Port is an independently wealthy American traveler exploring the interior of North Africa with his wife. Disdaining the title of tourist, he constantly seeks out unfamiliar, challenging environments to escape the mechanized, post-war world. He treats his travels as an intellectual exercise, often retreating into philosophical musings that isolate him from those around him.

Kit is a sophisticated American woman traveling through the North African desert with her husband. She struggles with intense anxiety, relying heavily on omens and superstitions to guide her actions. Though she wishes to please Port, his constant desire to press deeper into the unknown leaves her feeling vulnerable and emotionally stranded.

Tunner is a handsome, conventionally minded American who accompanies the Moresbys on their journey. Lacking Port's philosophical intensity, he treats the trip as a standard adventure. He is drawn to the couple's sophistication, viewing Kit's complex personality as an irresistible challenge to his vanity.

Eric is a young traveler moving through North Africa with his mother. He presents an obsequious, sycophantic demeanor while constantly soliciting small loans from fellow Westerners. His intrusive presence repeatedly disrupts the Americans' travel plans.

Mrs. Lyle is a loud, matronly travel photographer traveling the globe with her son. She operates out of a profound fear of the unfamiliar, constantly spewing bigoted diatribes against the local populations they encounter.

Smail is a local man who acts as a makeshift guide for Westerners. He leads visitors through the local encampments and cafes, representing the foreign mysteries that travelers seek out.

Marhnia is a young local woman with striking indigo designs tattooed on her forehead. She interacts with foreign travelers through guides, communicating exclusively in her native language.

Mohammed is the proprietor of a hotel in Ain Krorfa. He maintains a cynical view of Western tourists, believing they hide their true intentions behind a facade of innocence.

Lieutenant d'Armagnac is the French commander of the military post in Bou Noura. He carefully balances his military authority with the need to maintain friendly relationships with influential local figures, often viewing tourists as diplomatic nuisances.

Abdelkader is an esteemed local figure and proprietor in Bou Noura. He wields significant influence in the town, forcing the French military to handle any accusations against him with extreme care.

Captain Broussard is a strict military commander stationed in a remote desert town. He adheres rigidly to protocol and views unfamiliar travelers with suspicion, strictly controlling the limited resources in his outpost.

Daoud is a Jewish shopkeeper who interacts with Western travelers. He provides brief moments of practical assistance to those struggling in the harsh environment.

Belqassim is a young man traveling through the deep Sahara. Operating outside the bounds of European colonial authority, he lives according to the harsh realities of the desert.

Amar is a local resident who bridges the gap between the native population and Westerners due to his ability to speak French. He offers assistance to stranded travelers while remaining highly practical about financial matters.

Miss Ferry is a representative for the American Consulate. She projects an upbeat, bureaucratic optimism but struggles to understand the severe psychological toll the desert takes on the travelers she assists.