Sefar: The forgotten city etched in stone

Join Duneya Tours for a trek in the forgotten city of Sefar, in Djanet, Algeria.

Sefar is one of the world’s most significant prehistoric sites. Known for its vast collection of rock art, Sefar is often called the "Louvre of the Desert" for its intricate carvings and paintings that date back thousands of years. These ancient artworks depict life as it once was, featuring animals, human figures, and mysterious symbols. As part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, Sefar offers a glimpse into the life and spiritual world of early human civilizations. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara Desert, Sefar remains a destination of both historical and mystical allure, attracting adventurers, historians, and those in search of profound cultural discovery.

Sefar

  • Join Duneya Tours for a trek in the forgotten city of Sefar, in Djanet, Algeria.

    A journey on foot

    For those who thrive on physical challenges, Sefar offers a unique trek through its breathtaking landscapes. This destination is only accessible on foot, immersing you in the ancient rock art and towering formations of Tassili n'Ajjer Plateau. The journey rewards active travelers with a deeper connection to the land, making each step part of the experience. It’s a destination where the thrill lies not only in the destination but in the journey itself.

  • Join Duneya Tours for a trek in the forgotten city of Sefar, in Djanet, Algeria.

    Troglodyte city

    Sefar is not just known for its art but also for its unique geological formations and troglodyte dwellings. The region is dotted with natural rock shelters and caves where ancient people lived, often carved directly into the massive sandstone cliffs. These formations, shaped by centuries of erosion, create a surreal landscape of towering rock arches and labyrinthine passages, giving the impression of an ancient city lost in time.

  • Join Duneya Tours for a trek in the forgotten city of Sefar, in Djanet, Algeria.

    Prehistoric Art

    Sefar is home to one of the largest collections of ancient rock art, with thousands of engravings and paintings that are over 12,000 years old. These works, created by early desert dwellers, depict everything from wildlife to spiritual figures, offering rare insights into human history. Known as the "Louvre of the Desert," Sefar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving these invaluable artifacts that connect us to the prehistoric past.

book a tour

Tours to Sefar are available by request only, offering an exclusive and personalized experience in this ancient and mystical landscape. Due to the remote and protected nature of Sefar, we ensure that each journey is tailored to small groups who are seeking a deeper connection with its prehistoric history and unique environment.

FAQs

  • Exploring Sefar is an immersive experience that typically requires a commitment of 7 to 15 days, allowing travellers to fully absorb its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This duration provides ample time to trek through the Tassili N'ajjer Plateau, delve into the fascinating history of the area, and discover its prehistoric art and mystical significance

  • Private tour pricing varies based on group size, travel dates, and chosen destinations. Each private tour is fully customizable to meet the unique preferences and needs of our guests. To provide the most accurate pricing, we encourage interested travellers to reach out for personalized quotes tailored to their specific requirements.

  • - Assistance with obtaining a tourist visa including fees.

    - Airport pickup and drop-off by the Duneya Tours team.

    - A guide that speaks English, French, German, Swiss German, Arabic and/or Spanish.

    - Breakfast, lunch, an afternoon snack, and dinner for the duration of your stay.

    - Traditional Tuareg tea, coffee, water and soft drinks throughout the trip.

    - Entrance fees for national parks and protected areas.

    - A dedicated cook for the duration of the trip.

    - All necessary camping equipment. 

  • - Airfare.

    - Travel insurance for coverage during the trip.

    - Personal expenses, e.g. souvenirs etc.

    - Tips.

    - Sleeping bags.

  • An essential part of the Djanet experience is camping beneath the vast desert sky, allowing you to connect deeply with nature. While the accommodations are simple, they enhance the authenticity of the adventure. You can sleep on comfortable mats in your tent or directly under the open sky, surrounded by the peaceful quiet of the Sahara. We encourage to trade five star for the desert sky's thousand stars, something far more special than any luxury could provide.

more questions?

Check out our FAQ.

Join Duneya Tours for a trek in the forgotten city of Sefar, in Djanet, Algeria.

7 day trek program

7 day trek program

arrival in djanet

After arriving on a night flight at Tiska Djanet Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and then transferred to the base of the plateau for our first campsite, where our team of muleteers awaits.

day 1

Early morning departure to the Tassili plateau. We ascend the Akba Tafilalet via a rocky path, leading us to the stunning scenery of Tamrit. In the afternoon, we explore the cave paintings at Tin Zoumaïtec and stroll through the millennia-old cypress valley of Tamrit. Overnight camping.

day 2

We head toward the Tin Aboteka paintings, passing through Tetras n'Alies with its striking peaks. By late afternoon, we arrive at Sefar and set up camp.

day 3

The morning is dedicated to exploring the white Sefar, an ancient "city" with its historic "streets." In the afternoon, we continue our exploration of the black Sefar, moving toward Tighessouten. Overnight camping.

day 4

We traverse the Alanedoumene plateau to reach the Rayay canyon, known for its ancient cypress trees, cave paintings, and breathtaking landscapes. Overnight camping at Rayay.

day 5

Heading south along a rocky plateau, we reach the In Aouarhed canyon, where we discover new paintings. By day's end, we arrive at the renowned Djabaren site, rich with thousands of paintings from various periods.

day 6

We dedicate the morning to exploring Djabaren before reluctantly departing via the rocky pass of Akba Aroum to meet our 4x4 vehicles for a short transfer back to Djanet. Overnight camping.

day 7

If flight schedules allow, we will take a detour to visit "the Crying Cow" before heading to Djanet Airport.

Disclaimer

Please note that all tour itineraries are subject to change due to unforeseeable factors such as weather conditions, flight delays, or other circumstances beyond our control. While we strive to adhere to the planned schedule, safety and the overall experience of our guests are our top priorities. Therefore, adjustments to the itinerary may be made without prior notice to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.