El Kala Travel Guide

Plan your trip to El Kala with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and local culture customs.


Introduction to El Kala

Located in the northeastern region of Algeria, El Kala is a beautiful, natural haven that offers visitors unforgettable experiences. From stunning national parks to beautiful Mediterranean beaches, El Kala is a versatile travel destination with a rich history and culture. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, activities to do, local cuisine, and cultural customs of El Kala.

List of Places to Visit in El Kala

El Kala boasts a range of culturally important attractions and natural wonders, perfect for the adventurous traveler. Here is a list of must-visit spots in El Kala:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • El Kala National Park: Established in 1983, El Kala National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes a network of 14 lakes and woodlands. The park is an important birdwatching and ecotourism destination with over 220 species of birds and rich wildlife, including the Barbary macaque, African wildcat, and Atlas deer. Visitors can hire a guide to explore the hiking and biking trails or take a boat tour on the park’s pristine lakes.

  • Borj el-Hissar Fortress: The Borj el-Hissar fortress is an ancient monument that dates back to the Ottoman era. It’s a great spot for visitors interested in history, architecture and military science. The fortress offers fantastic views of the Mediterranean sea and the town itself.

  • El Kala Archaeological Museum: Located in downtown El Kala, This museum showcases the region’s history in details, including its prehistoric origins, Roman influence and Arab-Islamic era.

Natural Attractions of El Kala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ain El Berd: Ain El Berd is a beautiful oasis nestled in the heart of El Kala. It is known for its crystal clear water and scenic views. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools, have a picnic underneath the palm trees, or take a hike in the surrounding hills.

  • Zahrez Grottoes: The Zahrez Grottoes is a beautiful cave system located near Ain El Berd. Visitors can explore the caverns filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

  • Tafat Beach: For a relaxing day out, head to Tafat Beach, one of the many beautiful beaches found in El Kala. The beach is clean and beautiful, offering visitors clear water and an opportunity to sunbathe, swim or snorkel.

Hiking/Biking Routes of El Kala

El Kala is home to some of the most beautiful hiking and biking routes in North Africa. Tourists can experience scenic beauty at its finest as they explore the lush woodlands, serene lakes, and breathtaking mountains. Here is a quick list of El Kala’s top hiking and biking routes for visitors.

  • El Kala National Park Trail: A guided trail that takes visitors on a 14km scenic tour of the lakes and woodlands of the El Kala National Park. It is suitable for hikers of all skills and also a perfect trail for bird watchers as well.

  • Ain El Berd Hiking Trail: This trail leads hikers through the beautiful oasis of Ain El Berd on a 4km trek. It passes through stunning rock formations and the ruins of former mining colonies and ends with a refreshing dip in the natural pools.

Best Things to Do in El Kala: Activities and Tours

El Kala offers visitors a vast range of activities that cater to different interests in both the scenic and cultural aspects of the region. Here are a few must-do activities when visiting El Kala.

  • Bird-Watching: El Kala National Park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the rare black stork and other birds of prey. Tourists can hire a guide and take a tour of the best spots for bird-watching.

  • Swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling: The Mediterranean beaches and rivers are perfect for a day out in the sun or to just unwind after an adventurous hike, visitors can also take up a diving class from any internationally certified operators.

  • Cultural and Historical Tour: A tour of El Kala’s history includes visits to the Borj el-Hissar fortress, El Kala Archaeological Museum, and in-depth discussions on the region’s history with the locals.

Week-Long Itinerary for El Kala

Here’s a suggested itinerary for visitors planning a week-long trip to El Kala:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a hotel, followed by a walk around downtown El Kala.

Day 2: A guided tour of El Kala National Park discovering the beautiful Lakes and abundant wildlife.

Day 3: A hike into the Ain El Berd trail with an afternoon picnic and a swim in the natural pool.

Day 4: A day at Tafat Beach to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

Day 5: Explore the historical monument - the Borj el-Hissar fortress.

