NORTH AFRICA…MAURITANIA, TUNISIA, AND ALGERIA
October 04 - October 30, 2024
Led by Lecturer, Guide & Historian, Mohamed Halouani
Mauritania, once the seat of the Almoravid movement that spread Islam throughout North Africa, boasts many natural wonders and ancient cities. Highlights include bustling markets, fascinating “ksours” (fortified villages), isolated nomadic camps, medieval Berber trading centers, the mystical Guelb Errichat (Africa’s “Eye”), beautiful green oases, and impressive Neolithic rock cave paintings.
Few countries on earth match the historical, cultural, and natural splendor of Tunisia. Begin in the capital city of Tunis with its excellent museums, wondrous medina (ancient city), and fascinating souqs (markets). Explore ancient Carthage, one of the most important cities in the ancient Roman Empire and Dougga, the most well preserved archaeological site in Tunisia. Other important historical sites include Sousse, Oudna, Kerkouane, and the sacred Islamic site of Kairouan.
Algeria is a vast country of breathtaking scenery, well-preserved Roman ruins, pre-historic cave paintings, impressive museums, and a strong Berber culture. This segment of the journey will take you from the sweeping shores of the Mediterranean, to the green majestic mountains, through the vast Sahara Desert, and into the palm-fringed oases. Explore the Roman ruins of Timgad, the former Roman port of Caesarea, the oasis town of Bou Saada, the Kasbah of Algiers, and the unique fortified town of Ghardaia and its Mozabite villages. No tour of Algeria would be complete without a visit to the dramatic city of Constantine, the “city of gorges and bridges.”
So come and join us on this amazing journey spanning three countries, or select the segments that are most appealing to you. For those who would like to expand their visit of Algeria, or are only doing the Algeria segment of the trip, consider adding the extension to Tlemcen, Timimoun, and Béni Abbès, and explore oasis, ksours, palaces, ancient cities, sand dunes, and much more in the far west and the desert of Algeria.
Can be combined with Algeria Extension (October 30- November 04, 2024)
Tour cost (Land ONLY):
Per person sharing in double occupancy
Mauritania: $2,995.00
Single Supplement: $295.00
Tunisia: $2,995.00
Single Supplement: $395.00
Algeria: $5,995.00
Single Supplement: $995.00
Price based on group size minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 12 participants
Trip Grade: II Lodging Level: ***-****
Tour Includes
Airport/Hotel airport transfers.
Accommodations in Superior (4*) (except some 2-3* hotels in parts of Mauritania & Algeria).
Transportation by air-conditioned car/van and 4-wheel drive vehicles.
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner).
Bottled mineral water on vehicles during touring.
All tours as per itinerary including entrance fees.
Local taxes and service charges on included items.
Escort of lecturer in Algeria (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Gratuities to guide, drivers, and porters (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Tour Does Not Include
International airfare USA- Nouakchott and Algiers- USA and any flights between countries.
Visa fees: Free on arrival - subject to change.
Your passport must not include any Israeli stamp.
Mauritania (obtainable on arrival for $65).
Tunisian is currently gratis for US citizens.
Meals not listed or beverages with meals.
Items of a personal nature (camera fees, laundry, excess luggage, etc.).
Transfers if not arriving/departing on tour dates.
Dayroom/overnights necessitated by changes in airline schedules or misconnections.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Gratuity to your tour manager (optional).
Travel protection insurance (Highly recommended).
Trip Grade:
II Active - Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable but busy schedule, and some very long rides. A few times you may be delayed by the security personnel at some check points and this necessitates a tolerant and patient attitude.
Lodging Level:
***Superior: Some hotels with additional amenities, refined service, and comfort level acceptable to western standards. (3 or 4 stars.
****Some hotels will be basic, especially in Mauritania and the desert of Algeria, but all will have private toilet/shower facilities.
Notes: M’Zab Guesthouse is more basic, but we will be delighted in its traditional charm and beauty. The rooms have private ensuite toilet and showers.
