Algeria Travel Information

Algeria, located in North Africa, is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From ancient ruins to bustling cities, Algeria has plenty to offer for both history buffs and adventure seekers. Here are the top 10 things to do in Algeria.

1. Visit the ruins of Djemila

Djemila, also known as Cuicul, is a well-preserved ancient Roman city located in the northern part of Algeria. The city is home to several impressive ruins, including a theater, a triumphal arch, and a forum.

2. Explore the Casbah of Algiers

The Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow alleys and winding streets that make up the old town of Algiers. It is home to historic buildings, mosques, and vibrant markets.

3. Hike in the Tassili n'Ajjer National Park

Tassili n'Ajjer National Park, located in southeastern Algeria, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most stunning natural attractions in the country. It features impressive rock formations, canyons, and sand dunes.

4. Discover the ancient city of Timgad

Timgad is an ancient Roman city located in eastern Algeria. It is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa and features a well-preserved theater, forum, and triumphal arch.

5. Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts

The National Museum of Fine Arts in Algiers is home to a collection of contemporary and modern Algerian art. It features works by some of the country's most prominent artists, including Baya, M'hamed Issiakhem, and Mohamed Khadda.

6. Experience the beauty of the Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert covers a large part of Algeria and offers visitors the opportunity to experience some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. Visitors can take a camel trek, go sandboarding, or simply watch the sunset over the dunes.

7. See the ancient city of Tipasa

Tipasa is an ancient Roman city located on the Mediterranean coast of Algeria. It features impressive ruins, including a theater, a basilica, and a triumphal arch.

8. Visit the Palace of the Raïs

The Palace of the Raïs, located in Algiers, is a historic building that was once the residence of the Ottoman rulers of Algeria. Today, it is a museum that showcases the country's Ottoman heritage.

9. Relax on the beaches of the Mediterranean

Algeria's Mediterranean coast is home to several beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some of the best beaches include Sidi Fredj, Zeralda, and Les Andalouses.

10. Explore the Constantine bridges

The city of Constantine is home to several impressive bridges, including the Sidi M'Cid Bridge, which is one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. Visitors can take a walk across the bridges and enjoy stunning views of the city.

Algeria has a diverse climate due to its vast size and varied topography. The country experiences hot summers and mild winters, with rainfall varying depending on the region. Here is a breakdown of the climate and the best time to visit Algeria.

Climate

• Coastal areas: The coastal areas of Algeria have a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The average temperature in summer is around 30°C, while in winter, it is around 15°C.
• Desert areas: The desert areas of Algeria have a hot, arid climate with very little rainfall. The temperature can rise up to 50°C during the day and drop below freezing at night.
• Mountain areas: The mountainous regions of Algeria have a cool, temperate climate with snowfall in the winter months. The temperature in the summer is around 25°C, while in the winter, it can drop to -10°C.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Algeria depends on the region you plan to visit.

• Coastal areas: The best time to visit the coastal areas of Algeria is between April and October when the weather is sunny and warm. The summer months of July and August can be very crowded.
• Desert areas: The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is between November and February when the temperature is cooler and more bearable. However, it's important to note that the temperature can still drop significantly at night, so bring warm clothing.
• Mountain areas: The best time to visit the mountainous regions of Algeria is between May and October when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, it's important to note that some roads may be closed due to snowfall in the winter months.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are plenty of hotels in Algeria, ranging from budget to luxury options. Most major cities and tourist destinations have a good selection of hotels. Popular international chains, such as Sheraton and Hilton, also have a presence in Algeria.

Hostels

Hostels are a popular option for budget travelers in Algeria. They offer shared dormitory rooms and sometimes private rooms at a lower cost than hotels. Hostels are a good option for backpackers or travelers on a tight budget.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular choice for travelers who want a more local experience. They are often small, family-run businesses that offer a more personal touch. Guesthouses can range from basic to more luxurious options.

Airbnb

Airbnb is also available in Algeria, offering a range of options from private rooms to entire apartments and villas. This can be a good option for those who want to experience local life and have more space to themselves.

Camping

Camping is a popular option for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Algeria. Many national parks and natural reserves have campsites, and wild camping is allowed in some areas. It's important to be aware of local rules and regulations regarding camping.

Riads

Riads are traditional Moroccan-style houses that can be found in some parts of Algeria. They offer a unique and luxurious accommodation experience with a focus on traditional architecture and design. Riads are usually located in the historic parts of cities and towns.

Apartment rentals

Apartment rentals are another option for travelers who want more space and privacy. They are available in many major cities in Algeria and can be a good option for families or groups of friends traveling together.

Taxis

Taxis are a popular way to get around in Algeria, particularly in the cities. There are two types of taxis: official and unofficial. Official taxis have a meter, while unofficial taxis do not. It's important to negotiate the fare before getting into an unofficial taxi.

Buses

Buses are a common form of public transportation in Algeria. They are an affordable option for getting around the cities and towns, and also for traveling between different regions. However, the buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, particularly during peak travel times.

Trains

Algeria has a well-developed railway network that connects major cities and towns. The trains are comfortable and affordable, with different classes of service available. The train journey can be a great way to see the countryside and experience local life.

Car rentals

Renting a car is a good option for travelers who want more flexibility and independence. Car rental agencies can be found at the major airports and in some cities. However, it's important to note that driving in Algeria can be challenging, particularly for those who are not used to the local driving conditions.

Shared taxis

Shared taxis are a common form of transportation in Algeria, particularly in the rural areas. They are usually older cars that can fit up to six passengers. Shared taxis can be a good option for those traveling shorter distances or on a tight budget.

Motorcycles and scooters

Motorcycles and scooters are available for rent in some parts of Algeria. This can be a good option for those who want to explore the countryside and enjoy the scenery. However, it's important to note that the roads in Algeria can be in poor condition, and traffic can be chaotic.

Domestic flights

For those traveling long distances or with limited time, domestic flights are a good option. Air Algeria is the national carrier, offering flights to most major cities and towns. The flights are comfortable and convenient, but can be expensive compared to other forms of transportation.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.