Frequently asked questions.
General Information:
What are the best times to visit Djanet?
The ideal time to visit is between October and April when temperatures are milder. Summer months can be extremely hot, making desert tourism challenging.
Why the Tassili n’Ajjer?
The Tassili n’Ajjer is one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the Sahara, known for monumental sandstone formations, vast plateaus, prehistoric rock art and remarkable geological diversity. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for both its natural and cultural importance.
Who are the Tuareg?
The Tuareg are an Indigenous Saharan people whose communities extend across Algeria, Libya, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. In the Djanet region, Tuareg culture, language and desert knowledge remain an important part of everyday life. Duneya Tours is Tuareg-owned and operated, and our journeys are led by local guides, drivers, cooks and camel handlers from the region.
how to book:
How do i sign up for a tour?
Complete our registration form for either a scheduled group tour or a private journey. If space is available, Duneya Tours will confirm your booking and provide the necessary documents and invoice.
A non-refundable deposit of €200 per person is required within 7 days of availability confirmation and is deducted from the total tour price.
how do i pay for my tour?
The outstanding balance must be paid in cash upon arrival in Djanet. Alternatively, you may choose to pay the remaining balance by bank transfer no later than 30 days before departure.
deposit policy:
A non-refundable deposit of €200 per person is required within 7 days of availability confirmation to secure your booking. The deposit is deducted from the total tour price.
about our tours:
Is Djanet Safe for Tourists?
Djanet is a remote desert region where tourism is closely regulated. Duneya Tours works with the relevant local authorities, and all entries and exits into the desert are declared as required.
what languages are your tours in?
At Duneya Tours, we pride ourselves on offering tours in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Swiss German, and Arabic. Language availability may vary depending on the departure and guide schedule, so please let us know your preferred language when booking.
what is accommodation like?
Most nights are spent in standard camping tents in the desert. We provide tents, mattresses and blankets, while guests should bring their own sleeping bag.
The experience is intentionally simple and off-grid, with the focus on the landscape, camp life and nights beneath the Saharan sky rather than luxury facilities.
What age groups can join your tours?
There is no upper age limit for our tours, but participants should be in good general health and capable of the level of activity required by their chosen itinerary.
Children under 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian. Some tours, particularly Sefar and camel trekking, are more physically demanding, so please contact us if you are unsure which journey is most suitable for your group.
are there toilets in the desert?
There are no toilets while camping in the desert. Guests use private areas away from camp and water sources.
Water is traditionally used for cleaning. If you prefer toilet paper, please bring biodegradable paper and dispose of it responsibly.
are there showers in the desert?
There are no showers available while in the desert.
is there internet or cell service in the desert?
During your trip in the desert, you can expect to be completely disconnected, as there is no internet or cellular service available.
How physically fit do I need to be for the tours?
Fitness requirements vary depending on the tour. Participants should be in good general health and capable of moderate physical activity in a desert environment.
Our 4×4 journeys can generally be adapted to different walking preferences, while Sefar and camel trekking are more physically demanding.
preparing for your trip:
What is the visa process?
Most travellers visiting Algeria require a visa. Duneya Tours can assist with two options:
Embassy or Consulate Visa
We can provide the supporting documents required for a standard tourist visa application, including a Letter of Invitation where applicable.
Visa on Arrival
Travellers booking a Saharan tour are able to apply for a travel authorization allowing them to obtain their visa upon arrival in Algeria. The authorization process takes a minimum of 15 business days, and we strongly recommend beginning well in advance.
For Visa on Arrival applications, at least 60% of the traveller’s total stay must be in the south.
Visa approval remains at the sole discretion of the Algerian authorities and cannot be guaranteed.
How do I get to djanet?
Most travellers reach Djanet by flying from Algiers with Air Algérie. Flights are limited and generally operate at night.
We recommend booking your flights promptly once you have received written booking confirmation from Duneya Tours. Flights are arranged independently and are not included in the tour price.
Our team will meet you at Djanet Airport on arrival.
What should I pack?
Clothing:
Hat
T-shirts
Long-sleeved shirts
Sweaters
Light jacket
Comfortable pants
Shorts or bermuda shorts
Warm clothing for cold nights
Comfortable walking shoes and/or sandals
Essential Gear:
Headlamp with spare batteries
Water bottle
Sleeping bag — not included and essential during the colder winter months. Tents, mattresses and blankets are provided.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Toiletries, including wet wipes and lip balm
Insect repellent
Small bag to carry essentials during daily walks
Power bank if needed
Any sort of entertainment (books, e-readers, notebooks, card games, etc.)
Personal Medication
Bring your regular medication, pain relief, and basic first aid items.
Camera Equipment
In Algeria, all drones, binoculars and telescopes are prohibited.
can i pay with card in algeria?
Algeria operates entirely as a cash-based economy, meaning credit and debit cards are not accepted outside major hotels. While it is possible to withdraw cash at the airport in Djanet, we highly recommend that guests bring all the cash they will need for their trip as international ATMs are very scarce in Algeria in general.
do i need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Duneya Tours participants.
how should i dress during my trip?
Comfort, sun protection and layering are the most important considerations for desert travel. Days can be warm while nights may become very cold, particularly in winter.
We recommend lightweight, breathable clothing during the day, warmer layers for evenings and modest clothing that is respectful of local customs. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential.