July

44° / 24°

July is the peak of summer with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 44°C. It's extremely hot, so plan your activities accordingly.

August

44° / 24°

August continues the summer heat with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 44°C. It's recommended to stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight.

September

40° / 20°

September marks the end of summer with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. The weather starts to cool down, making it a good time to visit.

October

36° / 16°

In October, temperatures range from 16°C to 36°C. The weather is warm, perfect for exploring the outdoors.

November

30° / 10°

November sees a significant drop in temperature, ranging from 10°C to 30°C. It's a comfortable time to visit and explore.

December

26° / 6°

December is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 26°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

Did you know?

Did you know that Tassili n’Ajjer is a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site?

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