Day 6: Visit the Zahrez Grottoes with a guided tour.

Day 7: Departure day

Food and Drink Scene of El Kala

El Kala cuisine harmonizes the North African tradition with Mediterranean flavors. Visitors to El Kala should try the following must-try dishes on any local menu.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Couscous: A North African staple, this dish is made from wheat semolina and served with stewed meat or vegetables.

  • Brik: A local favorite, brik is a pastry filled with an egg, tuna, and spices that is deep-fried and served hot.

  • Makroudh: A sweet pastry made with semolina and dates famously known to the region.

Local Beverages

  • Mint Tea: A signature Algerian drink, mint tea is a fragrant green tea infusion with fresh mint leaves.

  • Jus d’orange: Freshly squeezed orange juice that is commonly found in cafes and restaurants.

Where to Stay in El Kala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

El Kala offers various accommodation options ranging from affordable guesthouses to luxury villas. Some of the best places to stay for travelers include:

  • El Morjane: A cozy guesthouse located five minutes away from downtown El Kala. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and traditional Algerian breakfast.

  • Hotel Eden Palace: Hotel Eden Palace is a luxurious five-star hotel located near the beach in El Kala. It features a private beach, outdoor pool and on-site bar and restaurant.

What to Buy in El Kala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home a piece of El Kala by buying souvenirs and local products. Some popular gift ideas include:

  • Pottery: El Kala is known for its colorful pottery that comes in various sizes and shapes.

  • Berber rugs: Visitors can find unique Berber rugs that are hand-woven by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of El Kala

The locals of El Kala pride themselves on their rich cultural customs, and visitors should respect them during their stay. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly: Algerians are conservative, and visitors should avoid dressing in revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.

  • Show respect for elders: In Algerian culture, respecting elders is a priority.

  • Learn basic Arabic: Learning basic Arabic phrases is a great way to show respect for the locals, and it can also help visitors navigate communication barriers.

Best Time to Visit El Kala

The best time to visit El Kala is during the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of El Kala

Do:

  • Try the local delicacies
  • Respect the culture
  • Explore the national park

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothes in public areas
  • Invade privacy
  • Take pictures of strangers without first asking for their consent

Safety and Health

Safety in El Kala

El Kala is generally safe for visitors, but it is always recommended to take precautions such as keeping valuables safe and avoiding walking around with huge sums of cash or expensive jewelry in public areas. Make sure to always carry a copy of ID and passport at all times.

Health in El Kala

Visitors should make sure they are up to date with their routine vaccinations before traveling to El Kala. Polio vaccines are required for any visitor from or traveling through a country with an ongoing polio outbreak.

Getting to El Kala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near El Kala

The nearest international airport to El Kala is in the city of Annaba, approximately 100 km away from El Kala Country, and 200 km away is Algeria’s capital city, Algiers.

Bus Stations Near El Kala

El Kala is accessible via reliable daily Long-Distance Buses from Algiers and Annaba.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt for shared taxis, which are readily available at reasonable rates.

How to Get Around in El Kala

Visitors can get around in El Kala using taxis, buses, or by hiring a guide.

Where to Go Next from El Kala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that visitors can explore from El Kala include:

  • Annaba: A beautiful city home to several historical sites and the ancient city of Hippo Regius.

  • Constantine: Known as the city of bridges, Constantine offers tourists an opportunity to explore the city’s historical bridges and museums.

Conclusion

El Kala is a perfect destination for visitors that want to immerse themselves in scenic natural beauty and a rich culture. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, including hiking, swimming and historical tours. The local cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors that can satisfy the most discerning of taste buds. Plan your trip to El Kala and enjoy the hospitality that the region offers!

The old fishing harbor at El Kala facing the decommissioned Saint Cyprien Church The old fishing harbor at El Kala facing the decommissioned Saint Cyprien Church