Visit Djanet, the Pearl of the South Algerian Sahara
Djanet, the Pearl of the Algerian Sahara
If you’re looking for an exotic, authentic, and discovery-rich destination, look no further: Djanet is made for you. This oasis, situated in the southeast of Algeria, near the border with Libya, is the gateway to the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Djanet offers you a journey through time, meeting the nomadic peoples of the desert, exploring grand landscapes, and discovering the treasures of rock art.
What to see and do in Djanet ?
Djanet is a human-scale city where strolling through the streets lined with earthen houses, mosques, and colorful markets is delightful. You can admire traditional architecture using local materials such as sand, stone, and palm trees. You can also savor regional culinary specialties made from dates, couscous, millet cakes, and mint tea.
But the real allure of Djanet is its exceptional location at the foot of the Tassili n’Ajjer plateau, spanning over 70,000 km2. This massif, reaching over 2,000 meters in altitude, is an open-air museum where you can admire thousands of engravings and rock paintings dating back several millennia. These artworks bear witness to the lives of the ancient inhabitants of the Sahara, who experienced wetter and greener periods.
You can observe scenes of hunting, fishing, dancing, rituals, as well as depictions of animals now extinct, such as elephants, giraffes, rhinoceroses, or crocodiles.
To explore the Tassili n’Ajjer, you have several options: opt for a day or multi-day hiking accompanied by a local guide who will introduce you to the most remarkable sites. Alternatively, choose a 4×4 excursion to cover greater distances and enjoy panoramic viewpoints. Finally, experience something unique by participating in a camel caravan, a meharée, to travel like the desert nomads. Regardless of the formula you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to sleep under the stars in comfortable bivouacs and share friendly moments with the locals.
When to go to Djanet ?
Djanet has a desert climate with high temperatures throughout the year, exceeding 40°C in summer, and very rare precipitation. The best time to visit Djanet and the Tassili n’Ajjer is in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when temperatures are milder, and the landscapes are greener. Winter (December to February) can be a good option if you can withstand the cold since nights can be frosty, but you might have the chance to see snow on the Tassili peaks.
To reach Djanet, you can take a flight from Algiers, the capital of Algeria, or from other cities in the country such as Tamanrasset, Oran, or Constantine. Djanet has an international airport hosting regular and charter flights. You can also reach Djanet by road, taking the Trans-Saharan Highway, crossing the country from north to south, but be prepared for a journey of several days and ensure you are well-equipped.
How to Book Your Stay in Djanet ?
If you are tempted by this Saharan adventure, don’t hesitate to contact Sahara Africa Tours, an Algerian agency specializing in organizing trips in the Algerian Sahara. We offer tailor-made circuits, adapted to your desires, budget, and comfort level. Whether you are with family, friends, or solo, we will make your experience unforgettable, discovering the beauty and diversity of the Algerian Sahara. For more information, visit our website¹ or contact us by phone or email. We will be happy to answer all your questions and help you prepare your journey.
See you soon in Djanet!
Plan your responsible tour in the Algerian Desert.
Djanet, Illizi, Algeria
contact@sahara-africa-tours.com
- In France : Laid : +33 6 51 28 04 04
- In Algeria : Moussa : +213 6 63 51 27 79
