Ghardaia

The M'Zab valley is located in Algeria, in the heart of the Sahara desert 600km south of Algiers. Five ksour (fortified villages) are in the oasis: El-Atteuf, Bounoura, Melika, Ghardaia and Beni-Isguen. These villages are surrounded by palm groves and were founded between 1012 and 1350 by the Mozabites, a Muslim Ibadi sect of Berbers, who are distinct from Sunni or Shia Muslims.
The M'zab valley villages have preserved their unique architecture and culture over the centuries. Each village is centered around a mosque with a minaret which acts as a watchtower and grain and weapons storage. Around it houses are built in concentric circles until the city walls. The The M'zab valley has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1982
How to get to Ghardaia
The only way to get to Ghardaia is by road, either by car or by bus. A good paved road connects Ghardaia to northern Algeria.
Accommodation
There are several hotels in Ghardaia, but only a few are bookable online.