5 places to explore in the Sahara Desert
What's the story
The Sahara Desert, the world's largest hot desert, offers a unique landscape filled with adventure opportunities. Spanning across several countries in North Africa, it is a place of vast sand dunes, ancient rock formations, and breathtaking oases. For those seeking an adventurous experience amidst this arid expanse, the Sahara provides numerous spots that promise excitement and discovery. Here are some of the most remarkable places to explore within this iconic desert.
Sand dunes
Exploring Erg Chebbi dunes
Erg Chebbi is among the most famous sand dune fields in Morocco. The colossal dunes rise up to 150 meters, forming a stunning backdrop for camel trekking, sandboarding, etc. The ever-shifting sands form an enchanting landscape that transforms with the light of the day. Travelers often camp overnight to see breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the dunes.
Rock formations
Discovering Tassili n'Ajjer National Park
Located in southeastern Algeria, Tassili n'Ajjer National Park is famous for its unusual rock formations and prehistoric art. The park has thousands of ancient petroglyphs depicting scenes from early human life. The dramatic sandstone structures make for excellent hiking and photography opportunities amid a surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
Oasis Exploration
Journey to Siwa Oasis
Egypt's Siwa Oasis provides a lush contrast to its desert environment. Famous for its natural springs and salt lakes, Siwa is an ideal place to unwind after days of exploring sandy terrains. The oasis is also rich in history, with ruins like Temple of Amun providing a glimpse into ancient Egyptian culture.
Mountain adventure
Trekking through Hoggar Mountains
The Hoggar Mountains in southern Algeria offer a rugged terrain ideal for trekking lovers. This mountain range has volcanic peaks shooting up from the desert floor, offering challenging trails with rewarding views at every turn. The region's cooler climate makes it accessible 365 days a year unlike other parts of the Sahara.
Salt flats
Experiencing Chott El Jerid Salt Flats
Chott el Jerid in Tunisia is one of North Africa's largest salt flats, spanning about 5,000 square kilometers during dry seasons. Water evaporates, leaving behind vast expanses covered by white crusts. As the crusts reflect sunlight brilliantly, they create mirage-like illusions across its surface. This makes it a popular choice among photographers looking for unique shots capturing nature's artistry at play here.