Algeria is the largest country on the African continent and the 10th largest country in terms of total area. Located in North Africa, one of the main tourist attractions is the Sahara, the second largest desert in the world.
Some sand dunes can reach 180 meters in height This State has been a member of the World Tourism Organization since 1976, but tourism in Algeria i report of the World Tourism Organization published in 2014.
Algeria is the 4th tourist destination in Africa in 2013 with 2,7 million foreign tourists, and ranks 111st on the international tourism scene, according to the London-based World Tourism and Travel Council.
The tourism sector in Algeria accounts for 3.9% of the volume of exports, 9.5% of the productive investment rate and 8.1% of the Gross Domestic Product.
Algeria has a diverse landscape and lots to offer travellers. The journey from Europe is only a short one but the difference between the two continents is immediately noticeable and provides a sense of adventure and intrigue for tourists.
Algeria has many charming cities with winding streets and stunning architecture, Mediterranean coast, lush landscapes and roman ruins to rival anywhere in the world.
The main attraction in the country however is the Saharan region where the never-ending sand and the mysterious and lively cities are enough to indulge even the most seasoned traveller’s imagination. Despite advise about the country not being safe to travel and certain regions being off limits.
Most Algerians greet tourists with warm welcomes and are happy to share their way of life with any guests to their country. All the same, any trip to this beautiful country should be well researched to ensure that all travel rules are adhered with.
Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Algeria!
Algiers
This is the capital city in Algeria and has an estimated population of around 3,500,000. The city was founded by the Ottomans and is rife with history and beautiful architecture.
The ancient Casbah is a winding urban maze, with streets flowing through the old town like streams. Also worth exploring is the Dar Hassan Pacha, which was once the city’s most decedent mansion.
The interior of the house has been under renovation since 2005 and is unfortunately closed to the public. The city of Algiers offers visitors from the west a stark and beautiful contrast and an intriguing glimpse into the past, present and future of Algeria.
Ahaggar National Park
Although difficult to reach without your own transport, the Atakor Plateau, situated in the Ahaggar National Park, is worth any of the effort or inconvenience. The landscape is a red-brown dry landscaped dotted with harsh sheer peaks.
The terrain is like something straight out of a sci-fi flick and is a sight that will stick with you for a long time. The highlight of the plateau is the Assekrem Peak.
Assekrem in the Tuareg language means “the end of the world” which is a fitting way to describe the view from the peak and the rugged harshness of the landscape.
Tamanrasset
Sometimes referred to as ‘Tam’ is a modern and lively town that you will find if you travel south through Algeria towards Niger. Tam has everything you might expect from a modern town including a number of shops, restaurants, banks and travel amenities.
The town is a great base for exploring the Ahaggar National Park whilst retaining comforts of a well-equipped town. For various reasons, the town is considered unsafe to visit at present and it is only possible to visit as part of a fully guided tour.
Proof of a guided tour must be provided upon arrival in the town. Although this is currently a requirement it is not necessarily a bad things as it improves the safety of visitors and several fun excursions such a 4×4 tours are often included.
Oran
This is the second city of Algeria; it is a lively port city with heaps of character and beauty. Oran is an attraction in its own right and has historical buildings a plenty to explore including beautiful mosques, the Casbah and Le Theatre.
The range of beautiful architecture is possibly the best of any city in Algeria. Oran is also a great place for scuba diving, sampling Algerian cuisine and listening to lively Rai music which has its origins in the city.
Despite many positive reasons to visit the city there are also many signs of the country’s political troubles in the 90s are visible in Oran. The city filled novelist Albert Camus with so much dread that he based his novel ‘The Plague’ here.
Annaba
There were many geographical reasons for the Phoenicians to found Annaba that are still apparent today and are the reason for the cities relative prosperity.
The city has a natural port which handles many of the country’s exports but for travellers, the city’s history and culture, especially Hippo Regius, is the main attraction.
The ruins of Hippo Regius are surrounded by olive trees on one side and the sea on the other. The ruins include mosaics, bronze trophies and ruins of villas and temples.
Constantine
This is a natural marvel that has transformed over the years into a stunning spot for tourists. The city was the Capital of Numidia and after that Roman Numidia and it goes without saying that politics and power have always played a part here.
The majority of buildings in the city can only be reached by crossing the bridge across a large canyon. This gives the city a feeling of fantasy that has been retained since the time of the Romans.
Despite the unique way the city looks, and it’s astonishing history, there is not much to see here in terms of attraction and tourists may find that a couple of days here is enough.
Ghardaia
This is part of a five town cluster right on the edge of the Sahara Desert but is also the name often used to refer to the entire cluster. Ghardaia is almost a country in its own right with its own dress, religion and social traditions.
Guides are required in order to access the beautiful old town or the Sidi Brahim mosque. Food and accommodation here, as in most Algerian cities, varies immensely in price and quality.
If you choose to visit Ghardaia whilst in Algeria you may leave feeling like you have visited more than one country.
Tlemcen Old Town
For stunning Moorish buildings in Algeria there is only one option: Tlemcen. The buildings here can compete in beauty with those in Southern Spain or Morocco. The town was important for the Romans but sadly not much evidence has survived from those times.
