Kerzaz

Kerzaz lies in southwestern Algeria, tucked away within the Saoura valley along the edge of the Grand Erg Occidental. This oasis town is a prime example of traditional Saharan life, where dense palm groves provide a stark contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. The local community relies heavily on date cultivation, a practice that has sustained the region for centuries. Visitors are drawn to the ancient ksar, a fortified village built from mudbrick that reflects the region's rich architectural heritage. Exploring its narrow, winding streets provides a glimpse into historical desert living. The surrounding dunes offer spectacular opportunities for trekking, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The nearby Saoura riverbed occasionally flows during rare rains. Getting to Kerzaz typically involves a drive south from Béchar along the N6 highway, offering scenic views of the desert. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to March, avoiding the intense summer heat. The town is also a recognized center of Sufism, housing the Zawiya of Sidi Ahmed Ben Moussa.

Nearby cities

Béni Abbès

Béni Abbès, the 'white oasis', is located in the Saoura Valley and offers a view of sand dunes.

Kinigi

This base camp for tourists is located right next to the Volcanoes National Park and benefits massively from ecotourism.

Kora

A small town in the northwestern mountains, where local agriculture benefits from fertile volcanic soil.

Bigogwe

Famous for extensive, lush pastures where traditional livestock farming is practiced according to centuries-old patterns.

Musanze

The main city in the north is the gateway to the famous mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

Nyabihu

A cool mountain town on the edge of the volcanic chain, where the country's best dairy products are made.

Rutshuru

Rutshuru is located in a fertile volcanic region north of Goma in North Kivu.

Mukamira

A bustling trading town on the main axis between Musanze and Lake Kivu, surrounded by green volcanic slopes.

Kisoro

Kisoro is a significant city in Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and economic importance in the region.

Lake Mutanda

A picturesque freshwater lake framed by the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, offering absolute tranquility.

Rwaza

An important historical place in the north, looking back on a long mission history and the construction of old churches.

Goma

Goma is the capital of North Kivu Province, located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, near the Nyiragongo volcano.

History & landmarks

Gisenyi Grand Mosque

A striking Islamic place of worship in Rubavu (Gisenyi) near the Congolese border, representing Rwanda's growing Muslim community.

Nature

Mukungwa River

An important river that originates from Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo.

Lake Burera

A picturesque lake near the Virunga volcanoes.

More places

Mount Bisoke

An active volcano near the border, known for its crater lake.

Mount Mikeno

An extinct volcano in the Virunga Mountains.

Virunga Volcanoes

A chain of eight volcanoes on the border between Rwanda, Uganda, and the DR Congo.

Karisimbi Slopes

The forested and volcanic slopes of Mount Karisimbi.

Virunga Mountains

A chain of volcanoes on the border between Rwanda, Uganda, and the DR Congo.

Mount Karisimbi

The highest volcano in the Virunga Mountains.

Birunga Mountains

Alternative name for the volcanic mountain range in northwest Rwanda.

Mount Sabyinyo

An old, rugged volcano whose name means 'Old man's teeth'.