Assekrem

Assekrem is a high mountain plateau at an elevation of 2.708m (8,884ft) above the sea level, located in the Tamanrasset Province of southern Algeria.

Assekrem

Located in the Hoggar Mountains, this infamous gravel road to the summit is bumped. It’s called Route de l'Assekrem. Make sure you get your vehicle and yourself well-prepared before driving this road. The road is difficult to navigate. 4wd vehicle required. The area typically experiences hot summers, with a cold winter climate. It’s recommended to go there in October or November. In the summer is just too hot and December to February it can get quite chilly, especially at night.

Expect a trail pretty steep. After rain, even a single rainfall, conditions of the road can be challenging. Watch out for sudden loose-gravel breaks. Travelers are therefore advised to take enough food, water and adequate equipment.  The summit hosts a communication tower and a mountain refuge. The hermitage of Charles de Foucauld, which continues to be inhabited by a few monks, built in 1910, is also at the top. You will need a local guide (not just for security reasons but above all because the desert can be deadly if you get lost).
Pic: Khaled Ziani