Algeria

Algeria: general info for travelers

Algeria is a country located in North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Tunisia to the northeast, Libya to the east, Niger to the southeast, Mali to the southwest, Western Sahara and Morocco to the west. It is the largest country in Africa and the 10th largest in the world. Algiers is the capital city of Algeria and Arabic is the official language. The country is rich in history, culture, and natural resources, with the Sahara desert covering about 85% of its land. Its diverse landscapes also include mountains, forests, and beaches. Algeria is known for its ancient Roman ruins, such as the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Timgad and Djemila, and its traditional music, which includes the raï genre. The country's economy is largely dependent on oil and natural gas exports.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Algeria, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Algeria: places to visit

Certainly, here are some of the top places to visit in Algeria and their descriptions: 1. Algiers: The capital city of Algeria is a bustling metropolitan with a rich history, culture, and modern allure. Visit Kasbah, explore the ancient city gates, museums, and take a stroll at the Port Area.
2. Tassili N'Ajjer National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts some of the most stunning natural scenery on earth. The park features prehistoric cave paintings, vast sand dunes, and remarkable rock formations.
3. Oran: Located on the northwest coast of Algeria, Oran is a beautiful coastal city known for its charming European architecture, sandy beaches, and art museums.
4. Constantine: Known as the "City of Bridges", Constantine has a unique charm with its cliffside location, suspension bridges, old town area and Palace of Ahmed Bey.
5. Tlemcen: This city boasts a rich history of being a trading center in North Africa, famous for its intricate designs of mosques and buildings as well as a stunning view of the Atlas Mountains.
6. Djemila: This ancient Roman City is one of the best-preserved historic sites in Algeria. With stunning temples, villas, and grand public buildings, it’s a must-visit place for history lovers.
7. Tipasa: Tipasa is another ancient Roman site lying on the beautiful Mediterranean coast. This site boasts Roman ruins as well as early Christian catacombs, making it a fascinating place to visit.
There are plenty more gems to discover in Algeria, but these are just some of the top places you shouldn't miss!
There is more to see and do in Algeria: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Algeria: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Algeria, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Algeria has a predominantly arid and hot climate, with some regions experiencing cooler temperatures in the mountains. The best time to visit Algeria is usually during the spring (March-June) and autumn (September-November) months, when temperatures are milder. During the summer months (June-August), temperatures can reach as high as 40°C in the Sahara Desert and other inland areas, so it's best to avoid visiting during this time if you're not used to extreme heat. However, if you do plan to visit during the summer, coastal cities like Algiers offer some relief with temperatures hovering around 30°C.
Winter months (December-February) in Algeria can be chilly, especially in the mountainous regions where temperatures can drop below freezing. However, the desert regions remain mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
Overall, the weather in Algeria can vary greatly depending on the region, so it's important to research specific destinations before planning your trip.

Algeria: activities and what to do

There are plenty of activities and sports to do on holiday in Algeria. Here are some of them: 1. Trekking in Tassili n'Ajjer National Park 2. Hiking in Djurdjura National Park 3. Sandboarding in the Sahara Desert 4. Surfing in Tipaza or Jijel 5. Snorkeling and diving in the Mediterranean Sea 6. Paragliding in the Kabylie Mountains 7. Rock climbing and bouldering in the Atakor massif 8. Horseback riding in the M'zab Valley 9. Fishing in the Tafna River or the Saharan oases 10. Golfing in the beautiful courses around Algiers.
Keep in mind that some of these activities may require prior planning and arrangements. It's always advisable to seek advice and guidance from local tour operators or travel agencies.

Algeria: few words on history and culture

Algeria has a rich history and diverse culture that represents a mix of Arab, Berber, and French influences. The country has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and over the centuries, has been ruled by numerous empires and dynasties, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Ottomans, and French.
Algeria gained independence from French colonial rule in 1962, and since then, the country has placed a strong emphasis on preserving its cultural heritage. Some of the most iconic cultural landmarks include the Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the ancient Roman ruins at Tipaza and Timgad.
The traditional Berber culture of Algeria is also still present, with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year celebrating Berber customs and traditions. Algerian cuisine is also rich and diverse, featuring a mix of Arabic and Berber influences, and dishes such as couscous, tagines, and merguez sausage are popular across the country.

