Tassili n'Ajjer: An Ancient Open-Air Museum

Explore Tassili n'Ajjer: A breathtaking Sahara plateau with ancient rock art, stunning landscapes, and a window into prehistoric life.

4.7

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Algeria
High Plateaus
Tassili n'Ajjer

Tassili n'Ajjer, a mountain range in the Algerian Sahara, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its stunning desert landscapes and prehistoric rock art. It's a vast plateau showcasing the evolution of human life and climate changes through thousands of years of rock paintings and engravings.

A brief summary to Tassili n'Ajjer

Illizi, DZ

Local tips

Hire a local Tuareg guide for the best experience; they possess invaluable knowledge of the area and its history.
Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense Saharan heat.
Obtain necessary permits through a government-approved tour agency in Djanet.
Pack ample water, snacks, and sun protection, as facilities within the park are limited.
Respect the rock art by not touching or defacing the paintings and engravings.

Getting There

Flying

The most common way to reach Tassili n'Ajjer is by flying to Djanet Airport (DJG) from Algiers. Air Algérie operates regular flights. From Djanet, you'll need to arrange a tour with a local agency, as access to the park is restricted and requires a permit and a guide. A roundtrip flight from Algiers to Djanet typically costs between $211-$311. Once in Djanet, tour costs vary, but expect to pay around €60 per person per day, which includes transportation within the park, guide services, and permits.
4x4 Vehicle

From Djanet, the journey into Tassili n'Ajjer typically involves a 4x4 vehicle, as the terrain is rugged and requires off-road capabilities. The drive from Djanet to the Tassili n'Ajjer park entrance takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the specific area you are visiting. This is usually included in the tour package. Remember to confirm with your tour operator the specifics of the vehicle and the route. There are no tolls, but fuel costs are factored into the tour price.
Walking/Trekking

Once inside Tassili n'Ajjer, much of the exploration is done on foot. Be prepared for several hours of walking and hiking each day, often in sandy and rocky terrain. Depending on the specific sites you visit, some areas may require climbing or scrambling over rocks. There are no additional costs associated with walking or trekking, but it's essential to have appropriate footwear and gear. Donkeys or dromedaries can be hired through your tour operator to assist with carrying equipment, but this should be arranged in advance.

Discover more about Tassili n'Ajjer

Tassili n'Ajjer, meaning 'plateau of rivers', is a remarkable mountain range located in the Sahara Desert of southeastern Algeria. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans over 72,000 square kilometers, bordering Libya and Niger, and protects one of the most significant concentrations of prehistoric cave art in the world. The area's geological formations are as captivating as its art. Millennia of erosion have sculpted a lunar-like landscape featuring sandstone forests, deep gorges, and towering rock pillars. These unique formations create a dramatic backdrop for the ancient art that adorns the rock faces. The rock art of Tassili n'Ajjer tells a vivid story of the Sahara's past, with over 15,000 drawings and engravings dating back as far as 6000 BC. These artworks depict scenes of daily life, hunting, and animal migrations, offering invaluable insights into the cultural and environmental changes that have shaped the region. Notable images include depictions of cattle, wildlife, and human figures, reflecting a time when the Sahara was much wetter and more hospitable. Visiting Tassili n'Ajjer is an immersive experience that combines natural beauty with profound historical significance. The park is also a Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its importance for biodiversity and conservation. Exploring this ancient open-air museum requires a sense of adventure and respect for the delicate desert environment.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

كهوف طاسيلي اللوحات

3.0 km

Explore ancient rock art & stunning landscapes in Algeria's Tassili n'Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Sahara's prehistoric treasures.

Ouarsisene

56.6 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Ouarsisene Plateau in Bordj El Haouas, Algeria. A serene escape into the heart of the Sahara.

Unmissable attractions to see

Tassili n'Ajjer

0.0 km

Explore the ancient rock art and stunning desert landscapes of Tassili n'Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Sahara.

