
Assekrem
Algeria, africa
N/A
2,708 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits! We're heading to Assekrem, a seriously epic plateau way up in the Hoggar Mountains of southern Algeria. We're talking almost 9,000 feet above sea level in Tamanrasset Province!
The route to the top, known locally as Route de l'Assekrem, is a wild gravel track, and "bumpy" is an understatement. You'll definitely need a 4x4 and some serious driving skills for this one. Think steep inclines and watch out for those sneaky patches of loose gravel that can appear out of nowhere, especially after it rains. Pack plenty of water, food, and gear—you're out in the middle of nowhere!
Timing is key: October or November are your best bets. Summer is scorching, and winter nights get seriously cold. Up top, you'll find a communication tower and a mountain refuge, but the real highlight is the hermitage of Charles de Foucauld, built way back in 1910 and still home to a few monks. Oh, and pro tip: hire a local guide. It's not just for safety; getting lost in this desert can be a fatal mistake.
Where is it?
Assekrem is located in Algeria (africa). Coordinates: 28.3823, 0.9218
Road Details
- Country
- Algeria
- Continent
- africa
- Max Elevation
- 2,708 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 28.3823, 0.9218
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