Assekrem
Southern Algeria Region
Assekrem is a renowned plateau located in the Hoggar Mountains, a vast highland region in the central Sahara of southern Algeria. It is famous for the hermitage built by Charles de Foucauld in 1911, which remains inhabited by a small community of Catholic monks. The Hoggar Mountains themselves are characterized by rugged volcanic peaks and ancient metamorphic rock formations, rising to elevations over 2,900 meters at Mount Tahat nearby. The area offers unique landscapes with dramatic rocky outcrops and vast desert views, attracting adventurous visitors and pilgrims alike. Its climate features hot summers and cold winters with freezing nighttime temperatures, supporting a distinctive biodiversity including rare desert flora and fauna. The plateau's remote location and spiritual heritage make it a unique cultural and natural destination within the Sahara.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their trip during cooler months to avoid extreme heat and freezing night temperatures. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended due to the remote location and challenging terrain. The hermitage at Assekrem can be visited, but respecting the monks' privacy is important. Bringing adequate water, sun protection, and warm clothing for nights is advised. Due to limited facilities, visitors should prepare accordingly and consider local guides for a safe experience.
Interesting facts
- •Charles de Foucauld's hermitage on Assekrem is still inhabited by Catholic monks.
- •The Hoggar Mountains are composed primarily of 2 billion-year-old metamorphic rock with volcanic features shaped by erosion.
- •Assekrem offers some of the clearest night skies for stargazing due to its high elevation and desert location.
- •The Hoggar Mountains are home to rare desert wildlife including the Saharan subspecies of the Barbary sheep and Dorcas gazelle.
- •The area was once part of an ancient river system during the African humid period, linked to the Tamanrasset River.
History
The Hoggar Mountains have been inhabited since prehistoric times, evidenced by rock paintings dating back to 6000 BC.
The region is traditionally the land of the Kel Ahaggar Tuareg people.
In 1911, Charles de Foucauld established a hermitage on the Assekrem plateau, which remains a spiritual site with a small monastic presence.
During the 1960s, France conducted underground atomic tests in the Hoggar Mountains, marking a significant historical event in the area.
Place Guide
Hermitage of Charles de Foucauld1911
A small religious retreat established in 1911 by Charles de Foucauld, still inhabited by Catholic monks, offering insight into spiritual life in the Sahara.
Assekrem Plateau
A high-altitude desert plateau known for its striking volcanic rock formations and breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
