Essnedilène
Duration: 7 days
Trek includes:
– Daily walking
– Support vehicle(s)
Day 1 – Djanet to El Akif
After a short night, we visit the local market in Djanet where you can pick up a cheche, useful for protecting against the sun and wind during the trek. From the guesthouse, we begin our walk, crossing an impressive stone plateau that opens up to the dunes of In Aramas. First night under the stars.
Day 2 – El Akif to Taloudtedjart
We traverse a vast desert plateau that leads us to stunning landscapes where rocks rise like islands from the sand. Cirques and small mountain passes guide us to a wadi bordered by stone ridges. After a midday rest, we continue our walk through a rugged mineral terrain to reach the evening’s camp.
Day 3 – Taloudtedjart to Tilliline
The day brings a shift in scenery as sand becomes more present. Following natural corridors of sand and stone — often forming labyrinths — we enter a series of beautiful sandy cirques. After a break, we set out again in the late afternoon to explore the surrounding area and discover our first hidden guelta, nestled deep in a canyon.
Day 4 – Tilliline to Tadatneïdi
We journey through a blend of dunes and rocks, reaching a tranquil spot by midday. In the afternoon, we explore dramatic gorges and the breathtaking canyon of Tuya, walking through a landscape shaped by time and wind. We eventually emerge into a vast plain edged with low stony hills.
Day 5 – Around Tadatneïdi
One of the most scenic walks of the journey. Sandstone formations rise from the desert like sculptures, some forming natural arches. We explore a nearby site rich in prehistoric rock paintings, and return at a gentle pace, soaking in the colors of the desert sunset.
Day 6 – Tadatneïdi to Essendilène
The desert shifts again as sand gives way to stone. We descend toward the legendary oasis of Essendilène, crossing a broad rocky plateau. By late afternoon, we arrive at a canyon filled with sand, glowing with golden and ochre tones as the sun sets. We camp beneath the palms of the oasis.
Day 7 – Essendilène to Djanet
A morning walk leads us through the dramatic canyon of Essendilène, where gueltas hide among the laurel bushes and rock hyraxes scurry along the cliffs. We return to the oasis palm grove for lunch, then begin the drive back to Djanet. On the way, we stop to see the famous “Crying Cow” rock engraving. There’s time for a stroll and some shopping in the Djanet oasis before dinner and rest.
Itinerary
At the slow pace of our camels, we trek between sand and rocks, as if in a movie set. Accompanied by our Tuareg team, attentive to each of our steps, we discover the Sahara, the nomadic life, the simplicity of the desert, devoid of all artifice... Here no network, no noise, no artificial light, just sand, rocks and men... Welcome to Tuareg land, welcome to the heart of the great Sahara, for an extraordinary experience, which will not leave you indifferent, that's for sure!
