Your adventure
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Embark on a rhythmic journey alongside graceful dromedaries, traversing a captivating loop that begins in Djanet and ventures through an ever-changing tapestry of landscapes. From vast dunes and expansive plateaus to majestic canyons and intriguing rock formations emerging from the sandy terrain, each step reveals a new marvel. Discover hidden wadis, tranquil gueltas, and vibrant green islets that punctuate the surroundings.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage as you encounter the timeless Tassili rock art, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Follow the path of Essendilen Canyon, leading you to the guelta of the same name, with its delicate pink laurels and its deep emerald-green waters. *suggestion: Extend your discovery of the region by combining this tour with the "Red Tadrart tour" .
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Level : Advanced
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You will enjoy
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Day by day
Technical information
Photos
Day by day
Arival
You will be greeted at the airport of Djanet by your Tuareg guide and his team.
They will take you by road to your first place of bivouac at the site of Tisrass.
It is also at this place that you will meet your loyal travel companions, the dromedaries ready to accompany you throughout your expedition.
Day 1 : Tigharghart - Tiharamiwouen
You will progress on a plateau of sand with colors ranging from yellow to pale red, dotted with black sandstone mountains.
Upon reaching the wadi Adaïg, lunch will be served, and you will have some time to rest.
After lunch, you will continue your journey amidst dunes and sandstone rocks, heading toward Wadi Tiharamiwouen.
As the sun descends, near wadi Tiharamiwouen, you'll establish your camp for the night and enjoy your first dinner under the starry sky.
Day 2 : Tiharamiwouen - Assassou
On the second day, you'll start a downhill hike through the scenic wadi In Loukou, nestled within a charming canyon.
The trail will lead you to the tranquil Wadi Imourouden, where you'll have a pleasant lunch break.
Afterward, you will take the opportunity to visit the fascinating Imourouden cave, known for its intriguing legend of the child who walks on all fours.
In the afternoon, you will continue your hike through lush vegetation and canyons, reaching the region of Assasou, where ancient rock paintings await your discovery, revealing glimpses of an ancient civilization.
Finally, as the sun sets, you will set up your camp along the edge of wadi Assassou and enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars.
Day 3 : Assassou - Tilalin
This day will begin with the crossing of wadi Tilafasous in a decor of large stretches of clear sand adorned with sandstone peaks.
By late morning, you will have reached the expansive Tilalin valley, where you'll pause for a lunch break.
The Tilalin valley will later serve as your campsite for the night, but before settling in, you will take the afternoon to explore this enchanting location, renowned for its ancient rock paintings, its majestic sandstone mountains, and the flourishing wadi Tijlahikrar, abundant with a diverse array of plants such as acacia, armoise, and cacti.
To end the day on a high note, you will head to a scenic viewpoint where you can witness the sunset that graces this remarkable region.
Afterwards, you will return to your campsite for a satisfying dinner.
Day 4 : Tikoubawin - Ioualalaten
After breakfast, get ready for a delightful morning hike as you venture into the captivating region of Tikoubawin.
Named after its distinct sandstone rock formations shaped like peaks by the wind's artistic touch, Tikoubawin,"The Swords" in the Tuareg language, offers a truly unique experience.
During this hike you will Admire the great sandstone arch, discover an array of ancient rock paintings, and marvel at the pre-Islamic tomb, all showcasing the rich history of this area.
After lunch, you will continue your journey along the meandering route of wadi Touia, nestled among majestic mountains, until you arrive at Ioualalaten, where you'll establish your camp for the night.
Day 5 : Ioualaten - Ouanzawaten
After breakfast you’ll begin your day with a scenic walk along the winding path layed out by wadi Tadat Neidi and the towering walls of the canyon bearing the same name.
Soon after crossing the Tadat Neidi pass, you will reach the serene wadi Talet Tenzeï, where you'll enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, your adventure will continue through the rugged terrain of rocks and sandstone mountains, ultimately arriving in the region of Tihen Ikrar, where you'll set up your bivouac amidst the refreshing shade of tamarisk trees.
As the evening falls, you will indulge in a delicious hot dinner by the crackling fire under the gentle glow of the starlit sky.
Day 6 : Essendilène - Tigharghart
In the morning, you will explore the Essendilène valley, renowned for its abundant tamarisk trees and the lush vegetation surrounding its guelta.
During your journey, you will have the opportunity to visit a semi-nomadic Tuareg family in their traditional huts. Here, you will have a chance to meet the wise patriarch who possesses deep knowledge of the region.
