Our trek in Tassili n'Ajjer National Park: A Hidden Gem in Algeria's Sahara Desert

Country

Algeria

Published

Jul 25, 2026 10:52 AM

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The place
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The place

Tassili n'Ajjer National Park is a breathtaking expanse of desert in southeastern Algeria. Spanning over 72,000 square kilometers, it ranks among the world's largest national parks.

During our week-long expedition, we trekked seven hours daily through the park's rocky labyrinths, dry valleys, canyons, and dunes. The area features some of the Sahara's most dramatic and beautiful landscapes. Each night, we found shelter in tents nestled within rock niches offering spectacular views. Our expedition consisted of seven travelers supported by eight local experts—including a guide, translator, cook, musician, and mule handlers who managed fourteen donkeys carrying our supplies.

What makes Tassili n'Ajjer truly extraordinary is its remarkable collection of prehistoric rock art—housing one of the world's most important concentrations of ancient cave paintings.

Situated high on a vast plateau in the Sahara Desert, the park commands spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore its many wonders, including the famous "La vache qui pleure" (the crying cow) rock engravings—masterpieces carved over 7,000 years ago.

Beyond its natural beauty and historical significance, Tassili n'Ajjer is home to the Tuareg people—a prominent Berber ethnic group with a rich nomadic heritage. Here, visitors can experience their distinctive culture and traditions firsthand, creating meaningful connections with the local community.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tassili n'Ajjer is a remarkable destination where history, nature, and culture intersect. This prestigious designation highlights the park's unique value as a place where visitors can explore these three captivating elements.

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Names of the places

Key locations visited during our trek in Tassili National Park (alternate spellings possible):

Day 1 (13 April 2023) Daw Tehe (National Park of Tassili); Bivouac at Tafalalat area.

Day 2 (14 April 2023) Tazerghpet Aghob Canyon Tekbal Ounfas (climbing section) Tamarit (lunch and bivouac) Tan Zonmayter (The Big Canyon) Les Siprets (the trees)

Day 3 (15 April 2023) In Goupa and Ouan Alewen areas In Ittlen (rock paintings) Tetaghast N'Elyes In Attouhami (rock paintings) Sefar (lunch) White Sefar and Tin Tferiest (rock paintings)

Day 4 (16 April 2023) Tin Tazarift and Tin Tferiest areas Sefar (lunch) Black Sefar

Day 5 (17 April 2023) Tin Terasouten area Tiswar (rock paintings) Tin Msewess (lunch) Tin Keni Alaghendemen (bivouac)

Day 6 (18 April 2023) Ijabaren (lunch) Ijabaren Paintingstings;