Mount Tahat, Volcanic mountain in Tamanrasset Province, Algeria
Mount Tahat rises to 2918 meters (9573 feet) as the highest summit in Algeria, located within the Hoggar Mountains of the Sahara. Black volcanic rock covers the upper sections, while the base is formed from pink granite.
The first documented ascent occurred in 1931 and marked an important moment in the exploration of Algerian mountain regions. Earlier crossings of the area by caravans left no written records of summit attempts.
Local guides from nearby settlements know ancient routes that wind between rock formations and dry riverbeds. These paths were used for centuries by nomadic groups moving through the central Sahara.
Expeditions typically start from the city of Tamanrasset, located 56 kilometers (35 miles) to the south, and require adequate supplies for demanding conditions. The best visiting period falls between November and March when temperatures are more moderate.
Clearly visible layers alternate basalt flows and volcanic necks, documenting millions of years of geological activity. The color contrasts between black volcanic rock and pink granite are especially striking when the sun is low.
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