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Canyon and the old train
Seldja Gorge is both easy and difficult to reach. There are no roads
leading out here, but in return you get one of the most attractive
train rides left in this part of the world. The old train of the former
Tunisian bey (ruler) — once used as for country-wide travels as well as
a demonstration of his power — has been restored, and do the 2 hour
stretch between Metlaoui and Moulares every day except Monday.
The
Seldja Gorge is the most memorable part of the trip, and you will pass
through narrow canyons with mountain walls of up to 200 metres. The
sights are grand, and even if the canyons here are smaller than the
ones of Mides, the Seldja Gorge can be experienced them from the
ground. If you have the chance, a 4X4-drive out here is best, since
that will allow you to make more stops.
First valley stop
The first stop comes fast. You have just about left the boredom of
Metlaoui, and it doesn't take more than a tunnel ride before magic
takes place.
At
this place, the gorge has come to its end. Through the last, narrow
ravine you will see down into the strangely flat landscape of Chott
el-Gharsa, the second largest salt lake of the country.
Even
in the middle of summer (these photos were taken in June 2005) the
river carries water. Still it won't get anywhere, somewhere out there
the river dries out.
Second valley stop
Before arriving at the second stop of the train journey, you will pass
through plenty of beautiful landscape. Most other people on the train
kept their cameras running all the time. Stand prepared for a tiny
little stretch between two tunnels, where the gorge comes to its most
dramatic curves.
The
second stop has the highest mountain walls, reaching up to 200 metres.
It is also a great place to inspect the mud sediments from the river,
crackled in the sun.
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