Algeria Travel Guide

Basic Information

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Travel Status

• Travel Advisory: Exercise caution because some areas near the borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania remain unsafe due to terrorism and banditry.
• Visa Requirement: Most travelers need a visa, obtained through Algerian embassies. Visa-free entry is available only for a few neighboring countries.
• Entry Points: Houari Boumediene Airport (Algiers) is the main international gateway. Overland entry is possible from Tunisia and Morocco (though the Moroccan border is currently closed).

Safety and Security

Human Rights and Local Conditions

• Algeria is a republic with limited press freedom and strong state control over media.
• Women’s rights are improving, but gender inequality still exists, especially outside major cities.
• LGBTQ+ activity is criminalized and socially unacceptable.
• Religion plays a central role; Islam is the state religion, and public behavior should reflect local customs.

Health & Medical

• Recommended Vaccines: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies, and Routine vaccines.
• Water Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water.
• Medical Facilities: Good in Algiers and Oran, limited in rural areas.
• Emergency Numbers:

• • Police: 17

  • Fire: 14

  • Ambulance: 3030

Currency and Money

Transportation

• Air: Domestic flights connect Algiers to major cities like Oran, Constantine, and Tamanrasset.
• Rail: A decent rail network links northern cities.
• Road: Reliable between major cities; desert routes require preparation.
• Taxis: Common but negotiate fares in advance.
• Car Rental: Possible in cities with an international driving permit.

Communication

Weather and Climate

Cultural Tips

• Dress modestly because in Algeria conservative clothing is expected, especially for women.
• Avoid discussing politics, religion, or the civil war period.
• During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during the day is considered disrespectful.
• When greeting, a handshake or slight nod is common; men may exchange kisses on the cheek if close friends.
• Always remove shoes before entering someone’s home.

Quick Facts

• Religion: Islam (official; nearly all citizens are Muslim)
• Major Cities: Algiers, Oran, Constantine, Annaba, Tlemcen
• National Symbol: The crescent and star on the Algerian flag
• UNESCO Sites: Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad, Tipasa, Kasbah of Algiers, M’Zab Valley
• Emergency Evacuation Insurance: Recommended for travelers venturing beyond major cities

Fun but Surprising Facts

• Algeria is Africa’s largest country by land area.
• The Sahara Desert covers more than 80% of its territory.
• The Kasbah of Algiers is one of North Africa’s most beautiful historical quarters.
• Roman ruins in Tipasa and Timgad are among the best-preserved in the world.
• French is widely spoken, even though Arabic and Berber are the official languages.

 

Top Attractions to Visit in Algeria

Algiers (The Casbah)

Wander through the maze-like Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with narrow alleys, Ottoman palaces, and views of the Mediterranean. Don’t miss the Ketchaoua Mosque and the Martyrs’ Memorial.

Roman Ruins of Timgad

Nicknamed the “Pompeii of Africa,” Timgad is one of North Africa’s best-preserved Roman cities, with a grand arch, forum, and baths that reveal the glory of ancient Rome.

Constantine (The City of Bridges)

Built dramatically on cliffs connected by bridges, Constantine is one of Algeria’s most striking cities. The Sidi M’Cid Bridge and suspension walkways offer stunning views of deep gorges.

Sahara Desert (Taghit and Djanet)

Vast golden dunes, ancient rock art, and desert oases define Algeria’s Sahara. Visit Taghit for sandboarding or Djanet to explore the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park.

Oran

Algeria’s second-largest city blends history and music. Stroll the seafront, visit Santa Cruz Fort, and feel the Andalusian rhythm that inspired the famous Rai music.

Ghardaïa (M’zab Valley)

A UNESCO-listed oasis town where traditional architecture and Berber culture thrive. The valley’s desert scenery and unique layout make it a photographer’s dream.

Annaba (Basilica of St. Augustine)

A coastal city known for its beaches and the Basilica of St. Augustine, built near the site where the saint once lived and preached.

Tlemcen

Rich in Islamic art and history, Tlemcen is home to ancient mosques, ornate architecture, and nearby waterfalls in El-Ourit.