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Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene: Oasis in the Sahara

Discover the unique beauty of Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene, a Saharan oasis where water meets ancient rock formations and rich Tuareg culture.

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Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene, located in the Hoggar Mountains near Tamanrasset, Algeria, are a series of unique Saharan wetlands that serve as vital water sources for the Tuareg nomads and diverse wildlife. These rocky basins, carved into ancient riverbeds, create a striking contrast to the surrounding desert landscape, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the region's rich ecological and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene

  • CQC7+488, تمنراست،, DZ

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for more comfortable temperatures.
  • Engage with the local Tuareg communities to learn about their traditions and way of life.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert environment can be harsh.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Tamanrasset, head southwest on Route N1. After approximately 30 kilometers, follow signs to Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene. The site is located about 5 kilometers from the main road on CQC7+488. Parking is usually available near the site.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus station in Tamanrasset, take a bus towards Gueltara. Buses typically run every hour and the journey takes about 1 hour, costing around 200 DZD. From Gueltara, take a taxi to Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene, which is approximately 300 DZD and takes 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene

Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural significance in the heart of the Algerian Sahara. These gueltas, or natural rock pools, are found in the Hoggar Mountains, near the city of Tamanrasset, and represent a unique wetland ecosystem in an otherwise arid environment. Formed by the erosion of ancient riverbeds, the gueltas provide a permanent source of water, essential for both the nomadic Tuareg people and a variety of desert wildlife. The landscape surrounding the gueltas is characterized by dramatic rock formations, sculpted by millennia of wind and erosion, creating a lunar-like panorama that is both stark and beautiful. The gueltas are home to several species that have adapted to the harsh desert conditions, including endemic fish, vulnerable cheetahs, dorcas gazelles, and Barbary sheep. The area also supports unique plant life, with species like Fagonia flamandii and Saharan myrtle thriving in this isolated environment. For visitors, Les Gueltates d'Issakarassene offer a chance to connect with nature, witness the resilience of life in the Sahara, and learn about the traditions of the Tuareg people. Engaging with local communities provides insights into their customs, crafts, and the sustainable ways they have adapted to the desert environment. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, when the weather is more conducive to exploration.

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