Ennedi Massif: Natural and Cultural Landscape

The Ennedi Massif lies in northeastern Chad. UNESCO describes its sandstone plateau as sculpted by water and wind erosion into canyons and valleys, with cliffs, natural arches and prominent rock formations. The striking landforms reflect the long action of erosion on the plateau.

Although the surrounding region is arid, water persists in some of the massif's largest canyons. UNESCO notes that these waters are essential to the ecosystem, supporting plants, animals and human life. African Parks describes the wider Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve as a large landscape of water catchments and a habitat for wildlife, including resident and migratory birds.

Rock surfaces in caves, canyons and shelters bear thousands of painted and engraved images, forming one of the largest ensembles of rock art in the Sahara according to UNESCO. African Parks also reports archaeological sites with paintings, engravings and mausoleums, evidence of human habitation reaching back to the Neolithic period. The landscape is therefore significant for both its natural forms and cultural record.

UNESCO inscribed the Ennedi Massif: Natural and Cultural Landscape on the World Heritage List in 2016. The protected landscape includes important natural and cultural values. African Parks says it entered a management partnership with Chad's government in 2018 for the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, with work focused on conservation and management alongside local communities.