جبال إليزي

12.4 km

استكشف المناظر الطبيعية الصحراوية الخلابة والمنحدرات الشاهقة في جبال إليزي، جوهرة الطاسيلي ناجر.

منعرج السطايفية

18.7 km

Discover the serene beauty of the Algerian desert at منعرج السطايفية in Illizi, a haven for nature lovers and photographers.

Neolithic tomb

31.1 km

Uncover the mysteries of ancient Sahara at the Neolithic tomb of Illizi, a window into Algeria's prehistoric past.

هضبة تاجلاهين

50.2 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of هضبة تاجلاهين, a hiking gem near Bordj El Haouas, Algeria.

Oued Ihrir

52.5 km

Discover Oued Ihrir: A tranquil Algerian oasis with stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and ancient rock art in the heart of the Sahara.

Ihrir

53.1 km

Discover Ihrir, a hidden oasis in the Tassili n'Ajjer mountains, offering ancient rock art and stunning natural beauty in the Algerian Sahara.

وادي جرات

62.7 km

Explore Wadi Djerat's ancient rock art, a journey through millennia of Sahara's history and culture, near Illizi, Algeria.

Tiwardhiwéne

92.4 km

Discover Tiwardhiwéne: An Algerian jewel offering stunning desert landscapes, rich culture, and serene tranquility in the heart of the Sahara.

Ta-n-Toura

98.0 km

Discover the majestic dunes of Ta-n-Toura in Illizi, Algeria, a serene Sahara Desert escape offering adventure and breathtaking natural beauty.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Fadnoun فضنون

5.3 km

Discover the authentic spirit of Illizi at Fadnoun, where local craftsmanship meets warm hospitality in a unique shopping experience.

Vert Forever

83.4 km

Explore Vert Forever in Illizi, a pet store paradise filled with quality supplies and a welcoming atmosphere for all animal lovers.

مؤسسة البخاري

83.6 km

Explore the charm of مؤسسة البخاري, your essential convenience store in Illizi, Algeria, for snacks, beverages, and local delights.

auto DZ

83.6 km

Explore Auto DZ in Illizi for a comprehensive range of car accessories, enhancing performance and style for every vehicle enthusiast.

الف ليلة وليلة للعطور 1001parfums

83.7 km

Explore the captivating world of fragrances at 1001 Parfums in Illizi, a paradise for beauty and perfume lovers.

سوق الخضر

83.8 km

Explore the vibrant Souk El Khodhar in Illizi, a market filled with fresh produce, authentic cuisine, and unique handicrafts reflecting local culture.

سوق

83.8 km

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Illizi's market, where local culture and unique treasures await every visitor.

سوق الازياء التقليدية

83.9 km

Explore the vibrant Traditional Fashion Market in Illizi, where local artisans showcase exquisite clothing and accessories, rich in culture and craftsmanship.

CHANEL cosmétiques

84.1 km

Explore the luxury of CHANEL Cosmétiques in Illizi, where elegance meets beauty in an exquisite shopping experience.

سيبرات العمري للتجارة المتعددة

84.1 km

Convenient shopping experience in Illizi, Algeria, offering essential goods for travelers exploring the region.

superette AMIMER RABEH

84.3 km

Explore the local culture at Superette Amimer Rabeh, a charming store in Illizi where authentic Algerian products await your discovery.

زجاج و أكسسوار السيارات Tassili Glass

84.4 km

Explore Tassili Glass in Illizi for exceptional automotive glass and accessories, blending local culture with quality service.

تغليف السيارات، تغليف و تلميع الأضواء، لوحات الترقيم، فيمي

84.5 km

Discover the charm of local shopping and craftsmanship at تغليف السيارات, Illizi's vibrant shopping mall, offering unique products and a friendly atmosphere.

تغليف السيارات، تغليف و تلميع الأضواء، لوحات الترقيم، فيمي

محل نور البيان

84.7 km

Explore محل نور البيان, Illizi's premier shopping mall, offering diverse shops, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

Lahcen cosmétique