Algeria: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Algeria would depend on where you are starting your journey from. If you are coming from another country, the most common means of transport would be by air. Algiers International Airport is the main international gateway to Algeria, and several airlines offer direct flights to other major cities around the world.
Once you arrive in Algeria, there are several modes of transport you can use to get around the country. The most common means of transport for local travel within Algeria are taxis, buses, and trains. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, but it's important to negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Buses are also a popular means of transportation, especially for longer distances. The national bus company is called Entreprise Nationale de Transport Routier (ENTR) and they have a comprehensive network of bus routes across the country.
For longer journeys, trains are a more comfortable option. Algeria's national railway company, SNTF, operates trains that connect most major cities in Algeria, including Algiers, Oran, and Constantine.
Finally, if you're looking for a more adventurous way to see the country, you could consider renting a car. However, be aware that driving in Algeria can be challenging due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic in some areas. To hire a car to visit Algeria, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Algeria: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Algeria with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Algeria with a short description of each: 1. Couscous: Algerian couscous is a staple food in Algerian cuisine. It is usually made from finely ground semolina grains and served with meat or vegetables in a flavorful broth.
2. Tagine: Tagine is a slow-cooked stew that is traditionally cooked in a conical ceramic pot. It usually contains a variety of vegetables, meat or fish, and spices and is served with bread.
3. Harira: Harira is a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices. It is often served during the month of Ramadan as a breaking of the fast.
4. Brik: Brik is a popular Algerian appetizer that is made with a thin pastry dough filled with a mixture of egg, tuna, or meat and herbs. It is deep-fried until crispy and served hot.
5. Merguez: Merguez is a spicy sausage made from lamb or beef that is popular in North Africa. It is often grilled and served with bread or in a sandwich.
These are just a few examples of the main typical foods of Algeria. Algerian cuisine is diverse and delicious, so there are many more dishes to discover!

Algeria: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Algeria is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists, especially compared to other countries in the region. However, prices can vary depending on the region and type of accommodation chosen. In larger cities like Algiers, prices may be slightly higher, but overall, Algeria can be a budget-friendly destination for travelers. It's always a good idea to research prices and make a budget for your trip beforehand.

Algeria: where to find accodation

There are several websites that you can use to look for accommodation options in Algeria. Some popular options are: 1. Booking.com: This website has a wide variety of options, including hotels, apartments, and villas.
2. Airbnb: If you're looking for unique and more homely accommodation options, Airbnb may be a good choice. You can find apartments, houses, and even traditional guest houses in Algeria on Airbnb.
3. Agoda: This website offers a range of options for budget and luxury accommodations in Algeria, including hotels, apartments, and resorts.
4. TripAdvisor: In addition to hotel reviews and ratings, TripAdvisor can also help you find vacation rentals and holiday homes in Algeria.
5. Hotels.com: This website offers a wide range of options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts and everything in between. They often have deals and promotions as well.
It's always a good idea to read reviews from other travelers before booking a place to stay, as they can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
You can check hotel prices in Algeria here:
Booking.com

Algeria: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Bank, Algeria received approximately 2.7 million tourists in 2018. However, this number has been fluctuating in recent years due to security concerns and political instability. As for crowded periods, Algeria's peak tourism season is generally during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is warm and many locals go on vacation. During this time, certain popular destinations like the beaches and tourist attractions can become crowded.
Algeria is generally a safe country for tourists, but travelers should take certain precautions. The country has experienced some security challenges in the past, such as terrorism and kidnapping, particularly in remote areas and along the borders. Thus, tourists should stay informed about the security situation in the country and follow the guidance of their embassy or consulate. It is recommended to avoid certain areas, such as the Saharan region in the south, where kidnapping has occurred in the past. There are also some areas in the east and west that travelers should avoid due to security concerns. It is advisable to take a guided tour or travel with a reputable tour operator. Overall, with the proper precautions and common sense, Algeria can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Algeria on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Algeria: events for tourists

Algeria offers a wide range of interesting events for tourists all year round. Here are some of the most popular events: 1. Festival of Timgad in June: This festival features music, dance, and theater performances set against the breathtaking backdrop of the ancient Roman city of Timgad.
2. Ghardaia International Festival in August: This colorful festival highlights traditional music, dance, and handicrafts of the M'zab valley.
3. National Day in November: This is a public holiday in Algeria and is celebrated countrywide with patriotic marches and ceremonies.
4. Fantasia in May and June: This spectacular equestrian show sees horse riders charge at full speed in traditional outfits while firing their rifles in the air.
5. Oasis Festival in December: This festival showcases the cultural richness of the Saharan region, with camel races, music performances, and traditional dances.
6. Yennayer (New Year) in January: This is the Berber New Year and is celebrated by the indigenous Berber population with traditional food, music, and dance performances.
These events offer a unique insight into Algerian culture and are definitely worth experiencing if you have the chance.

Algeria: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Algeria, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly, here is a two week itinerary for a typical tourist in Algeria: Day 1-2: Algiers - Start your trip in the country's capital, Algiers and spend two days exploring the city's historic neighborhoods, museums and mosques. Make sure to visit the Casbah of Algiers, Dar Hassan Pacha Museum and El Djedid Mosque.
Day 3: Tipaza - Head west of Algiers to Tipaza, an ancient Roman port city where you can visit impressive ruins, the Museum of Tipasa and enjoy the Mediterranean sea views.
Day 4-5: Oran - Next, travel to Oran, the second-largest city in Algeria and explore the historic landmarks such as the Bey's Palace, the Santa Cruz Fort and the Oran Theater. Don't forget to sample the local seafood cuisine.
Day 6-7: Tlemcen - Continue your journey to Tlemcen, known for its beautiful architecture and history. Visit the Grand Mosque and the gardens of the El Mechouar palace. Don't miss the Mansourah fortress located atop the city for panoramic views of Tlemcen.
Day 8-9: Ghardaia - Journey south beyond the Atlas mountains to reach Ghardaia, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique architecture and traditional Berber culture. Explore the beautiful Beni Isguen market and visit the M'Zab Valley, a natural oasis providing stunning views.
Day 10-11: Constantine - Take in the stunning views of the Rhumel Gorge before discovering the sites of Constantine, the third largest city of Algeria, including the Ahmed Bey Palace and the Emir Abdelkader Mosque.
Day 12-14: Sahara Desert - Conclude your trip to Algeria with an excursion into the Sahara desert. Take a guided tour to explore the sand dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental, or visit the beautiful oasis towns of Timimoun and Ghardaia.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip to Algeria! Safe travels!

