Things to Do in Algeria

About Algeria

Where the sapphire Mediterranean kisses golden dunes and ancient Berber whispers echo through Roman ruins, Algeria unfolds as North Africa's best-kept secret. This is a land where time moves differently—where the call to prayer drifts over bustling souks in Algiers' Casbah, and nomadic traditions persist beneath star-scattered Saharan skies. Here, French colonial elegance mingles with Islamic architecture, creating cities that feel both familiar and wonderfully foreign. The Hoggar Mountains rise like cathedral spires from endless sand seas, while the Tassili n'Ajjer plateau guards prehistoric art galleries painted on stone canvases. In Algeria, hospitality isn't just custom—it's sacred duty. Mint tea flows freely, conversations stretch into the night, and strangers become friends with a warmth that transcends language barriers. This is where adventure seekers discover hidden oases, culture enthusiasts lose themselves in living history, and every traveler finds their preconceptions beautifully shattered by a country that refuses to be categorized.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book domestic flights early for Sahara destinations like Tamanrasset. Rent 4WD vehicles only through reputable agencies with GPS and emergency equipment. Use official taxi services in cities and always agree on fares beforehand. Train connections exist between major northern cities.

Money: Bring euros or US dollars—credit cards work only in upscale hotels. Exchange money at banks or official bureaux de change for best rates. Keep receipts to exchange remaining dinars before departure, as they're non-convertible outside Algeria.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially at mosques and rural areas—long sleeves and pants recommended. Remove shoes when entering homes. Accept tea offerings graciously. Avoid photographing people without permission and never photograph military or government buildings.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice cubes. Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover. Street food is generally safe in popular areas. Try local specialties like couscous and tagines but avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits initially.

When to Visit

Algeria's diverse geography creates distinct seasonal experiences across its regions. Spring (March-May) offers ideal conditions with temperatures ranging 18-25°C (64-77°F) along the coast and perfect Sahara weather before summer heat arrives. Autumn (September-November) provides similarly pleasant conditions with temperatures of 20-28°C (68-82°F) and minimal rainfall (under 50mm monthly). These seasons represent peak tourist periods with accommodation prices 40-60% higher than off-season rates. Winter (December-February) brings cooler coastal temperatures (10-18°C/50-64°F) and occasional rain, but remains excellent for Sahara exploration. Prices drop 30-50% during this period. Summer (June-August) sees scorching temperatures reaching 45°C (113°F) in desert regions, though coastal areas remain more manageable at 25-32°C (77-90°F). Summer offers the lowest prices, down 50-60% from peak season. Key festivals include Eid al-Fitr (dates vary with lunar calendar), Independence Day (July 5th), and various Berber New Year celebrations (January 12th). Spring and autumn suit most travelers, while winter appeals to budget-conscious visitors and Sahara enthusiasts. Summer works for coastal travelers who don't mind heat and crowds seeking maximum savings.