When to visit the Algerian Sahara?
The season runs from October to April. Here is how it changes month by month, and the festivals not to miss.
October to April
This is the Sahara season: mild sunny days, cool nights and very starry skies. It is also when visa on arrival applies to tours run by a licensed agency.
Month by month
October and November: still warm by day, pleasant nights. Ideal for 4×4 tours and the first treks.
December to February: the best time for trekking. Nights can drop close to 0 °C on the plateaus, so bring a warm sleeping bag.
March and April: the heat returns and sandstorms become more frequent. Desert flowers appear after rain.
Festivals worth knowing
The Sebeïba of Djanet, Tuareg songs and dances on UNESCO’s heritage list, takes place at Ashura. The Ahellil of the Gourara, around Timimoun, is also UNESCO-listed. Their dates follow the Hijri calendar and change every year, so ask your agency.
Summer: best avoided
From May to September temperatures often exceed 40 °C. Most agencies stop deep-desert tours.