After this encounter, you will venture further into the depths of the Essendilène canyon, where you will discover the famous guelta known for its pink laurels and its emerald-green water.
If the water temperature permits, some may even choose to take a refreshing swim, while others can simply dip their feet in its coolness.
Continuing the expedition, you will visit the former refuge of the esteemed French mountaineer and guide, the late Roger Frison Roche. He developed a profound love for the Algerian Sahara and wrote several renowned books about the region, including the famous "Le rendez-vous d’Essendilène".
You will then retrace your steps to go have a picnic near the small village of the semi-nomadic Tuaregs you encountered earlier.
In the afternoon, it will be time to bid farewell to your faithful companions, the dromedaries, as you board the four-wheel drives that will transport you back to Djanet City. You will first follow wadi Essendilen, then traverse the vast Admer erg with its seemingly endless dunes, and finally reach erg Tifertasent, where you can admire the harmonious blend of sand and rocks.
The day will conclude with your arrival in the Tigharghart region, where you will visit the famous "crying cow" engraving that date back thousands of years. Not far from there, you will set up your camp for the evening and enjoy dinner.
Day 7 : Tigharghart - Djanet
In the morning, you will once again board the 4x4 vehicles and head towards Djanet City. Along the way, you will make a stop at one of Mother Nature's most astonishing creations, the "stone elephant", which has been carved by wind erosion into solid rock.
Upon reaching the Djanet city, you will have the opportunity to indulge in a refreshing hot shower or relax in a traditional hammam.
Feeling rejuvenated from this well-deserved bathing time, you will then be taken to one of the city's palm groves, where lunch will be served.
The afternoon will be dedicated to visiting Djanet city's landmarks, including the ancient ksar, Djanet's prehistorical museum, and the local market, where you can purchase souvenirs to commemorate your journey.
The day will conclude with a final moment of togetherness, either around a Meshwi (barbecued lamb) during a musical evening or enjoying dinner with a local family, immersing yourself in their warm and welcoming hospitality.
* Diner type -Meshwi or local house diner- will be offered depending on two criterias, the size of the group and attendees’ preferences.
Day 8 : Return flight
The night between day 7 and day 8, your guide and all your accompanying team will drive you to the airport to take your night flight, usually scheduled at 4 am.
N.B
Your guide may have to modify the itinerary mentioned above, in cases of absolute necessity such as weather conditions, road conditions, health of the participants or any other cause related to the safety of the group.
Technical information
TOUR DETAILS
BUDGET
LUGGAGE AND EQUIPEMENTS
REGION INFORMATION
TOUR DETAILS
Departure Point
The all-included tour begins upon your arrival at Djanet's Airport and extends until your departure from the same airport.
Transportation
This itinerary consists of several days of hiking, accompanied by dromedaries. The dromedaries, apart from one, will be solely dedicated to transporting luggage and necessary equipment for the tour. The remaining dromedary will be saddled and available for hikers to ride in turn, if desired.
Physical Level required
7 to 8 hours of walking per day on average, including some altitude changes with a lunch break in the middle. It is therefore necessary to have a suitable physical level.
Accompanying Team
The team accompanying you consists entirely of local individuals.
It includes:
It includes:
- At least one experienced and state-certified guide (French and/or English speaking)
- A cook (and possibly his assistant helper for large or medium groups)
- One or more camel drivers who will care for your camel companions.
Accomodation
Nights are spent in bivouacs, using igloo-style tents* and foam mattresses provided to you.
Please note that you are responsible for setting up and dismantling the tents.
You will need to bring your own sleeping bag (refer to the "Luggage and Equipment" section for guidance on choosing one). However, that part is not mandatory as Blankets will also be provided.
*Please be aware that tent assignments are based on availability, with priority given to those who registered first for the tour. You will be notified of the tent availability along with the provided quote.
Please note that you are responsible for setting up and dismantling the tents.
You will need to bring your own sleeping bag (refer to the "Luggage and Equipment" section for guidance on choosing one). However, that part is not mandatory as Blankets will also be provided.
*Please be aware that tent assignments are based on availability, with priority given to those who registered first for the tour. You will be notified of the tent availability along with the provided quote.
Meals
Your meals will be prepared on-site by a skilled cook using local ingredients.
At noon, you can enjoy well-filled and filling composed salads, and in the evening, you'll be served hot dishes.
The menu offers simple but high-quality options, including couscous, Taguella (bread cooked in hot sand and served with sauce), pasta, rice, potatoes, dried vegetables, seasonal vegetables, and fruits for dessert.
For breakfast, you can expect a European-style meal with coffee, tea, bread, and butter.
In the afternoon, a small snack will be provided, consisting of tea, dates, and cookies.
At noon, you can enjoy well-filled and filling composed salads, and in the evening, you'll be served hot dishes.
The menu offers simple but high-quality options, including couscous, Taguella (bread cooked in hot sand and served with sauce), pasta, rice, potatoes, dried vegetables, seasonal vegetables, and fruits for dessert.
For breakfast, you can expect a European-style meal with coffee, tea, bread, and butter.
In the afternoon, a small snack will be provided, consisting of tea, dates, and cookies.
Water and Hygiene
Drinking Water
Water is a scarce resource in the desert region, so it's important to conserve it out of respect for the local communities.
The water provided for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth will be stored in jerricans. While the water is drinkable, it is recommended to use water purification tablets (such as ©Micropur or ©Hydroclonazone) as a precautionary measure.
To minimize plastic waste and promote ecological practices, bottled mineral water is not included in the basic package. However, if you would like to have bottled water during your tour, you can request it when booking your tour, and your local guide will provide it for an additional fee payable on-site. Please remember to dispose of empty bottles in the designated garbage bag.
Daily Hygiene
In the desert environment, taking showers is not feasible. However, despite popular belief, the dry climate means you won't sweat excessively, making it easier to go without a shower. Hygienic wipes are an excellent alternative for staying clean and fresh. For environmental reasons, it is recommended to use biodegradable wipes.
Water is a scarce resource in the desert region, so it's important to conserve it out of respect for the local communities.
The water provided for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth will be stored in jerricans. While the water is drinkable, it is recommended to use water purification tablets (such as ©Micropur or ©Hydroclonazone) as a precautionary measure.
To minimize plastic waste and promote ecological practices, bottled mineral water is not included in the basic package. However, if you would like to have bottled water during your tour, you can request it when booking your tour, and your local guide will provide it for an additional fee payable on-site. Please remember to dispose of empty bottles in the designated garbage bag.
Daily Hygiene
In the desert environment, taking showers is not feasible. However, despite popular belief, the dry climate means you won't sweat excessively, making it easier to go without a shower. Hygienic wipes are an excellent alternative for staying clean and fresh. For environmental reasons, it is recommended to use biodegradable wipes.
Young Children
Children aged 4 and above can enjoy this type of tour if they are carried by an adult, or children starting from the age of 7-8 years for children who are used to hicking.
While the team members are not specifically trained to care for children, they are willing volunteers who can assist you with their needs.
If you are planning to bring children under the age of 7, it is preferable to be in a smaller group of 5 people or less to allow more flexibility in caring for your children.
While the team members are not specifically trained to care for children, they are willing volunteers who can assist you with their needs.
If you are planning to bring children under the age of 7, it is preferable to be in a smaller group of 5 people or less to allow more flexibility in caring for your children.
BUDGET
The Tour Price Includes
- Transportation in a 4X4 vehicle throughout the duration of the tour, including transfers to and from Djanet's airport.
- Three main meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), as well as a snack and the famous Tuareg tea.
- Accommodation in bivouacs (refer to the "Accommodation" section in "TOUR DETAILS").
- A team of guides consisting of 100% local population (refer to the "Accompanying Team" section in "TOUR DETAILS").
- Visits to sites, entrance fees to natural parks, and participation in activities as indicated in the program.
- A complimentary cheche as a gift from Tatrit Discovery on the first day of the tour.
The Tour Price does NOT include
- Domestic and/or international flights
- Cancellation and/or repatriation insurance
- Visa fees (refer to the FAQ, section "Visa")
- Drinks other than water in jerricans (refer to "Water and hygiene" section in "TOUR DETAILS")
- Personal expenses
- Tips (refer to the "Tipping" section below)
Currency and Payment Methods
The local currency in Algeria is the Algerian dinar (DZD). You can easily exchange it at banks or exchange offices at the airport in Algiers.
Finding an ATMs accepting foreign debit or credit cards in Algiers is not an easy task, but is still possible. However, you won't find any of those in Djanet.
Some stores in Djanet’s market accept Euros with a favorable exchange rate. If needed, your guide can assist you in getting the best rate.
For more information, please refer to the FAQ page under the section "What currency and how to pay for your purchases?"
Finding an ATMs accepting foreign debit or credit cards in Algiers is not an easy task, but is still possible. However, you won't find any of those in Djanet.
Some stores in Djanet’s market accept Euros with a favorable exchange rate. If needed, your guide can assist you in getting the best rate.
