Algeria Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Algeria? This guide covers everything from must-visit places to stay, food and drink, safety, health, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Algeria

Algeria, located in North Africa, is a diverse and vibrant country with an intriguing history and breathtaking landscapes. This travel guide aims to take you through the best of Algeria, from culturally important attractions to the natural beauty of outdoor adventures and scenic views.

List of Places to Visit in Algeria

Algeria boasts numerous attractions including world heritage sites, museums, and stunning natural scenery. Here are some must-visit places in the country:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tassili n’Ajjer National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its prehistoric rock art.
  • Casbah of Algiers: A historical citadel in Algiers which is a UNESCO World Heritage SiteS
  • The National Museum of Fine Arts of Algiers: The largest museum in Algeria, which houses an extensive collection of modern and ancient art.
  • Madghacen: An ancient Berber city dating back to Roman times.
  • El Oued: A unique desert city with traditional architectural features including domed structures, a central mosque, and a palace.

Natural Attractions of Algeria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sahara Desert: The world’s largest hot desert, with endless sand dunes and stunning landscapes.
  • Ghardaia: A stunning oasis town located in the Sahara.
  • Djurdjura National Park: A mountainous park located in the north of the country, with alpine lakes, sweeping vistas, and rare wildlife.
  • Chrea National Park: A breathtaking mountain range, perfect for hiking and skiing during the winter.
  • Tlemcen National Park: A nature reserve with natural springs, dense forests, and pristine lakes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Algeria

For those who love adventure and being in nature, Algeria has many hiking and biking routes to explore. Some of the best include:

  • Tassili-n-Ajjer:
  • Hoggar Mountains:

Best Things to Do in Algeria: Activities and Tours

Algeria offers a diverse range of activities and tours. Here are some must-try experiences:

  • Camel Trekking in the Sahara: Take a tour through the dunes on camelback and explore the vast expanse of the desert.
  • Visit the Roman Ruins: Algeria has a rich Roman history, and the ruins of Timgad, Djemila, and Tipasa provide a glimpse into the past.
  • Take a 4x4 safari: Explore the rugged terrain of the Sahara in a four-wheel drive and see the landscapes from a new perspective.
  • Explore the Casbah of Algiers: A walking tour of the UNESCO heritage site is a must-do activity for anyone interested in Algeria’s history.
  • Visit Timgad’s amphitheater: Experience the grandeur of the Roman Empire in Timgad’s well-preserved amphitheater

Week-Long Itinerary for Algeria

For a week-long Algerian adventure, consider this itinerary:

Day 1: Algiers and Casbah Day 2-3: Tassili N’Ajjer Day 4: Ghardaia and the M’zab Valley Day 5: Explore the Sahara Desert Day 6: Tlemcen National Park Day 7: Djurdjura National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Algeria

Algerian cuisine is known for its mix of Berber and Arabic traditions, spices, and flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Couscous: A staple dish made from semolina and served with vegetables, meat, and broth.
  • Berber Tagine: A hearty stew made from meat or chicken, potatoes, carrots, and onions served in a clay pot.
  • Merguez: A spicy lamb sausage.
  • Brik: A crispy pastry filled with egg and tuna, or other fillings.
  • Makroud: A sweet pastry made with semolina, honey, and dates or almonds.

Local Beverages

  • Mint tea: A refreshing tea made with mint leaves and sugar, served hot.
  • Saharan wine: Produced in the Sahara desert, this wine is known for its unique and hearty taste.
  • Bissap: This sweet, tangy hibiscus tea is a popular local drink.
  • Algerian beer: Local breweries produce several different types of beer, including the popular Flag Speciale.

Where to Stay in Algeria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Algeria has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • El Aurassi Hotel: Located in central Algiers, this luxurious five-star hotel boasts stunning views of the city and top-notch amenities.
  • Hotel Du Tassili: Situated in the heart of Tassili N’Ajjer, this is a popular choice for those exploring the national park.
  • Hotel Emir: A budget-friendly option located in the historic Casbah of Algiers
  • Timimoun Hotel: Set in the city of Timimoun, this hotel offers a comfortable stay and easy access to the Sahara desert.

