If you can’t speak Arabic, don’t know how to ride a camel and aren’t a Muslim, it may be harder for you to get acquainted with this civil-war torn desert country than others.
Algeria is overlooked by many travelers, but if you do persevere, you will encounter wonderful old cities and well-preserved ruins as well as miles of Mediterranean beaches in the north to complement cheap dates and intricately detailed Ghardaia carpets. With over four-fifths of the land covered by the Sahara Desert, you had better learn a bit about ‘desert ships’ before coming.
Algeria, the largest country in Africa, is a land of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the Mediterranean coastline to the vast Sahara Desert, Algeria offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The country is a treasure trove of ancient Roman ruins, Islamic architecture, and French colonial heritage, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike. Key highlights include the Roman cities of Timgad and Djemila, the ancient city of Ghardaia, and the stunning rock formations of Tassili n’Ajjer.
The demise of tourism in Algeria means that you can enjoy traveling around the country relatively cheaply. If you are looking for comfort, there are international hotel chains in Algiers and some good beach resorts along the coast. The Algerians may be a bit cold towards you if you are American, step inside one of their mosques with shoes on or strut about in a low cut bikini as you shop, but generally, they are a friendly bunch pending you show appropriate respect and don’t complain about couscous for dinner again.
The capital city, Algiers, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and historic Casbah, offers a blend of old and new. Oran is famous for its lively music scene and Mediterranean charm, while Constantine captivates with its dramatic gorges and bridges. Algeria’s rich cultural tapestry is reflected in its cuisine, music, and traditional crafts, offering visitors a deep dive into the heart of North African culture.
Algeria spans a vast area in North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Sahara Desert to the south. The country’s terrain includes coastal plains, mountain ranges such as the Atlas and Ahaggar, and expansive desert regions. The northern region, known for its fertile valleys and Mediterranean climate, contrasts sharply with the arid and rugged landscapes of the south.
Northern Algeria is characterized by its Mediterranean coastline, fertile plains, and significant urban centers. This region includes the capital city, Algiers, known for its historical sites and vibrant culture. Coastal cities like Oran and Annaba offer beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and lively markets.
Central Algeria, dominated by the Atlas Mountains, is home to several key historical sites and cities. The region features the ancient Roman ruins of Tipasa and the beautiful Chrea National Park. The climate here varies from Mediterranean to more arid conditions as one moves south.
Eastern Algeria features cities like Constantine, known for its dramatic gorges and ancient bridges. This region also includes the Roman ruins of Timgad and Djemila, set amidst picturesque mountainous landscapes. Annaba, another key city, boasts beautiful coastal scenery and the ancient ruins of Hippo Regius.
Western Algeria includes the vibrant city of Oran, famous for its music scene and Mediterranean beaches. The region is also home to the historic city of Tlemcen, known for its Islamic architecture and cultural heritage. The fertile plains and coastal areas here support a variety of agricultural activities.
Southern Algeria is dominated by the vast Sahara Desert, offering dramatic landscapes and unique cultural experiences. The region includes the M’zab Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its distinctive architecture and traditional communities. The Ahaggar Mountains and Tassili n’Ajjer are also located here, providing stunning natural scenery and prehistoric rock art.
What’s Cool
Ancient Roman ruins like Timgad and Djemila, stunning Mediterranean coastline, vibrant cultural scene in Algiers and Oran, dramatic landscapes of the Sahara Desert, unique rock formations in Tassili n’Ajjer, rich Berber heritage, beautiful mosques and palaces, vibrant souks, traditional Algerian cuisine, historic city of Constantine with its bridges, music festivals in Oran.
What’s Not
Political instability, security concerns in certain areas, limited tourist infrastructure, language barrier (primarily Arabic and French), travel restrictions in some regions, bureaucratic hurdles for visas, underdeveloped public transportation, inconsistent road conditions, hot and dry climate in the summer, limited availability of international cuisine.
Where to Go
Highlights
- Timimoun: an enchanting oasis town located on an escarpment with wonderful views over a salt lake and sandy dunes.
- El-Oued: known as the ‘town of a thousand domes’ thanks to most of the buildings here having domes to keep out the summer heat, El-Oued is famous for its carpets and daily souq in the old part of the town.
