× title-placeholder message-placeholder 🛖 TakeYourBackpack.com find your next backpacking destination covering all countries in the world extensive info per country personal stories and photos learn how to backpack like a pro Skip to main content home advisor destinations Africa Asia Europe North America South America Oceania All countries Where to go? inspiration Photos & stories World cities Famous hikes National parks Best beaches Famous festivals World wonders UNESCO sites All highlights planning search bucketlist Algeria 🇩🇿 Assekrem Hike the Assekrem, Algeria. Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Timgad International Music Festival Explore Hoggar Mountains Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Algeria | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Assekrem The Assekrem hike in Algeria is a mixed bag that’s definitely worth your time if you’re up for an adventure. Stretching about 18 kilometers round trip, it’s not a walk in the park, with some steep sections that can leave you huffing and puffing, especially in the heat. But the payoff? Stunning views of the Hoggar Mountains and a chance to catch an unforgettable sunrise at the summit. Getting to the trailhead can be a bit of a hassle; public transport options are limited, and you might find yourself negotiating a ride from Tamanrasset. Compared to other hikes in Algeria, like the more popular Tassili n’Ajjer, Assekrem offers a more rugged, less-traveled experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. If you’re looking for solitude and breathtaking scenery, it’s a solid choice, just be prepared for some logistical hurdles. Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Algeria Travel Guide . Best time to go: March – May, September – November Duration: 3 days Distance: 12 kilometers Total ascent: 1,200 meters Get your Algeria Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Assekrem Algeria Grab your own Travelguide for only Sunrise at the Hermitage of Charles de Foucauld — Climbing the last ridge before dawn to watch light pour over the chapel is the classic Assekrem moment. It’s not just a photo-op: the tiny stone hermitage, its terraces and the rising sun combine spiritual quiet with jaw-dropping color on the surrounding peaks. 360° Panorama from the Plateau Rim — The edge of Assekrem drops away into an endless Sahara: dunes, mesas and distant black volcanic domes. That “island in a desert” feeling—vast scale, total silence, and the sense you can see forever—is what sets this view apart from ordinary mountain overlooks. Twisted Volcanic Domes and Sculpted Rock — The Hoggar’s dark, rounded inselbergs and wind-carved faces are surreal up close. Walking between them feels more like exploring a stone cathedral than a typical trail; the geology here is sculptural, dramatic and photogenic at every angle. Tuareg Culture and the Hermit’s Teahouse — Local Tuareg guides and caretakers keep the site alive: expect mint tea, stories about the desert and a small, lived-in chapel rather than a tourist monument. That human layer—nomad hospitality plus the legacy of Charles de Foucauld—gives the hike real cultural weight. Starlit Nights and Desert Wildlife — At 2,700+ meters with zero light pollution, the Milky Way pops like nowhere else; camping here is a show in itself. On the trails you might also spot aoudad (barbary sheep), desert foxes or wheeling raptors—subtle encounters that remind you this is a living, wild place, not just scenery. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town unique site national park hike beach festival show all 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Assekrem Hiking ’Assekrem’ is an adventure you won’t forget, but timing is key. The best months to hit the trail are from October to April. During this window, temperatures are a lot more forgiving—think highs around 20°C (68°F) during the day and lows dropping to about 5°C (41°F) at night. In the summer, you’re looking at scorching daytime temps that can soar past 40°C (104°F), which is pretty brutal. Not exactly ideal for a hike, right? Plus, the heat can drain your energy faster than you can say “where’s the nearest shade?” Another thing to keep in mind is the wind. It can whip up pretty strong in the winter months, so layering is your friend. You want to be prepared for those chilly evenings and windy summits without lugging around a ton of gear. Pro-tip: Bring a good pair of sunglasses and a hat—those desert sun rays can be relentless, even in cooler months. And don’t forget to pack plenty of water; hydration is key out there! JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Assekrem If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Algeria Best quality hotels in Algeria 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Assekrem Total Distance: The Assekrem trail spans approximately 18 kilometers (about 11 miles) one way, making for a round trip of around 36 kilometers (22 miles) if you decide to hike back. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 8 to 12 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views or take breaks. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate to challenging. The terrain can be rocky and steep in sections, so a decent level of fitness is recommended. Starting Point: The trail begins near the village of Imlil, which is accessible from the city … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Assekrem trail spans approximately 18 kilometers (about 11 miles) one way, making for a round trip of around 36 kilometers (22 miles) if you decide to hike back. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 8 to 12 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views or take breaks. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate to challenging. The terrain can be rocky and steep in sections, so a decent level of fitness is recommended. Starting Point: The trail begins near the village of Imlil, which is accessible from the city of Tamanrasset. Public Transport: You can catch a bus or shared taxi from Tamanrasset to Imlil. It’s a short ride, but be prepared for some bumpy roads. Major Landmarks Along the Route: Assekrem Plateau: This is the main highlight, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Erg Admer Dunes: These stunning sand dunes provide a stark contrast to the rocky terrain and are a great spot for photos. Chapelle de l’Assekrem: A small chapel built by a French monk, this is a peaceful stop along the way. Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of rocky paths, sandy stretches, and some steep ascents. Scenery ranges from rugged mountains to sweeping desert vistas, with stunning sunsets if you time your hike right. Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: Vegetation: You’ll see sparse desert plants, including some hardy shrubs and occasional trees, especially near the water sources. Wildlife: Keep an eye out for ibex and various birds, particularly eagles soaring overhead. Pack plenty of water, sunblock, and snacks. The sun can be intense, so start early to avoid the heat. Enjoy the hike; it’s a stunning adventure! ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Algeria Travel Guide Discover the best Algeria has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Algeria 166 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 79 must-see highlights ✅ 21-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore all what Algeria has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Algiers, Oran, Constantine , see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Djanet, Timimoun, In Salah , see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Sahara Desert, Kasbah of Algiers, Ancient ruins of Djemila, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : Ahaggar, Tassili n’Ajjer, Djurdjura , see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Hoggar Mountains, Djebel Chelia, Djurdjura Mountains, see all 🏖️ Beaches        Compare the top best beaches : Plage de Tipaza, Plage Clovis, Plage de Sidi Fredj, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : International of the Sahara, DimaJazz, Timgad International Music , see all Explore Algeria ✈️ Ready to Go? Assekrem FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Algeria The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Algeria Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Assekrem? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Algeria Best quality hotels in Algeria What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Algeria? Algeria’s climate can be a bit of a rollercoaster, so pack with variety in mind. In the north, expect Mediterranean vibes—hot, dry summers and rainy winters. But if you’re heading south to the Sahara, brace for extreme heat during the day and surprisingly chilly nights. Terrain-wise, you’ll find everything from beaches to mountains, so sturdy footwear is a must. Culturally, modest dress is key, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Think long sleeves and pants or skirts that cover the knees. Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Algeria. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts Assekrem’s vibe is like stepping into a dream—vast, otherworldly landscapes that make you feel tiny. Don’t miss the sunrise; it’s a jaw-dropper. Just a heads-up: the altitude can hit you hard, so take it easy on the hikes. And if you can, chat with the locals; their stories add a whole new layer to the experience. Trust me, you’ll leave with a piece of the desert in your heart. 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 19 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript