The range is broken by a series of west-east oriented fossil drainage networks resulting in deep gorges.

[3] The range reaches its maximum elevation of 1,340 m (4,400 ft) towards its southern end about 160 km southeast of Djanet.

[4] The area is well known for the spectacular red-orange sand dune fields contrasting with the jagged dark red rock formations of the range.

But during the African humid period the area had rainfall and was covered by savanna vegetation and thus was suitable for human and animal life.

[7] The Tadrart Rouge has magnificent Saharan rock art covering a long chronological span from early Neolithic to recent times.