What to Buy in Algeria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Algeria is known for its textiles, pottery, and traditional crafts. Here are some top souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Hand-woven carpets: Made by local artisans, these colorful carpets are a staple of Algerian home decor.
  • Pottery: The country is well known for its intricate pottery, which is often decorated with traditional patterns and motifs.
  • Traditional Clothing Items: Algeria’s traditional clothing, including djellabas, sarouels, and haiks, are unique and eye-catching.
  • Spices: Algeria’s spice bazaars are a must-visit for anyone wanting to bring home authentic Algerian cuisine.

Local Culture and Customs of Algeria

Algeria has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Berber, Arab, and French influences. Visitors should respect Islamic customs, dress modestly, and be mindful of prayer times.

Best Time to Visit Algeria

The best times to visit Algeria are during the spring (March-May) and the autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild, and rainfall is low. The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, while the winter can get cold in central and northern regions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Algeria

It’s vital to be aware of cultural norms and traditions when visiting Algeria:

Do:

  • Learn basic Arabic phrases before traveling to Algeria.
  • Dress modestly, especially if visiting religious sites.
  • Remove shoes when entering a mosque or someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink alcohol in public.
  • Don’t bring pork products into the country.
  • Avoid taking pictures of local people without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Algeria should take precautions regarding safety and health due to the country’s history of terrorist activities and crime. It’s important to check with the State Department’s website for travel advisories before visiting. Additionally, it’s recommended to get travel insurance, vaccinations, and be aware of potential illnesses like malaria and typhoid fever.

Safety in Algeria

  • Avoid traveling to remote areas without a guide
  • Don’t leave belongings unattended.
  • Don’t carry too much money with you when traveling.

Health in Algeria

  • Drink bottled water only.
  • Use insect repellent to prevent bites and infections.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness immediately.

Getting to Algeria: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways to get to Algeria from Europe, including flights and ferries. Here are some options:

Airports Near Algeria

  • Houari Boumediene Airport, Algiers
  • Es Senia Airport, Oran
  • Mohamed Boudiaf International Airport, Constantine

Bus Stations Near Algeria

  • Tunis, Tunisia
  • Tangiers, Morocco
  • Ouargla, Algeria

Other Options

  • Travel by ferry: Ferries run between several ports in Spain, France and Italy to reach Algeria’s port cities.
  • Drive: Visitors can enter Algeria via Tunisia or Morocco.

How to Get Around in Algeria

Algeria has several transportation options for getting around, including taxis, buses, and trains. However, renting a car is a practical and convenient option for those wanting to explore more remote areas.

Where to Go Next from Algeria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Algeria is located in North Africa and is a gateway to the region. Here are some nearby destinations that visitors can explore:

  • Tunisia: Just east of Algeria, Tunisia is home to ancient ruins in Carthage, the stunning Sahara desert, and the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
  • Morocco: Across the border to the west, Morocco is known for its fascinating culture, bustling medinas, and stunning architecture.
  • Libya: Located to the east, Libya is known for its ancient ruins and vast Sahara desert.

Conclusion

Algeria is a beautiful and diverse country with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Algeria has it all. Be sure to plan your trip ahead and take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Roman ruins near Batna Roman ruins near Batna Visa policy of Algeria Visa policy of Algeria Ibn Badis Mosque, Oran Ibn Badis Mosque, Oran M'zab architecture M'zab architecture Railway map of Algeria Railway map of Algeria A cable car in Algiers A cable car in Algiers Mosaic at Tipasa Museum Mosaic at Tipasa Museum Guided camel tour Guided camel tour Road sign in Arabic, French and English Road sign in Arabic, French and English Traditional Berber carpet designs Traditional Berber carpet designs Chicken tagine with olives Chicken tagine with olives Tea in Sahara Tea in Sahara Workers of Disinfection Brigade seen during the COVID-19 pandemic Workers of Disinfection Brigade seen during the COVID-19 pandemic


    Central Algeria
    Northeast Algeria
    Northwest Algeria
    Saharan Algeria
    Saharan Atlas