- Algiers: the capital, famous for its whitewashed buildings, historic Casbah, and beautiful coastal views - may not be the beautiful city it once used to be, but there are impressive ruins and monuments to visit. Mind you don’t get lost in the maze of alleyways, mosques, medersas, casbahs and Turkish houses and palaces or you may miss the country’s other sights.
- Tlemcen: this former imperial city is located in the foothills of the Tellian Atlas Mountains and provides some pleasant respite from the summer heat. Visit the Grand Mosque, Almohad Ramparts and Mansourah Fortress.
- El Goléa: otherwise called ‘the pearl of the desert’, El Goléa is different to most people’s idea of an oasis due to the abundant vegetation and water. The preserved ruins of the Old Fort (Ksar) are the highlight, as is the sight of greenery, or is it just a mirage?
- Timgad: An ancient Roman city known for its well-preserved ruins, including a grand arch, theater, and basilica, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman urban planning.
- Djemila: Another ancient Roman city with impressive ruins set amidst a picturesque mountainous landscape, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Roman Empire.
- Tassili n’Ajjer: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique rock formations and prehistoric rock art, offering a journey into the ancient history of human civilization.
Top Cities
- algiers: The capital city, known for its historic Casbah, beautiful coastal views, and cultural scene, offering a mix of old and new.
- oran: A lively port city famous for its music, historic sites, and stunning Mediterranean views, providing a cultural hub of western Algeria.
- constantine: Known as the “City of Bridges” for its dramatic gorges and numerous bridges, offering stunning views and historical sites.
- annaba: A coastal city with beautiful beaches and the ancient ruins of Hippo Regius, providing a mix of natural beauty and historical significance.
- ghardaia: A historic city in the M’zab Valley, known for its unique architecture and vibrant markets, providing a glimpse into traditional Algerian life.
Islands & Beaches
- sidi-fredj: A popular beach resort near Algiers with sandy beaches and clear waters, offering a relaxing coastal escape.
- bejaia: Known for its stunning coastline and the beautiful Cap Carbon, providing both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- tipasa: A coastal town with Roman ruins and beautiful beaches, offering a mix of history and coastal relaxation.
National Parks
- tassili-najjer-national-park: Known for its unique rock formations, prehistoric rock art, and stunning desert landscapes, offering a journey into the ancient history of human civilization.
- ahaggar-national-park: Features dramatic mountains, including Mount Tahat, the highest peak in Algeria, providing stunning natural scenery.
- chrea-national-park: Located in the Atlas Mountains, known for its diverse flora and fauna and scenic hiking trails, providing a natural escape.
- el-kala-national-park: A coastal park with rich biodiversity, including wetlands, forests, and marine life, offering a haven for nature enthusiasts.
- djurdjura-national-park: Known for its rugged mountains, caves, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, providing an adventurous experience.
When to Go
Algeria is hot year-round, with the only rain falling in the north of the country. Winter is the best time to visit, when the Saharan regions are somewhat cooler. Summer temperatures can be unbearable and sandstorms frequent.
Things to Do
Beaches: it’s hardly the Maldives, but Algeria does have some reasonable beaches such as Zeralda or those on the Sidi Fredj peninsula. Resort facilities exist and there are many water sports and leisure activities to choose from. The Turquoise Coast has rocky coves and long beaches, and is within easy reach of Algiers.
Trekking: some good routes exist in the Hoggar Mountains and most people use Tamanrasset as a base. It is a large town with reasonable facilities and is a popular winter holiday resort.
Car treks: for a bit of adventure, take an organized tour through the Saharan region of Ténéré. Four-wheel drive vehicles are provided along with mattresses and food. Worth considering just for the bragging rights when you return home!
Shopping: carpets are among the many items worth purchasing in the larger towns.
Getting There
Algiers International Airport is 12 miles east of the city and there are frequent flights with many European countries. It’s possible to reach Algeria by train from Tunisia, but you will have to change trains at the border. Ferries operate from Spanish, French and Italian ports. Frequent domestic flights connect to the major business centres of Annaba, Constantine and Oran. A bus and train service is another option, but is not as safe.
Health & Safety
If you are scared of the dark, get ready for frequent power cuts. While not life threatening Algeria’s on-going violence in various parts of the county just might be. You need to plan carefully and take extra precautions, as the risks are higher than normal. Overland travel between major cities should be avoided at night because of illegal roadblocks and the risk of kidnapping.