Afara, the secret adventure of the volcanic valleys

Highlights

• Volcanic and diverse landscapes
• The nomadic village of Afara
• The famous canyon of Essendilène
• Sumptuous rock paintings and engravings
• Overnight stay in an ikebran, a traditional Tuareg house
• Swimming in the Ihrir oasis
• Meeting with nomads

Program

Djanet – Tinamali

Departure from Europe or Algiers. We are welcomed at Djanet airport, late in the evening, by our team.

Day 1 · Essendilène

We begin our journey towards Essendilène. A beautiful hike awaits us between guelta and oleanders where the rocks tighten to form an impressive canyon. This path, sheltered from the eyes, transports us in a muffled and colored universe to the emerald guelta.

Day 2 · Tasset

We head towards the Tin Taghirt site to discover magnificent Neolithic rock engravings, including the famous gazelle depicted on the 1000 dinar banknotes. Our journey continues to Tassat, a massif adorned with mineral cathedrals and arches. There’s a possibility to witness a magnificent sunset.

Day 3 · Afara

We arrive in an unlikely setting, amidst a succession of hills made of sand and volcanic rocks. Explore the Afara desert and its impressive reliefs echoing world-famous natural sites. We delve into the foothills of the plateau to reach the village of Afara.

Day 4 · Tamadjert

Meet with the nomadic populations of the Tikazer village for a genuine moment of exchange and sharing. We’ll admire the paintings of Ifadaniouen before heading to the Tamadjert oasis to discover the vast gueltas and numerous rock paintings.

Day 5 · Erg Tihoudayen

We arrive in the dune massif of Erg Tihoudayen, where the light sand contrasts with Afara’s volcanic landscape. One can never tire of admiring the contrasting colors of the blue sky, golden or pink sand depending on the time of day, and the dark rocks. A fantastic landscape within the dunes to contemplate an unforgettable sunset.

Day 6 · Ihrir

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ihrir Valley is a haven of greenery encircled by high cliffs. Near Ihrir, we discover Idharen, an ancient village of seasonal huts that were once inhabited by nomads during the date harvest.

Day 7 · Tagharghart – Djanet

We reach the site of Tagharghart to contemplate the very beautiful and famous engraving of «The weeping cow». We return to Djanet with a visit to the old city, the local market, and the possibility to take a shower. We install our last camp in the dunes before joining the airport around midnight.

For unforeseeable reasons (traffic, flight, case of force majeure, climate, etc.) and for the good progress of your trip, our guide may be required to adapt the program.