In Salah

In Salah is an authentic oasis lost in the very heart of the Sahara Desert in Algeria, attracting travelers with its endless sandy landscapes and unique architecture. If you are planning a trip to In Salah, it is important to consider logistics in advance, as this remote city requires careful travel preparation. You can get here in various ways: by using the local airport or by undertaking a long but exciting drive through the desert.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the oasis is by air. The city is served by its own In Salah Airport (INZ), which connects the region with the country's major transport hubs. This allows you to avoid many hours of travel in the heat and arrive directly at your destination.

If direct flights are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighboring cities, although they are located at a significant distance. The nearest alternatives are the airports in the cities of Adrar (about 284 km) or Timimoun (317 km). However, in this case, an additional ground transfer to the final point will be required.

There is no direct railway connection to the oasis, as In Salah does not have its own station. The railway network in this part of the Sahara Desert is not developed, so trains are not a suitable option for this route.

The nearest major settlements, such as Adrar or El Golea, are too far away to be considered convenient transfer hubs for trains. Travelers are advised to opt for air travel or road transport.

Bus services connect In Salah with other regions of the country; however, the trip can be a true test of endurance. Intercity buses run along the main desert highways, but due to the vast distances, travel time is often counted in tens of hours.

Routes usually pass through major regional transport hubs, but it is best to check the exact schedule locally. This option is suitable only for tourists who have plenty of time and wish to reach the oasis on a budget while watching the changing desert landscapes from the window.

Traveling by car is an opportunity to witness the true Sahara, but the road requires experience in driving under desert conditions. One popular route runs from the city of Adrar: the distance is about 393 km, and the travel time will take approximately 6 hours on the highway.

You can also reach the oasis from the city of El Golea by covering 402 km in 5.5 hours. If you are departing from Timimoun, be prepared for a longer journey: a path of 635 km will require about 7.5–8 hours of continuous driving.

Visiting an oasis deep in the Sahara requires special preparation to ensure the journey is comfortable and safe. Here are some practical tips to help you plan your trip to In Salah.

1. Clothing and Climate. Choose light, loose clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen) that covers the body as much as possible to protect against the sun. Be sure to bring a head covering and sunglasses. Remember that temperatures in the desert can drop sharply at night, so a warm sweater or jacket is necessary.
2. Transport within the City. Public transport inside the oasis is poorly developed. For getting around, it is best to negotiate with local taxi drivers or hire a car with a driver who knows the area.
3. Finance and Cash. Cards are rarely accepted in remote regions. Always carry a sufficient supply of cash in Algerian dinars, preferably in small denominations for payments at markets and small shops.
4. Health and Water. The risk of dehydration is very high. Always carry a supply of bottled water and drink frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. Use sunscreen with a high SPF factor.
5. Language and Communication. The primary language of communication is Arabic; French is also widely spoken. English is not known everywhere, so it is useful to learn a few basic phrases in French or have an offline translator.
6. Local Etiquette. Algeria is a Muslim country with conservative traditions. Avoid revealing clothing, do not photograph locals (especially women) without their permission, and show respect for religious customs.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this desert city.