How to get to Adrar

Planning to travel to Adrar, you are heading to a colourful oasis city located in the heart of the desert in southwestern Algeria. This region is famous for its distinctive red clay architecture and serves as an important trade hub linking various parts of the Sahara. Travelers exploring how to get to Adrar face a choice between a quick flight and a long but scenic journey by car or bus.

Traveling by plane is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Adrar. The city is served by its own Touat-Cheikh Sidi Mohamed Belkebir Airport (IATA code: AZR), located just a few kilometres from the central part of the oasis. This saves tourists from having to make long journeys across the desert from other regions.

Regular air service connects this region with major transport hubs in northern Algeria. Most often, travelers choose direct flights from the country's capital or from the city of Oran. The flight takes an average of about 2–3 hours, offering breathtaking views of the endless Sahara sands from the window.

Upon arrival, passengers can easily reach the city using local taxi services, which usually wait outside the terminal exit. The airport is quite compact and calm, so completing all necessary formalities and collecting luggage rarely takes much time.

It is impossible to get to Adrar exclusively by train, as the country's railway network does not extend that deep into the Sahara sands. There are no railway stations in the city or its surroundings, so tourists should consider other transport options for the final leg of the journey.

The nearest point reachable by rail is the city of Bechar, located in the northwest, but a long journey by bus or taxi awaits from there. Rail travel is better planned only for moving between cities in northern Algeria, while for a trip to this desert oasis, it is better to choose a plane or car.

A bus trip is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the desert atmosphere and see the endless sands on the way to Adrar. It is most convenient to get there from the neighbouring "red oasis" of Timimoun: the distance between the cities is only about 200 kilometres, which transport covers in an average of 3 hours.

Longer routes connect the city with other key points of the Sahara. The journey from In Salah, covering about 380 kilometres, will take approximately 5–6 hours, allowing passengers to enjoy the rugged landscapes outside the window. Scheduled services also run regularly from El Golea, located 420 kilometres to the northeast; the road from there usually lasts about 6–7 hours.

A self-drive trip across the vastness of the Sahara turns a standard transfer into a memorable experience, allowing you to enjoy views of dunes and rocky plateaus at your own pace. The most comfortable and shortest route runs from colourful Timimoun: the distance of 200 kilometres on quality asphalt can be covered in just 2.5–3 hours. Travelers heading from the direction of In Salah face a drive of about 380 kilometres, which usually takes 5–6 hours on the road.

The highway from El Golea, connecting the northern regions with the south, is also in demand. It is worth considering that this is a longer route: the distance to Adrar is about 580 kilometres, so the trip will take significantly more time. If you are not renting a car, a convenient alternative will be the collective taxis (shared taxis) popular in Algeria, where the fare is shared among all passengers and remains very affordable thanks to low fuel prices in the country.

A trip to Adrar is an immersion into the unique atmosphere of the Sahara, requiring special preparation. To ensure your trip to this colourful desert oasis in Algeria is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared a list of important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate. Given the desert climate, opt for loose clothing made of natural breathable fabrics (cotton, linen). It is important to respect the local dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. Be sure to bring a head covering, high-quality sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen, and for cool evenings (especially in winter), a warm sweater or windbreaker will be useful.
2. Transport. It is most convenient to move around the city by taxi, as walking can be tiring due to the heat and distances. Taxis are inexpensive, but cars often lack meters, so it is recommended to agree on a fixed price with the driver before boarding.
3. Finances. The main means of payment is the Algerian Dinar. Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted extremely rarely, mostly only in large hotels or airline offices. It is best to always carry a sufficient supply of cash. You can exchange currency (Euros or Dollars) at banks or official exchange bureaus.
4. Health and Hygiene. In dry air and high temperatures, the risk of dehydration is very high. Drink plenty of water, but use only bottled water with a sealed cap; drinking tap water is not recommended. Pack a small first-aid kit with essential medicines, as finding a 24-hour pharmacy can be a problem.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Arabic, and French is also widely spoken. English is not understood everywhere, so download an offline translator on your smartphone or learn a few basic phrases of greeting and gratitude in Arabic or French.
6. Local Etiquette. Adrar is a city with conservative traditions. Behave modestly and avoid public displays of affection. Always ask for permission before photographing locals (especially women) or private property. It is customary to greet people and pass money or food with the right hand.
7. What to Avoid. Do not venture into the desert outside the city alone without an experienced guide—it is easy to lose your bearings in the sands. Also, try not to plan active walks during the midday hours (from 12:00 to 16:00), when solar activity peaks.
8. Opening Hours. Remember the midday break: during the hottest time of the day, many shops, markets, and institutions close for a break. Life in the city revives closer to the evening when the heat subsides, so plan shopping and walks for the morning or evening hours.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on exploring the red clay architecture and majestic landscapes. Adrar is a hospitable city that generously rewards prepared and respectful travelers with vivid impressions.