Tafadek Hot Spring

Tafadek is a hot spring in the western Aïr where water comes out of the rock at around forty degrees, collected in basins where people bathe, and it has a long reputation locally for treating skin and joint complaints, which brings visitors from across the region. Palms and tamarisk grow around the outflow in otherwise bare ground. It lies inside the Aïr and Ténéré World Heritage property. The spring is one of very few permanent water sources in this part of the Aïr, which is why the track to it is used year round.

What you actually see

• The hot water - the spring emerging at around forty degrees.
• The bathing basins - the pools the outflow is collected in.
• The green fringe - palms and tamarisk around the water in bare desert.
• The local reputation - long use for skin and joint complaints.

When to go

November to February is the cool season and most comfortable for bathing. Summer heat makes the hot water unpleasant. The spring runs year round.

Honest expectations

Facilities are basic and bathing arrangements are separate and locally governed. Access needs a guide, permit and four wheel drive from Agadez. There is no accommodation at the spring.

Nearby

Dabous is south, and Iférouane is northeast.