Bechar Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bechar, Algeria with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Bechar

Bechar is a city located in the Saharan Atlas mountain range of Algeria. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history and culture, and friendly people. Whether you are a history buff or an adventure seeker, this city has something to offer. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top places to visit, things to do, and practical information to help you plan your trip to Bechar.

List of Places to Visit in Bechar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bechar boasts a rich history and culture that is reflected in its museums and historical sites. Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit in Bechar:

  • Museum of Islamic Art: This museum showcases a wide collection of Islamic art, including ceramics, calligraphy, textiles, and paintings.
  • Oasis Palm Grove of Taghit: This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a lush palm oasis with date farms and traditional Berber dwellings.
  • Kasbah of Bechar: This 16th-century palace was built by the local rulers of the Saadi dynasty and is now a museum showcasing traditional Berber culture and history.
  • Emir Abdelkader Mosque: This mosque is a masterpiece of religious architecture, dedicated to the famous Islamic scholar and leader Emir Abdelkader.

Natural Attractions of Bechar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bechar is also known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top natural attractions to visit in Bechar:

  • Tassili N’Ajjer National Park: This national park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, including deep canyons, towering rock formations, and rare plant and animal species.
  • Djebel Bou Zegza: This mountain is a popular spot for hiking, with its steep slopes and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Oasis of Beni Abbès: This desert oasis is a haven of palm trees, clear water springs, and traditional Berber villages.
  • Bechar dunes: These dunes are a popular destination for desert tours, camel treks, and sandboarding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bechar

Hiking and biking are popular activities in Bechar due to its diverse landscapes and terrain. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Djebel Bou Zegza Trail: This trail takes you through the mountains of Bechar, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
  • Taghit Oasis Trail: This trail takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Taghit Oasis, with its palm groves, traditional Berber dwellings, and ancient ruins.
  • Dunes Trail: This trail takes you through the Bechar dunes, with their towering sand formations and unique desert ecosystem.
  • Tassili N’Ajjer Trail: This trail takes you through the Tassili N’Ajjer National Park, with its rugged terrain, deep canyons, and rare plant and animal species.

Best Things to Do in Bechar: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are many other activities to enjoy in Bechar. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Desert tours: Take a guided tour of the Sahara Desert and explore the surrounding landscapes, culture, and history.
  • Camel treks: Experience the romance of the desert on a camel trek, which takes you on a journey through the dunes and oases.
  • Hot air balloon ride: See the stunning landscapes of Bechar from above on a hot air balloon ride.
  • Berber culture tours: Immerse yourself in the rich and unique Berber culture on a guided tour, which includes visits to traditional Berber dwellings, markets, and events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bechar

Day 1: Explore the Kasbah of Bechar and the Museum of Islamic Art for a glimpse of traditional Berber culture and Islamic art.

Day 2: Take a hiking trail through the Djebel Bou Zegza mountains to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 3: Visit the Tassili N’Ajjer National Park for a chance to see rare plant and animal species, deep canyons, and towering rock formations.

Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Berber villages, markets, and events to experience the rich culture of Bechar.

Day 5: Go on a camel trek or a desert tour to explore the stunning desert landscapes of Bechar.

Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride to see the stunning landscapes of Bechar from above.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and hospitality while exploring the local markets, souvenirs and local products to buy or bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Bechar

No travel experience is complete without exploring the local food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages of Bechar:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Merguez: This spicy sausage is made with lamb or beef and seasoned with flavorful spices like cumin, chili pepper, and garlic.
  • Couscous: This classic dish is made with semolina wheat and served with vegetables, meat or fish, and a flavorful sauce made of herbs and spices.
  • Tajine: This slow-cooked stew is made with meat, vegetables, and spices, and is served with warm bread or couscous.

Local Beverages

  • Mint tea: This refreshing tea is a staple of North African culture and is made with fresh mint leaves and sugar.
  • Berber whisky: This non-alcoholic beverage is made of a blend of herbs and spices, and is a traditional way to welcome guests.

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

When it comes to accommodation, Bechar has plenty of options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the top places to stay in Bechar:

  • Ibis Budget Bechar Hotel: A comfortable hotel with modern amenities and a central location.
  • Dyarna Hotel: A luxurious hotel with an outdoor pool and a spa, located in the heart of Bechar.
  • Dar Ibn Khaldoun: A traditional guesthouse with a beautiful courtyard and charming rooms, located in the Kasbah of Bechar.

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

Bechar is known for its unique handicrafts, souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the top souvenirs to bring home:

  • Rugs and carpets: The local Berber weavers are renowned for their skill in creating unique rugs and carpets, made from natural fibers and vibrant colors.
  • Dates: Bechar is famous for its delicious dates, which are available in a variety of flavors and sizes.
  • Jewelry and pottery: The local artisans create beautiful and unique jewelry and pottery, reflecting the rich culture and history of Bechar.

Local Culture and Customs of Bechar

Bechar is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly: Bechar is a conservative city, so it is best to dress modestly to avoid causing offense.
  • Respect the local religion: Islam is the dominant religion in Bechar, and visitors are encouraged to respect this.
  • Greet people politely: Greet locals with a polite “as-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) and receive their response of “wa alaykum as-salam” (and upon you, peace).

Best Time to Visit Bechar

Bechar has a hot and dry climate, with temperatures soaring in the summer months. The best time to visit Bechar is between November and April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The average temperature during this time ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bechar

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly
  • Carry cash as credit cards are not widely accepted
  • Try the local Berber cuisine

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places
  • Engage in public displays of affection
  • Photograph people without their permission
  • Haggle aggressively in the marketplaces

Safety and Health

Safety in Bechar

Bechar is generally a safe city for visitors. However, it is recommended that you take the following precautions:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables
  • Stay in reputable accommodation
  • Be wary of pickpockets and petty thieves in crowded areas

Health in Bechar

Before traveling to Bechar, it is recommended that you get a vaccination for hepatitis A and B. You should also take precautions to avoid dehydration and heat stroke, by drinking plenty of water and staying out of the hot sun during the hottest hours of the day.

Getting to Bechar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bechar

Bechar has a small airport, Bechar Boudghene Ben Ali Lotfi Airport, which offers domestic flights to other cities in Algeria.

Bus Stations Near Bechar

Bechar has a bus station that offers buses to neighboring cities and towns in Algeria.

Other Options

Another option is to hire a car and drive to Bechar from neighboring cities. The roads are well maintained and easy to navigate.

How to Get Around in Bechar

In Bechar, the most popular mode of transportation is taxis, which are cheap and plentiful. Alternatively, you can hire a car or a motorbike to explore the city at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Bechar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can take from Bechar:

  • Timimoun: This city is located 220 km from Bechar, and is renowned for its stunning red sandstone architecture and beautiful oases.
  • Tlemcen: This city is located about 500 km from Bechar, and is known for its rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Algiers: The capital city of Algeria is located 1165 km from Bechar, and offers a wealth of historical and cultural sites, as well as modern amenities.

Conclusion

Bechar is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Bechar with confidence, knowing that you have all the information you need to make the most of your visit. Whether you want to explore the stunning desert landscapes or immerse yourself in the rich Berber culture, Bechar has something to offer for everyone.

A qibba at the Thaghirt Oasis A qibba at the Thaghirt Oasis