Nestled within the vast Sahara, the oasis of Djanet, a picturesque spot in Algeria, is seeing an uptick in foreign visitors keen on experiencing its unparalleled desert landscapes. The 2021 introduction of visa-on-arrival has drastically increased its allure. Over 4,000 visitors have explored this desert jewel located over 2,300 km southeast of Algiers, drawn not only to Djanet but also the mesmerizing Tassili n’Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This national park is a photographer’s paradise with its surreal rock formations and hues ranging from deep oranges to midnight blacks, especially during sunset. Karim Benacine, a 57-year-old French tourist affiliated with Universal Music, shared his irresistible urge to revisit Djanet, echoing the sentiments of many.
One of Tassili’s outstanding features is its ancient rock art, documenting climatic shifts, fauna migrations, and human life evolution over millennia. UNESCO showcases this region as home to one of the most significant collections of prehistoric art, capturing over 15,000 drawings and engravings.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 posed challenges to global tourism. In response, Algerian authorities emphasized Saharan tourism, facilitating visa procurements at southern airports and initiating a direct flight route from Paris to Djanet.
Data from 2022 indicates a marked increase in foreign visitation, with over 2,900 visitors from 35 different countries, predominantly from the West. This growth is in addition to 17,000 Algerian natives drawn to Djanet’s charm.
Samira Ramouni, an Algerian psychologist, describes her stay in Djanet as a rejuvenating experience, a chance to reconnect, learn, and recharge.
Abdelkader Regagda, a tourism agency director from Tamanrasset, another significant Southern Algerian location, credits the government for fostering a booming tourism pipeline from Europe to southern Algeria. He highlights the diverse tour options available around Djanet.
A testament to its global significance, Tassili n’Ajjer achieved UNESCO World Heritage status for both its cultural and natural richness in 1982 and was later added to the list of biosphere reserves in 1986.