Must Visit Places in Algeria’s Desert
The Algerian government has taken steps to improve its tourism sector by relaxing visa restrictions and offering on-arrival visas for tourists visiting the country’s southern provinces. Although relatively unknown, the southern Algerian desert regions are home to several fascinating destinations that are worth exploring. Here are our top five recommended sites to visit in the southern part of the country.
Tassili N’Ajjer Plateau
The Tassili N’Ajjer Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its awe-inspiring rock formations and prehistoric rock art. For enthusiasts of history and nature, this destination is an absolute must-visit as it provides a window into the bygone civilizations that flourished in this area. The plateau also provides a habitat for an assortment of rare wildlife, including the Saharan cheetah and the Barbary macaque.
Ghardaïa
Renowned for its exceptional architecture and cultural legacy, the charming city of Ghardaïa boasts a plethora of historic landmarks, including the revered Bounoura mosque. The name “Ghardaïa” is derived from the Arabic term for “the cave of Daïa,” who was a revered female Sufi Saint from the Mzab area.
For gastronomy enthusiasts, Ghardaïa presents an ideal destination, featuring a diverse selection of traditional restaurants that offer delectable Algerian cuisine, guaranteed to tantalize taste buds.
Ahaggar Highlands
The steep mountain range of the Ahaggar Highlands offers an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a plethora of activities to choose from, including hiking, climbing, and wildlife watching. This unique terrain, which could easily be mistaken for a location in a science fiction film, is also home to ancient cave paintings and historical sites, such as the Tin Hinan tomb. The tomb was constructed for the legendary Tuareg queen of the Hoggar, adding to the historical significance of this remarkable region.
Timimoun
If you’re seeking a unique travel experience, the small oasis town of Timimoun is the place to visit. Its picturesque red brick buildings, narrow alleys, and palm trees are set against the stunning backdrop of the Sahara desert, creating an unforgettable contrast. Timimoun is an ideal destination to explore on foot as it is small and easy to navigate. The captivating sights of this city are sure to leave a lasting impression on your mind.
Beni Abbes
Beni Abbes is a popular tourist destination situated at the southernmost point of Algeria, near the Sahara Desert. There are several alluring tourist attractions in this region, including the Beni Abbes Museum, which is renowned for its assortment of traditional artifacts like jewelry, pottery, and clothing. Additionally, the museum provides an intriguing insight into the local history and architecture.
One can also visit the Mosque of the Old Ksar that was built during the 17th century, making it one of the oldest mosques in Algeria. The mosque features a minimalist tiling design that exemplifies the country’s architectural expertise, and is an impressive sight to behold.
