Guide to Algeria

Algeria (Arabic: الجزائر, al-Jazāʾir; Algerian Arabic: الدزاير, al-dzayir; Berber: ⴷⵣⴰⵢⴻⵔ, dzayer; French: Algérie) is the largest country in Africa. Overlooked by many travellers, the country is bursting with beauty waiting to be discovered. From the bustling markets of Algiers to the pristine beaches of its Mediterranean coast, from the jaw-droppingly beautiful mountains of the north to the mesmerising deep reaches of the Sahara desert to the south, there is something for almost everyone to explore. Enjoy traditional cuisine, explore the ancient ruins, take in the breathtaking views, and then breathe in a world where few travellers tread. Algeria, and in particular Algerian hospitality, will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

• Algiers (Arabic: الجزائر) — The capital of Algeria, and the nation's political and cultural center. It is a vibrant and multicultural city, with a mix of French, Arab, and African influences. The city is well known for its beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife.
• Annaba (Arabic: عنّابة) — a town with 200,000 inhabitants in the east of the country next to the border of Tunisia.
• Batna (Arabic: باتنة) — the main city and commune of Batna Province, Algeria. With a population of 340,000, it is the fifth largest city in Algeria. It is also one of the principal cities of the Chaoui area and is considered the capital of Aurès.
• Bechar (Arabic: بشار) — small city in the Sahara, not far from the Moroccan border.
• Constantine (Arabic: قسنطينة) — Algeria's 3rd largest city with a canyon going down through it. Also known as "city of bridges" for having a lot of impressive and beautiful bridges.
• Oran (Arabic: وَهران) — Algeria's 2nd largest city after Algiers, also called "second Paris" or "Rai city " by Algerians, with many impressive buildings from colonial times and also being popular for making quality rai songs
• Sétif (Arabic: سطيف) — the trade capital of Algeria, Setif El-Ali (The High) is the capital of high plateaus, with quite moderate temperatures and occasional snow falls in the winter.
• Tamanrasset (Arabic: تامنراست) — largest town in the south and starting point for expeditions to the Sahara and the Hoggar Mountains.
• Timimoun (Arabic: ﺗﻴﻤﻴﻤﻮن) — a small Saharan oasis town which makes a good base for trips to the desert.

• Djémila – Roman ruins
• El-Oued with its domed architecture, and nearby Grand Erg Oriental, the Sahara's second largest dune field
• Hippo Regius, 2 km south of Annaba, an ancient Numidian city and early center of Christianity with well preserved Roman baths and forum
• M'zab Valley – fantastic architecture
• Tassili n'Ajjer – a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Sahara desert
• Timgad – Timgad was a Roman city in the Aurès Mountains of Algeria

Politics and government

Algeria is officially known as the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria. Although the term "People's Republic" is commonly associated with communist states, Algeria is not a communist country. The term was adopted primarily because Algeria gained its independence through a revolutionary struggle against France.

Algeria is a multi-party republic with a strong executive branch led by a president. The president is both the head of state and the commander in chief of the army, and is elected by popular vote for a five-year term.

Legislative power is vested in the two chambers of Parliament, the Council of the Nation and the People's National Assembly.

Geography

Algeria covers an area of 2381741 km2 sqmi 0, making it the world's tenth-largest country and the largest country in Africa. It is slightly larger than Mexico, four times smaller than the United States, and nearly 200 times larger than Africa's smallest country, Gambia. Algeria has diverse terrain, with the Mediterranean coast, the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara.

Algeria is made up of 58 provinces and more than 1,541 communities.

History

Early history

The history of Algeria can be traced back to the earliest civilisations that inhabited the region and beyond. The earliest known inhabitants of Algeria were the Berber people, who have inhabited the region since at least 10,000 BCE. From the 8th century BCE, Phoenician traders established trading posts along the North African coast, introducing the region to the wider Mediterranean world, and were the first to settle Hippo Regius, now Annaba. The subsequent Carthaginian Empire, headquartered in what's now Tunisia, built cities including Leptis Magna. Following the destruction of Carthage by the Romans, Berber kingdoms held sway in Algeria until the Romans took over in the early 1st century CE and in turn built hundreds more cities.

In the 7th century CE, Algeria was conquered by the Islamic Umayyad Caliphate and subsequently came under the rule of various Muslim dynasties. The region was colonised by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century and remained under Ottoman control until 1830.