Sights include the Great Mosque, the Eiffel Bridge and waterfalls in the nearby National Park of Tlemcen. Tlemcen has its sights firmly set on the future and is currently in the process of building what will be the largest university campus in the country.
Setif
Another of Algeria’s cities which was founded by the Romans, Setif is situated in the Little Kabylie region of Algeria and is over 1,100 meters above sea level. The roman ruins here are well worth taking time to study.
In addition to the Romans, the French have also left their mark on the city. Sights in the city include the main square with its Roman sculptures.
Tourists are a fairly rare sight in this city which for some may be a reason to visit and see the ‘real Algeria’ far from the beaten track but it does have its disadvantages and western tourists should exercise caution.
El Oued
Intriguingly nicknamed ‘the city of a thousand domes’, El Oued is an oasis of a city in what seems to be an endless sea of sand. The reason for the nickname comes from the many domed roofs on buildings in the city.
The reason for the domes is protection from the intense heat from the sun in summer. One of the main reasons tourists visit El Oued is to shop, the city is arguably the best place for shoppers in the country.
Popular items include carpets and affanes (traditional Algerian slippers). Do not even think about entering the market unless you intend to barter like a local to get the best bargain. The souqs can get busy especially on a Friday.
Djanet
This almost looks like a Mediterranean town with its white buildings and blue roofs but it is in fact the main town in the Tassili region of Algeria. Set in a palm tree oasis, the town feels almost tropical.
The town is picturesque but has a very small centre with only a post office, bank and a handful of restaurants and shops. The town bursts into life at the weekend as French tourists arrive to experience the peacefulness and exotic surroundings on offer in Djanet.
Batna
This is not far from Constantine but it feels entirely different. Separated from Constantine by harsh salt flats, Batna is the capital of the Aurus Massif, a region of Algeria made up from a continuation of the Atlas Mountains.
Batna’s history is nowhere near as extensive as some of the cities in Algeria and has only existed since a decree in 1848 signed by Napoleon III.
Due to its location in a valley, the summers are very hot and the winters very cold. There is a lively student scene here due to the city’s population of over 30,000 students.
Timgad
Only 40km away from Batna but a different attraction entirely, Timgad is the expensive ruins of an entire Roman town. The ruins are a little overwhelming at first but reward those that take the time to explore every row and road.
There is an entrance fee but it is well worth it for what is arguably one of the most stunning Roman ruin sites in the world. Nothing else in Algeria will prepare you for the vastness of the Roman ruins in Timgad.
City Gate, In Salah
In Salah owes its name to its famous (or perhaps infamous) salty water. The water is an acquired taste and is often the only type of drinking water available so come prepared with your own stash if you prefer the none salty variety.
The buildings are Sudanese in style and the mosque with In Salah is slowly being encroached by a moving sand dune. The dune moves at a rate of 1m every five years and as it devours one building it often reveals another that has been under the sand for some time.
Bejaia
This is situated on Algeria’s Mediterranean coastline and this is the city’s primary attraction for tourists. The history of the city is expansive and has been settled by the Vandals, Byzantines and Ottoman Turks. The museum in the city has various artefacts to prove this turbulent history.
In addition to the museum there is also an impressive Spanish fortress and the so called ‘Monkey Peak’ which is home to the endangered Barbary Macaque monkey.
Top Safari Lodges in Algeria
AZ Hotel Kouba
Featuring free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and a sun terrace, AZ Hotel Kouba offers accommodation in Alger. Each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV. Some units include views of the sea or city.
Each room comes with a private bathroom. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. Free private parking is available on site. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 13 km from the property.
Lamaraz Arts Hotel
Featuring free Wi-Fi and a spa centre, Lamaraz Arts Hotel offers accommodation in Alger. Guests can relax in the lounge. Free private parking is available on site. Each room at this hotel is air conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
Certain rooms feature a seating area where you can relax. You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 12 km from Lamaraz Arts Hotel.
AZ Hotel vieux Kouba
This offers accommodation in Alger. The hotel has a spa centre and hot tub, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. Free private parking is available on site. Each room at this hotel is air conditioned and features a TV. Every room includes a private bathroom.
For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hairdryer. AZ Hotel vieux Kouba features free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 13 km from AZ Hotel vieux Kouba.
City Hotel Alger
This offers accommodation in Alger. Free private parking is available on site. The rooms include a flat-screen TV. Some rooms have views of the sea or city. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom equipped with a shower.
For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hairdryer. City Hotel Alger features free Wi-Fi. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property.
The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 16 km from the property. This property also has one of the best-rated locations in Alger! Guests are happier about it compared to other properties in the area.
Logement Entier F2 Bab Ezzouar
This property is 12 minutes’ walk from the beach. Logement Entier F2 Bab Ezzouar is set in Bab Ezzouar. The accommodation has free Wi-Fi. The apartment features 2 bedrooms, a TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with a fridge and a stovetop, and a bathroom with a bath.
A car rental service is available at the apartment. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 5 km from Logement Entier F2 Bab Ezzouar.