Algeria: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Algeria described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Algiers is the capital city of Algeria, located on the Mediterranean coast. It is one of the largest cities in North Africa and has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Algiers has a charm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Algeri
- Annaba is a coastal city located in the northeastern part of Algeria. It is the capital of the Annaba Province and has a population of over 500,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful beaches,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Annaba
- Batna is a city located in northeast Algeria, about 430 kilometers southeast of the capital, Algiers. It is the capital of the Batna Province and has a population of approximately 300,000 people. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Batna
- Bechar is a city located in the southwestern region of Algeria, near the Moroccan border. It is the capital of Bechar Province and has a population of approximately 200,000 people. The city is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bechar
- Biskra is a city located in southeastern Algeria, near the border with Tunisia. It is known as the "Queen of the Oases" due to its large number of date palms, which are a major source of income for th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Biskra
- Blida is a city in northern Algeria, located about 45 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Algiers. It is situated in the Tell Atlas mountain range and has a population of around 200,000 people... CONTINUE here for a trip to Blida
- Bouira is a city located in the north-central part of Algeria. It is the capital of Bouira Province and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. The city is situated in the foothills of the D... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bouira
- Boumerdes is a coastal city and province located in the north-central region of Algeria. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Atlas Mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boumerdes
- Béjaïa is a city located in northern Algeria, on the Mediterranean coast. It is the capital of Béjaïa Province and has a population of approximately 200,000 people. The city has a rich history, having... CONTINUE here for a trip to Béjaïa
- Chlef is a city in northwestern Algeria, located approximately 200 kilometers west of the capital city of Algiers. It is the capital of Chlef Province and has a population of around 1 million people. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chlef
- Constantine is a city located in the northeast of Algeria. It is the third largest city in the country, after Algiers and Oran, with a population of around 500,000. The city is known for its rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Constantine
- El Bayadh is a city located in the western part of Algeria, about 430 kilometers southwest of the capital city, Algiers. It is the capital city of the province of El Bayadh and has a population of app... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Bayadh
- El Oued is a city located in eastern Algeria, near the border with Tunisia. It is known as the "City of a Thousand Domes" due to its distinctive architecture featuring many domes on its buildings. El ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Oued
- Ghardaia is a historic city and oasis located in southern Algeria. It is the capital of the Ghardaia Province and the M'zab District, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique mud-bri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ghardaia
- Jijel is a coastal city located in northeastern Algeria, known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and natural attractions. It is surrounded by the Jijel National Park, which features diver... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jijel
- Mostaganem is a coastal city located in the northwest of Algeria. Known for its beautiful beaches and Mediterranean climate, Mostaganem is a popular tourist destination in Algeria. The city has a rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mostaganem
- Orano, formerly known as "Mers-el-Kébir", is a port city located in the northwest of Algeria, in the wilaya (province) of Oran. It is the second largest city in the province after the city of Oran its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Orano
- Sure, here's some general information about Setif:... CONTINUE here for a trip to Setif
- Sidi Bel Abbès is a city located in northwestern Algeria, about 430 kilometers west of Algiers. It is the capital of the eponymous province of Sidi Bel Abbès and has a population of approximately 220,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sidi Bel Abbès
- Skikda is a coastal city located in northeastern Algeria. It is the capital city of the Skikda Province and is situated on the Gulf of Stora, a natural port on the Mediterranean Sea. Skikda is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skikda
- Tamanrasset is a city located in the southern part of Algeria, close to the border with Niger. It is the capital of the Tamanrasset Province and is often referred to as the "gateway to the Sahara Dese... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamanrasset
- Tiaret is a city located in the northwestern region of Algeria. It is the capital of the province of the same name and has a population of approximately 180,000 people. The city is situated on a plate... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tiaret
- Tizi Ouzou is a city located in the Kabylie region of northern Algeria. It is the largest city and the capital of the Tizi Ouzou Province. The city has a population of approximately 100,000 people and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tizi Ouzou
- Tizi Rached is a small town located in the Tizi Ouzou Province in northern Algeria. It is situated in the Atlas Mountains and has a population of approximately 7,000 people. The town is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tizi Rached
- Tlemcen is a city located in northwestern Algeria, near the borders of Morocco and Tunisia. It is known for its rich history and culture, with an old medina (walled town) dating back to the 14th centu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tlemcen


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