Tassili n'Ajjer and Djanet: the rock-art plateau of the Algerian Sahara

Tassili n'Ajjer is a vast plateau in south-eastern Algeria, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over some 72,000 km², it holds more than 15,000 rock paintings and engravings, recording thousands of years of life in a Sahara that was once green, along with "forests" of sandstone rocks carved by erosion.

Djanet, the gateway

Visitors discover Tassili from Djanet, an oasis town in the deep south served by flights. This is where tours set off, on foot or by 4x4, to the rock-art sites and the dunes.

When to go

The most pleasant months run from October to April, with mild days and cool nights. Summer is extremely hot.

Tips

1. Travel with a local agency and guide: the sites are remote and mobile coverage is rare.
2. Fly to Djanet rather than travelling by road: the US travel advice warns against overland travel in the Sahara.
3. Check your government's travel advice before you leave (see our article on safety in Algeria).

Sahara tours · Is Algeria safe to visit?

Nreservi, online travel agency — 1st floor, 116 boulevard Colonel Krim Belkacem (Telemly), Algiers Centre — +213 540 28 40 40.