Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert covers parts of Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Sudan, and Tunisia, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea. Contrary to the image of endless dunes, only about 25 percent of the Sahara consists of sand seas called 'ergs'. The rest includes gravel plains (regs), rocky plateaus (hamadas), volcanic mountains, and dry river valleys called wadis. The desert's highest peak, Mount Koussi in Chad, rises 3,415 meters, while the Tanezrouft Basin in Algeria ranks among the hottest places on Earth.

Climatic patterns drive extreme temperature swings, with daytime heat surpassing 45 °C and nighttime temperatures dropping near freezing. Trade winds known as the harmattan transport dust across the Atlantic, fertilizing soils in the Amazon rainforest. Over thousands of years, the Sahara has alternated between lush and arid periods as Earth's orbit shifts monsoonal rainfall. Cave paintings and Neolithic artifacts depict giraffes, hippos, and cattle, evidence of wetter eras when lakes and grasslands supported nomadic societies.

Despite aridity, the Sahara hosts unique ecosystems around oases, mountain refuges, and seasonal wetlands. Date palms shade water wells, supporting crops such as millet, wheat, and vegetables. Wildlife includes fennec foxes, addax antelope, dorcas gazelles, desert hedgehogs, and migratory birds resting along the East Atlantic Flyway. Conservationists protect rare species, while camel caravans and Tuareg herders continue trans-Saharan trade traditions that carry salt, dates, and handicrafts between markets.

Modern infrastructure projects intersect with ancient landscapes. Solar and wind farms in Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia tap abundant sunshine, and scientists study the desert's potential for hydrogen production. At the same time, groundwater extraction for agriculture and cities must balance demand with limited recharge. Initiatives such as the African Union's Great Green Wall aim to restore degraded lands by planting drought-resistant trees across the Sahel, reducing dust storms and supporting livelihoods.

Tourism focuses on starry night skies, dune treks, and cultural heritage. Travelers ride camels over Erg Chebbi in Morocco, explore the sandstone arches of Tassili n'Ajjer National Park in Algeria, and wander ancient oasis towns like Siwa in Egypt. Film crews shoot science-fiction landscapes among Tunisia's salt flats. Guides teach visitors about survival skills, astronomy, and traditional music. Safety planning, adequate water, and respect for local customs remain essential in the harsh desert environment.