I cycled across the Tanezrouft Desert (Algeria) – a documented bikepacking expedition

Hi everyone,

My name is Muhammad Redha Ghouileb, I’m an Algerian bikepacker.

On January 6, 2026, I completed a bicycle crossing of the Tanezrouft Desert in southern Algeria — one of the most remote and hostile desert regions on Earth. To the best of available public records, this is among the first documented crossings of the Tanezrouft by bicycle.

For context: the only previously known bicycle crossing of the Tanezrouft Desert that I am aware of was completed by the explorer Jean Naud. My expedition was carried out independently, following a different timeframe and logistical approach.

The route started from the village of Akabli (Tidikelt region) and reached PK200 (kilometer marker 200), covering 247 km in 3 days. This section was extremely difficult: deep sand, fully off-road, no settlements, no water sources, and no signs of human life,
I brought with me enough water for 6 days, 16 liters.

From PK200, I continued for approximately 450 km toward Bordj Badji Mokhtar (BBM), which I completed in 5 days. This part included long off-road desert stretches and the final paved road section approaching BBM.

• Total distance: 697 km
• Total duration: 8 days
• Off-road / sand: ~550 km
• Paved road: ~148 km

The main challenges were water logistics, navigation in a featureless environment, soft sand riding, mechanical reliability, and managing exposure to isolation and desert conditions.
I undertook this adventure using a fat bike. (Surly Wednesday 26×4.40)

I documented the entire expedition on video. Short clips were shared on social media, and I’m currently preparing a full documentary-style video for YouTube.

I’m posting here to share the experience with fellow bikepackers and to contribute practical knowledge about remote desert bikepacking.

If there’s interest, I’m happy to share:
– route overview
– water strategy
– bike and gear setup
– navigation approach
– lessons learned and mistakes

Thanks for reading.