Immersion in Tadrart Rouge

From In Djaren to Tin Merzougat

The Tadrart is explored on foot, assisted by 4x4 vehicles, in the company of Tuareg guides who know the region and its secrets perfectly. We travel through canyons, plateaus, dunes, and natural arches. Admire the endless horizons, the changing lights at the end of the day, and the starry nights, offering an unforgettable experience in this desert landscape.

Trip Description

The Tadrart Rouge is an exceptional region, offering travelers breathtaking landscapes. This sandstone massif stretches for 150 km from north to south and 30 km from east to west, forming the southern extension of the Libyan Tadrart Akakus. Its name, which means "little red mountain," refers to the characteristic red color of its rocks and sand. A true paradise for nature and history lovers, the Tadrart Rouge is home to an invaluable cultural heritage. Thousands of rock paintings dating from the Neolithic period have been discovered there, offering a fascinating testimony to the lives of the ancient inhabitants of the Sahara, at a time when the climate was wetter and greener.

Accomodation

Guesthouse or small hotel in Djanet, Saharan bivouac in the desert

Stay program

day 1
Departing from Europe, heading to Djanet via Algiers.
Your adventure begins with a departure from Paris to Algiers, where you will be welcomed by the charm of the Algerian capital. After completing the visa formalities at Algiers airport, we will take a flight to Djanet. Your arrival in Djanet is scheduled for around 01:30 in the night from Day 1 to Day 2. You will then be transferred to your hotel for a well-deserved night's rest, enjoying the comfort and local hospitality before starting your Saharan adventure. By default, we offer trips departing from Paris. However, you have the option to take advantage of all flights to Algiers departing from many European cities. International and domestic flights are not included in our offer, but we can help you organize them upon simple request.
day 2
By off-road vehicle, on the way to the Tadrart.
After a revitalizing breakfast, we head to the Tassili N’Ajjer National Park office to complete the necessary formalities. Then, we head south, flanked by the imposing Ajjer cliffs to the east and the majestic dunes of the Admer erg to the west. In our sights, the tip of Tiska rises like a beacon in the vast expanses of Tafassasset. Little by little, the Ajjer cliff sinks into the sands, and we enter a spectacular gorge, marking the entrance to the Tadrart, the little mountain. As we move forward, the first rock art sites appear, bearing witness to the rich history of this region. We take this opportunity to go for a walk of about an hour, leading us to the bivouac of the In Djaren wadi. This magical place offers us a first immersion into the wild beauty of the desert. *Discovery or hiking?* This trip is assisted by vehicles, which allows you to adjust the travel according to your wishes. Do you want to walk? You can do so at your own pace with our guide and meet up with the vehicles at well-defined locations. Do you prefer to travel by car and take a few walks of 2 or 3 hours maximum at the sites? We adapt the trip according to your wishes. This trip is very flexible according to your desires and is perfectly suited for a first approach to the desert for children. Our goal is to offer you a tailor-made experience, where every detail is designed to meet your expectations. Whether you are an experienced ranger or a novice in search of discovery, our team will guide and advise you so that every moment is memorable.
day 3
Discovering the canyons of In Djaren: towards the Tamesguida arch
We wander through the main canyon of In Djaren, amazed by the richness and diversity of the parietal sites that compose it. Mainly consisting of engravings, these works are accompanied by some cave paintings, offering a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of this region. As we progress, the landscape transforms before our eyes, plunging us into a maze of rocks and sands. Each turn reveals new geological formations, creating a natural spectacle as varied as it is captivating. Suddenly, the majestic arch of Tamesguida rises before us, imposing and mysterious. It bears witness to the grandeur and wild beauty of this desert landscape, leaving a lasting impression of its immensity and its mystery.
day 4
Exploration of Moul N’Aga and the Ruiniform Tadrart
We head south until we find ourselves facing the great dunes of Moul N’Aga, which block our horizon like an immense wall of sand. These imposing dunes offer us a breathtaking natural spectacle. We now navigate between dunes and cliffs. From the high points, the panorama is simply incredible: the ruiniform Tadrart stretches out before us, a landscape where jagged rocks, steep peaks, and canyons intermingle, all anchored in red sands. Each step reveals a new spectacle, a new geological wonder sculpted by time and the elements. The shades of red in the sands contrast with the azure sky, creating a striking palette of colors that never ceases to amaze us.
day 5
Enchanted crossing: from the oueds to the dunes of Tin Merzouga
We are making our way towards Tin Merzouga, following the Ouan Zaouaten and Bouhedien wadis, which run alongside magnificent dune ridges. These stretches of sand, shaped by the wind, offer a hypnotic natural spectacle. Our route takes us past dizzying spires and monumental arches, standing in the middle of valleys, as well as canyons with surprising walls, carved into ochre rock with sandy bases. Each geological formation reveals to us an ancient story, sculpted by time and the elements. This day ends with a walk in the dune cirque of Tin Merzouga. The landscapes, which have followed one another all day like a kaleidoscope of images, have offered a feast for the eyes and an unforgettable experience in the heart of the wild nature.
day 6
The beautiful dune of Tin Merzouga, the distant horizons.
We wander through majestic scenery, surrounded by sandstone towers that dominate the surrounding landscape. Our path leads us to the surprising site of Imesnegha, where erosion has sculpted fascinating caves. After exploring these caves, polished by time and the elements, we return to the red dunes to enjoy the end of the day. The setting sun tints the sands with warm hues, offering a natural spectacle of captivating beauty, perfect for ending this day of adventure.
day 7
The Tassili, then return to Djanet by car.
By the track, we leave the Tadrart towards Djanet, a journey that will take us about five hours through captivating desert landscapes. This trip offers us a last opportunity to soak in the beauty and serenity of the desert before our return to civilization. Upon our arrival in Djanet, a good shower awaits us to refresh ourselves after this long road. Reinvigorated, we then set out to discover the capital of the Ajjer. We explore its picturesque alleys, where every corner reveals a part of the rich local history, and we immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of its iconic market, where Tuareg culture unfolds in all its splendor through colors, fabrics, and local crafts. After a final dinner, savoring the local delights one last time, we head to the airport around 10:30 p.m. It is with our minds filled with unforgettable memories of our Saharan adventure that we leave this land of contrasts and wonders.
day 8
Flight to Algiers, then home.
We assist you with check-in in the middle of the Saharan night, under a starry sky that adds a magical touch to this stage of your journey. After the check-in formalities, you board your flight that will take you to Algiers in the early morning. Upon your arrival, you can continue your journey to Paris or other destinations.