For more information, please refer to the FAQ page under the section "What currency and how to pay for your purchases?"
On-site Budget
Although meals are included in the package, it is advisable to have a small budget for personal expenses (such as for purchasing local crafts, giving tips, etc.) and carry enough cash with you. Your budget in Djanet will depend on your desired purchases. As a rough estimate, an average budget of 5000 DZD per adult (including tips) should be sufficient for the duration of your stay in Djanet.
Tipping
Tips are not mandatory, but they are highly appreciated. They should reflect your satisfaction with the quality of the service, the hospitality, and the attentiveness of the accompanying team throughout your stay. Tipping is a way to show your gratitude if you are happy with the service.
As a general guideline, if you contribute to a collective tip with other tour participants, you can consider an amount of more or less, 2000 DZD per person (the exact amount can vary depending on your level of satisfaction).
As a general guideline, if you contribute to a collective tip with other tour participants, you can consider an amount of more or less, 2000 DZD per person (the exact amount can vary depending on your level of satisfaction).
LUGGAGE AND EQUIPEMENTS
Luggages type
- Soft travel bags are highly recommended as they are easier to load on the camels backs. Please avoid suitcases and bags with wheels as the sand can get stuck and damage the wheels. The weight of your travel bags should not exceed 15 kg per person. Note that you will not have access to your bags during the day, but you will get them back each evening when unloading for the bivouac.
- It is also recommended to bring a backpack with a capacity of approximately 25 liters. This will be useful for carrying your daily essentials such as a water bottle, a jacket, your camera, etc.
What to Pack in Your luggage
Personal pharmacy
If you chose to bring a sleeping bag
- Your regular medication if you are under medical treatment
- Pain killers
- Cold and sore throat remedies
- Anti-inflammatory ointment like ©Voltaren for sprains
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Antispasmodic medication
- Broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment: enough for an 8-day course
- Eye drops (for dust, eye infections) and an antibiotic eye cream
- Water purifying tablets like ©Micropur forte or ©Aquatabs
- Elastic adhesive tape (such as ©Elastoplast, 6 cm wide)
- Assorted adhesive bandages
- Disinfecting compresses, non-stick dressings, and sterile dressings
- blister patches for your feet
- High protection sunscreen
- Sunburn cream like ©Biafine
- Insulated water bottle (minimum 1 L)
- Flashlight and/or headlamp
- Swiss Army knife or folding knife (to be packed in checked luggage)
- Quick-drying towel
- Toiletries (preferably biodegradable products)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper (preferably biodegradable)
- Lighter for burning paper waste (to be packed in checked luggage)
- Small waterproof pouch for keeping money safe
- Strong plastic bags for packing belongings
- Small bags for garbage disposal
- Hearing protection (optional)
- Small sewing kit
- Portable charger (Power Bank) for recharging cameras, phones, or other electronic devices
- Sunglasses
- Hat or cap + neck protection (a chèche will also be provided, which can be used as a scarf or head covering for wind and sand protection)
- Breathable shoes with soft soles: Hiking shoes are preferred, but sports sneakers can also be suitable (no mesh fabric as the sand will get inside)
- Sandals or comfortable easy slip shoes for the evening
- 1 or 2 pairs of loose-fitting, lightweight, comfortable pants or shorts for hiking
- Shirts: 2 or 3 pieces, preferably long-sleeved to avoid sunburns
- Socks: Thin socks for hiking and thicker socks for the evening
- Tracksuit or comfortable clothing for the bivouac
- Thermal underwear for nighttime
- Sweater(s) and fleece(s) for evenings or cooler days
- Down jacket, gloves, and hat (for the period from December to February)
If you chose to bring a sleeping bag
- From October to April, choose a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures ranging from -5 °C to +5 °C (comfort temperature)
- From December to February, chose a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures ranging from -15 °C to -5 °C (comfort temperature)
REGION INFORMATION
Uses and custumes
Tuaregs are Muslims, and while they are generally open-minded towards foreign tourists, it's important to be mindful of their cultural norms. To ensure mutual respect, it is recommended to refrain from wearing attire that may be considered inappropriate or overly revealing. This includes avoiding clothing with low-cut necklines, sleeveless tops, or very short shorts or Bermuda shorts.
Climat
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The Saharan climate is extremely arid, and rainfall is nearly non-existent.
During the tourist season, which spans from September to May, the most pleasant periods are typically from early October to mid-December and from mid-March to late April. The nights are consistently chilly. Episodes of sandstorms can occur from late February to early March. |
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Photos
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