The Timimoun Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place from January 29 to February 4, 2026, in southern Algeria.
This unprecedented event will see hot air balloons flying over Timimoun and the Gourara region for the first time, offering an exceptional aerial experience in the heart of the Algerian Sahara.
This gathering is part of a sustainable Saharan tourism initiative, offering a gentle, silent, and environmentally friendly activity that is accessible to travelers, families, the diaspora, and international tourists.
Timimoun 2026: the first hot air balloon gathering in the Algerian Sahara
The hot air balloon gathering in Timimoun marks a major step in the development of Saharan tourism in Algeria.
Hot air balloons allow for a slow and contemplative discovery of the desert, far from traditional motorized tours.
From the sky, the red dunes of Gourara, the palm groves, and the traditional ksour appear from a spectacular angle, revealing the rich landscape and culture of this Saharan region.
Key information – Hot air balloon gathering in Timimoun
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Dates: January 29 to February 4, 2026
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Location: Timimoun,Adrar province
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Type of event: national and international hot air balloon gathering
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Main activities: hot air balloon flights, first flights, tourist activities
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Average flight duration: approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
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Target audience: general public, families, travelers, diaspora, foreign tourists
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Ideal time of year: winter (optimal weather and flying conditions)
An official and secure organization
The Timimoun Hot Air Balloon Rally is organized under the patronage of the Wali of the Wilaya of Timimoun, with the support of the Directorate of Youth and Sports of the Wilaya of Timimoun.
The event is coordinated by ALLACHE Djamel, the project leader.
This organization guarantees:
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strict compliance with aviation safety standards,
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close coordination with local authorities,
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logistics adapted to desert conditions,
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a sustainable vision of Saharan tourism.
Why Timimoun is ideal for hot air balloon flights
Timimoun offers particularly favorable conditions for hot air balloon flights in the Algerian Sahara:
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vast open desert expanses,
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gentle and regular terrain,
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stable winter weather,
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varied Saharan landscapes that are easy to see from the air.
The flight allows you to observe the foggaras, ancestral irrigation systems, the ksour of Gourara, and the palm grove of Timimoun.
First hot air balloon ride in Timimoun: a rare experience in Algeria
The hot air balloon ride is one of the highlights of the Timimoun Hot Air Balloon Festival.
Each flight lasts an average of 1 hour and 20 minutes, offering a complete immersion above the Algerian Sahara.
This experience is aimed at:
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travelers in search of unique experiences,
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couples and families,
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photographers and content creators,
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the Algerian diaspora wishing to discover the South in a different way.
What to do in Timimoun during the hot air balloon festival
Coming to Timimoun during the gathering also allows you to discover:
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the traditional ksours of Gourara,
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the foggaras and their ancestral functioning,
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the palm grove and its contrasting landscapes,
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local crafts and cultural traditions,
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Saharan evenings under a starry sky.
Many visitors extend their stay with Saharan tours and nights in bivouacs.
How to get to Timimoun
Access
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Domestic flights to Adrar,
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road transfers to Timimoun,
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organized tours from Algiers and other major cities.
Climate
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Sunny days and pleasant temperatures in winter,
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cool nights, typical of the Sahara.
Accommodation
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Traditional guesthouses,
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Saharan inns,
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immersive accommodations.
It is advisable to book in advance due to the expected crowds.
A defining event for Saharan tourism in Algeria
The Timimoun Hot Air Balloon Festival contributes to:
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diversify Algeria’s tourism offering,
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promoting the southern regions in a sustainable manner,
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attracting national and international customers,
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position Algeria as a destination for experiential and responsible tourism.
Timimoun 2026: the Algerian desert seen from the sky
From January 29 to February 4, 2026, Timimoun will establish itself as a must-see destination for Saharan tourism in Algeria.
Between hot air balloon flights, cultural immersion, and exceptional landscapes, the Algerian Sahara can be discovered here from a unique perspective: seen from the sky.
