Terjit Oasis

Terjit sits in a narrow gorge in the Adrar south of Atar, where two springs come out of the rock, one warm and one cold, and feed a dense stand of date palms that fills the whole floor of the cleft. Water runs between the trunks and the cliff walls close overhead. Tents and mats are set up under the palms for visitors. It is the most immediately striking oasis in the country.

What you actually see

• The two springs - one warm and one cold, feeding the same palm grove.
• The gorge - cliff walls closing in over the floor of the oasis.
• The palm stand - dates filling the whole width of the cleft.
• The running water - streams between the trunks through the grove.

When to go

November to February is the cool season and the practical window. Summer heat in the Adrar is extreme. Rare rain can flood the gorge.

Honest expectations

Facilities are mats and tents rather than accommodation in any usual sense. The site charges an entry fee and can be busy in the winter season. The track in needs high clearance.

Nearby

Atar is north, and Chinguetti is northeast.