In Amenas Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

In Amenas is a working town with very few formal attractions; most visitors are on business, and any leisure time centres on the desert.

• Saharan landscapes — Gravel plains, rocky ridges and dunes surround the town and are striking at sunrise and sunset.
• Night skies — The dry air and lack of light pollution make for exceptional stargazing.
• Tuareg culture — Look out for traditional silver jewellery, leatherwork and the ritual of sweet green tea.
• Local market — A small market for everyday goods, dates and regional produce.
• Illizi — The provincial capital to the south-west, gateway to the northern Tassili n’Ajjer.
• Tassili n’Ajjer — The UNESCO-listed plateau of rock art and sandstone forests, reached only by long, organised journeys.

In Amenas has an extremely dry desert climate. Summers are scorching, with daytime temperatures regularly above 40°C, while winters bring warm, sunny days and cold nights. Rain is rare, but sand-laden winds can blow, especially in spring.

For any time outdoors, the most comfortable months are November to March. Business travel continues year round; in summer, avoid exertion in the middle of the day and carry plenty of water at all times.

In Amenas Airport, also called Zarzaitine, lies close to the town and serves mainly domestic flights and the energy sector. There is no rail link or public transport network of the kind found in larger cities.

Most travellers are collected by vehicles arranged by their employer or host. Where taxis are available, agree the fare in advance. Movement around industrial sites is controlled, so follow the instructions of your host organisation on arrival.

Accommodation in In Amenas is limited and largely geared to industry workers. Arrange your stay before you travel.

• Company bases — Secure accommodation provided by employers; the usual option for business visitors.
• Town centre — A small number of modest hotels close to shops and services.
• Illizi — The provincial capital, a better base for travellers heading towards the Tassili n’Ajjer.

• Safety: Check your government’s latest travel advice before travelling to this border region, and follow your host’s security guidance.
• Money: Bring Algerian dinars in cash; card payments and cash machines are very limited.
• Getting around: Travel only with arranged transport and experienced local guides; desert trips are usually organised through licensed agencies.
• Etiquette: Dress modestly and always ask before photographing people or installations.
• Health: Carry water, wear sun protection and bring warm layers for cold desert nights.