Ihrir
Duration: 7 days
Trek includes:
– Daily walking
– Support vehicle(s)
Day 1: Heading for Erg Admer and the mysterious Tegharghart
Our adventure begins in the captivating vastness of the Erg Admer dunes, one of the largest dune complexes in the Sahara. We hike through this sea of sand until we reach the remarkable site of Tegharghart. Here lies the famous rock carving of the "crying cow," dating back over 7,000 years. This Neolithic masterpiece, recognized by both Tuaregs and researchers, impresses with the finesse of its engraving and the emotion it evokes.
Day 2: The Iherir Oasis, a Saharan green setting
We leave the dunes to enter the Iherir Valley, a true natural gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This oasis, a rare body of water in the region, is home to lush flora bordering wadis and gueltas. A true sanctuary of life in the middle of the desert, Iherir invites us to contemplate and discover a unique ecosystem.
Day 3: Idharen and Tin Taghirt: Between Traditions and Ancient Art
Near the oasis, we visit the site of Idharen, an ancient traditional village where nomads built their huts during the date harvest season. These reed and stone constructions blend perfectly into the landscape. Further on, in Tin Taghirt, we admire impressive rock carvings, including the famous gazelle depicted on the 1,000 dinar banknotes. These works tell a profound story, that of the first inhabitants of the Sahara and their sacred connection with nature.
Day 4: The Essendilène Canyon and its Natural Wonders
We begin an immersive hike through the oleanders of the Essendilène Canyon. The trail, lined with flowering shrubs, leads to a guelta with emerald waters nestled between the rocky walls of the canyon. Along the way, we encounter a nomadic encampment, a rare opportunity to share a special moment with Tuareg families, discovering their hospitality and ancestral way of life.
Day 5: Tikoubaouine, Between Natural Sculptures and Prehistoric Heritage
We continue through sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time. At Tikoubaouine, a stone arch evoking an elephant emerges from the desert like a mirage. The site also contains rock paintings depicting scenes of life, hunting, and rituals. An ancient pre-Islamic tomb reminds us of the profound history of this region rich in mysteries.
Day 6: Adaik, the “Little Sefar”
The landscape becomes increasingly spectacular as we reach Adaik, nicknamed the “Little Sefar.” Here, nature has shaped a veritable mineral forest where each rock seems to tell a story frozen in time. The day ends with an unforgettable sunset, followed by a night under a starry sky of rare purity.
Day 7: Djanet, the beating heart of Tuareg culture
To conclude our journey, we head to Djanet, a charming oasis and Tuareg cultural center. We stroll through the alleys of the old town and explore the local market, a true showcase of desert crafts: jewelry, fabrics, and traditional objects. Before leaving, a relaxing break with the option of a shower is planned, then we spend our last night in a bivouac near the airport, between sky and sand.
Itinerary
