Adrar des Ifoghas
A granite massif in Mali's far northeast, eroded into domes and boulder fields.
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The Adrar des Ifoghas is a low granite massif covering a large area of Mali's far northeast and extending into Algeria, weathered over an immense span into rounded domes, tors and fields of boulders separated by sandy valleys, with pools that hold water long after the rains. It is Tuareg country, grazed rather than settled, and rock engravings and paintings of cattle and hunters occur through the valleys.
What you actually see
- The granite domes - rounded tors and boulder fields across the massif.
- The gueltas - the rock pools that hold water into the dry season.
- The rock art - engravings and paintings of cattle and hunters in the valleys.
- The Tuareg country - grazing land rather than settled ground.
When to go
November to February is the cool season and the only practical window. March to May is extremely hot. The rains are brief and fall around August.
Honest expectations
This is remote desert country with no infrastructure, fuel or water supply; travel requires a proper expedition with local guides. Rock art sites are unmarked. Reaching the region at all requires arrangements made well in advance.
Nearby
Essouk-Tadmakka is nearby, and Kidal is at the massif's edge.
What to pack for Adrar des Ifoghas
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.