Chott el Jerid

The largest salt pan in the Sahara, crossed by a straight causeway. In the heat, mirages float over the white crust, and pools turn pink with algae.

History

Caravans crossed the salt flat by following markers, and losing the path could be fatal.

Customs

Do not drive off the causeway: the crust can hide mud.

Food

Roadside stands sell desert roses, crystals of gypsum and sand.

Best time

Sunrise, when the salt shines pink and gold.

Luke Skywalker's homestead scenes in the 1977 "Star Wars" were filmed at the edge of the Chott el Jerid, and the igloo-shaped set can still be visited.