1,000 foreign tourists to visit Tamanrasset to celebrate New Year

The number of tourists expected to arrive to the province of Tamanrasset would reach 1,000 before the end of December. They would come from different countries to spend the end of year holidays, tourism director said.

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  “The tourism department started preparing for receiving tourists in collaboration with touristy agencies,” Abderrahmane Dahadj told Echorouk.

  “They mainly come from France, Germany and Italy by air and sea. The number of non-stops was reduced this year to two instead of four compared to the last year,” he added.

  The number of tourists went down compared to 1,300 in 2009. The total annual number was estimated at 4,500 in 2009.

  The tourism director believes that the decrease is due to the financial crisis while some transporters say it is because of the closure of Tassili Park for security reasons.

  Touristy groups are supervised by agencies which provide them with transport, shelter and food. They also accompany them to touristy sites. Of them, the grave of Foucault, the Church’s founder in late 18^th century, Tinhinane’s grave and the palace of Moussa Agh Amestane, Touaregs’ leader. 
  

  The most important way taken by tourists is the way leading to Assekrem. There, they could see the most wonderful sun set and rise in the world. 
  

  Tamanrasset has two important museums. Of them, there are: Al Ahagar Park, the craftsmen’s garden, Adriane gardens, Tahabourt mineral resource and Tameguersst water falls.

  It also has 80 touristy agencies, seven hotels and 15 summer camps.