French Algeria (1830-1962)

French rule in Algeria began in 1830 when France invaded the region, defeated the Ottoman forces, and established a colonial administration. Algeria was formally annexed and split into French departments in 1848.

French authorities introduced a number of reforms, such as land reform, the secularisation of education, and the introduction of new laws and infrastructure. However, these policies were often accompanied by oppressive measures such as forced labor, restrictions on religious expression, and the suppression of opposition.

Algerians were treated very poorly by the French. Algerians were subjected to oppressive laws, such as the Code de l'indigénat, a law which denied them basic rights and freedoms. They were heavily taxed, conscripted into the French military, and stripped of their land and resources. Algerians were also subjected to violence, torture, and other forms of mistreatment by French colonial authorities.

The Algerian War (1954-1962)

The Algerian War for Independence was a bloody eight-year conflict between the French colonial government in Algeria and the National Liberation Front (FLN), a nationalist movement that sought to end French rule and establish an independent Algerian state. The war lasted from 1954 to 1962 and resulted in the death of over a million people, the displacement of over 5 million people, and the eventual independence of Algeria.

The Algerian War for Independence began on 1 November 1954, when the FLN launched a series of attacks against French military and police outposts throughout Algeria. The FLN hoped to spark a popular uprising against French rule, and the attacks were largely successful. The French responded with a massive campaign of repression, employing torture, summary executions, and collective punishments against the population.

The war soon escalated, with the FLN launching guerrilla attacks against French forces, while the French launched counter-insurgency operations that included the use of napalm and other forms of indiscriminate violence. The war was also characterized by atrocities on both sides, including the massacre of civilians by French forces and the use of torture by the FLN.

The war ended in 1962, when the French agreed to a ceasefire and granted Algeria its independence.

Post-war period (1962-1991)

Immediately following independence, the FLN assumed power and established a single-party government. Under the leadership of President Houari Boumediene, Algeria adopted a socialist economic system and sought to strengthen ties with other Arab and African countries.

In the late 1970s, Algeria’s economic situation deteriorated and the government’s popularity declined. In response, the government began to crack down on political dissent and religious expression, leading to an Islamist insurgency.

Algerian Civil War (1991-2002)

The Algerian Civil War, locally known as the Black Decade, was an extremely brutal conflict that caused great suffering to the Algerian people. Over 200,000 people lost their lives in the war, and more than a million were displaced. The conflict also had a lasting effect on Algeria's economy and society, as the country struggled to rebuild after the war. Although the conflict officially ended in 2002, its legacy continues to shape the country.

The background of the conflict was a population explosion in the 1960s and 1970s, economic stagnation, a collapse in the oil income, corruption and a systemic favouring of the French speaking groups. The discontent led to a growing Islamistic movement and violence from both the regime and the opposition. When the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) poised to win a majority of seats in the National Assembly, the military effectively took control of the government, cancelled the 1992 general elections, banned the FIS and started arresting its members, sparking a long and bloody conflict.

The war was fought between the government and various rebel groups, most notably the Armed Islamic Group (GIA) and the Islamic Salvation Army (AIS). The GIA initially sought to overthrow the government and impose an Islamic state. As the conflict progressed, however, they became increasingly brutal and indiscriminate in their tactics, leading to a sharp decline in popular support. The AIS, on the other hand, sought to negotiate with the government for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Present history (2002 - present)

Since the end of the civil war, Algeria has experienced an economic boom due to increased oil and gas production. This has led to a marked reduction in poverty and unemployment.

In 2006, the Algerian government approved a new constitution, which aimed to protect human rights and improve the country’s political and economic situation. This resulted in a period of political reform, as well as an increase in foreign investment.

Despite its economic progress, Algeria is still facing several challenges. These include high unemployment, poverty, and corruption. The country is also struggling with terrorism, with attacks by extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/ISIS/IS).

Electricity

Officially, electricity is 220 V 50 Hz. Outlets are for the continental-European standard CEE-7/7 "Schuko" plug and the compatible ungrounded CEE-7/16 "Europlug".

Algeria is not a country you can just show up to and get in; most visitors require a visa to visit the country and the government hasn't exactly opened up the country to the rest of the world. An Algerian visa requires reams of paperwork and often back-and-forth with consular officials. Merely obtaining one is often an accomplishment in its own right.

Visa requirements

Citizens of Libya, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Western Sahara, Seychelles, and Tunisia can enter the country without a visa for 90 days. Hong Kong passport holders are entitled to 14-day visa free arrangement.