Az Hotel Vague d’Or
Offering a spa centre and hot tub, Az Hotel Vague d’Or is located in Alger. Free private parking is available on site. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Each room at this hotel is air conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
Some rooms feature a seating area to relax in after a busy day. Certain rooms include views of the sea or city. Every room comes with a private bathroom fitted with a shower. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hairdryer.
Az Hotel Vague d’Or features free Wi-Fi throughout the property. You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 34 km from Az Hotel Vague d’Or.
Studio El Qods
Situated in Cheraga, Studio El Qods offers air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free Wi-Fi. This apartment features barbecue facilities.
This apartment comes with a kitchenette, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and a bathroom with a shower. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 24 km from the property.
Appartement Dans Immeuble Haussmanien
This is set in Alger and offers a shared lounge. Guests staying at this apartment have access to a fully equipped kitchen. This air-conditioned 2-bedroom apartment includes 1 bathroom fitted with a shower. There is a bathroom with free toiletries.
The apartment offers a sun terrace. A car rental service is available at Appartement Dans Immeuble Haussmanien. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 17 km from the accommodation.
Résidence TAJAMI
Set in Ghardaïa, Résidence TAJAMI has a garden. Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property offers a shared lounge. A buffet breakfast is served every morning at the property.
AZ Hotel Zeralda
Offering a terrace and spa centre, AZ Hotel Zeralda is located in Zeralda in the Algiers Province Region. Free private parking is available on site. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV. All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom fitted with a bath or shower.
AZ Hotel Zeralda features free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 33 km from AZ Hotel Zeralda.
Le Meridien Oran Hotel
This property is 1 minute walk from the beach. Located in the city of Oran, Le Meridien is situated right on the Mediterranean coast. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and a fitness centre with views of the sea. There is also a selection of restaurant options.
Each air-conditioned room features a modern design, a seating area and a balcony with views of the garden or the sea. There is a flat-screen TV, a minibar and ironing facilities, as well as a private bathroom with a bathtub and free toiletries.
Guests can enjoy Italian specialities at the Favola or gastronomic dishes at Latest Recipe. They can relax at Latitude 35, a bar with a terrace which looks out onto the sea. Le Meridien also provides a concierge service, a business and conference centre and currency exchange on site.
Oran International Airport is a 15-minute drive away. Ahmed Zabana Museum is 2 km from the hotel and the Promenade de Ibn Badis is at 3 km. Free private parking is available at the hotel. We speak your language!
Residence rytaj
Set in Bordj el Kiffan in the Algiers Province region, Residence rytaj has a balcony and garden views. This apartment also features free Wi-Fi.
This air-conditioned apartment is fitted with 3 bedrooms, a satellite flat-screen TV, a dining area, and a kitchen. The bathroom comes with a bath. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 6 km from the property. We speak your language!
El Bey
Boasting a terrace and free Wi-Fi, El Bey is located in Constantine. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom. The property has a restaurant. All rooms at the hotel come with a seating area.
Guest rooms at El Bey feature air conditioning and a desk. A à la carte breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. Speaking Arabic and Italian at the 24-hour front desk, staffs are ready to help around the clock.
Blueprint
This is situated in Ziama Mansouria. This apartment features a garden. This apartment is fitted with a living room and a fully equipped kitchen. A flat-screen TV is provided. We speak your language!
Protea Hotel Constantine
Its accommodation features a concierge service and room service for guests. At the hotel, the rooms are fitted with a desk and a flat-screen TV. All rooms will provide guests with a fridge.
This property also has one of the best-rated locations in Constantine! Guests are happier about it compared to other properties in the area.
Apert.confort.CHERAGA
Located in Cheraga in the Algiers Province region, Apert.confort.CHERAGA features a garden. This apartment offers a terrace, a shared lounge as well as free Wi-Fi. With 3 bedrooms, this apartment has a balcony, a living room and a flat-screen TV.
The apartment also offers a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a seating area, as well as a bathroom with a bidet and a shower.
The reception can provide advice on the area in order to help guests plan their day. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 27 km from the apartment.
Carnot Id Appart
This property is 18 minutes’ walk from the beach. Carnot Id Appart is set in Alger. Guests may enjoy the free Wi-Fi. This air-conditioned apartment is fitted with a bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. There is a dining area and a kitchen equipped with an oven.
With staff speaking English and French, information is available at the reception. The apartment offers a sun terrace. A car rental service is available at Carnot Id Appart. Houari Boumediene Airport is 19 km away. We speak your language!
Soltane Hotel
This is situated in Alger. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk. Guests can have a cocktail at the bar. At the hotel, rooms are fitted with a desk, a TV and a private bathroom.
The units are fitted with a seating area. A continental breakfast is served each morning at the property. The nearest airport is Houari Boumediene Airport, 12 km from Soltane Hotel.
Clean Hotel
This is a 3-star property located in Blida. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
At the hotel, all rooms include a desk. Guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge. They include a private bathroom fitted with shower. A continental breakfast is served every morning at the property.
Appartement djawad
This offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free Wi-Fi. Guests staying at this apartment have access to a fully equipped kitchen. The apartment comes with a satellite flat-screen TV.