If you're not a citizen of any of the countries listed above, you are required to apply for an Algerian visa at an Algerian diplomatic mission.

Obtaining an Algerian visa can be challenging, as the process often involves heaps of paperwork and high fees. For example, the Algerian Embassy in the United States usually charges US$160 for any kind of Algerian visa and the Algerian consulate in Alicante charges €95 for visas for Spanish citizens staying up to 90 days.

As a general rule of thumb, the longer you intend to stay, the more expensive the visa will be.

Visa application requirements

An Algerian diplomatic mission can be found in almost every country. If your country does not have an Algerian diplomatic mission, you may need to travel to another country to apply for an Algerian visa. Most missions will accept applications by mail so long as you send a prepaid return envelope (be sure to follow the instructions exactly).

Although visa requirements vary from country to country, you're typically asked to submit the following to apply for an Algerian visa:

• A copy of your passport (must have a validity of more than six months)
• Two passport-sized photographs (European size)
• Two visa application forms (fill these out in ALL CAPS on your computer, print them, and then sign/date them with a pen)
• A copy of your travel itinerary (such as entry/exit flight tickets if staying in a single locale, or your full itinerary if traveling within the country)
• A copy of your hotel reservation(s) (note that these must cover the entire length of your stay – a two-day hotel reservation for a 10-day trip will not suffice)
• If you plan to stay in the home of an Algerian resident, then an Algerian-notarized letter of invitation (this also applies if your hotel reservations do not cover your entire length of stay)
• A copy of your most recent bank statement(s)
• Payslips and tax forms proving income are required by some missions (it will not hurt to throw these in to your application regardless)
• Proof of travel insurance is required for citizens of most European countries, but not for most other countries, including the United States
• You must be a resident of the jurisdiction of the consulate to which you apply. You will be required to prove that you are resident of this jurisdiction (for example, a copy of your driver's license)

For a tourist visa, the consulate may hold your passport for 5-9 business days, although longer holds are not unheard of. Note that form-of-payment requirements can be quite strict – for example, a U.S. Postal Service money order and only a U.S. Postal Service money order in the United states – although this will very much depend upon the country in which you are applying.

If this seems burdensome – it is. Moreover, Algerian consular officials can be quite picky. However, don't despair if you require more flexibility in your travel plans. You can achieve this without too much difficulty: most Algerian hotels you can book online require no down payment and are easily canceled; real plane tickets that are automatically canceled after a short period of time can be also be purchased for a small fee (for example, from OnwardTicket.com). Granted, you are taking a bit of risk given the length of time taken to process your visa should they actually verify your tickets (unlikely) – another option is to simply book refundable plane tickets. Use these methods to book a hotel in Algiers covering your length of stay, along with "dummy" or refundable entry/exit flight tickets, and you should be good to go. Remember, the consular officials zealously guard their check boxes, but once you get that precious visa, you're more-or-less free to do as you please.

Special requirements

• Citizens of Syria must demonstrate they have enough funds (1000 EUR if they've been sponsored or 4000 EUR if they have no sponsor) to cover their stay in Algeria.

By plane

Most visitors normally enter Algeria by plane.

The main international airport and point of entry in Algeria is Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), which is situated in Algiers, the capital city. The airport is well-served by intercontinental flights. Regular flights operate from major European cities such as Paris, London, and Madrid. Passengers from the US may need to take a connecting flight, usually through hubs like Paris or Frankfurt. Other airports handling international passengers visiting other regions of Algeria are Oran (ORN) and Constantine (CZL).

When going through immigration, make sure you have your paperwork (Visa, passport and travel itinerary) ready. Be prepared for a rather thorough screening by the immigration official, even if your paperwork is in perfect order. Memorise the answers you gave in your visa paperwork so you can repeat them back verbatim.

By train

The Algerian train company is named SNTF and tickets can be bought at train stations. On-line booking does not appear to be possible any more; timetables are subject to changes; the best way is to ask at the train station. The network in the north is dense. You can reach Algeria by train from Tunisia, although you will have to change trains at the border post. All border points with Morocco are closed.

By car

Algeria shares borders with six countries: Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, and Morocco.

From Tunisia

Driving into Algeria from Tunisia is the safest option.

From Morocco

The Algerian-Moroccan border has been closed since 1994 and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

From Libya

The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the fluid security and political situation in Libya make the Algerian-Libyan border insecure, and the two border posts have been closed since 2011. It is not possible to legally cross from Algeria to Libya by land.

From Mauritania

There is one, new official border crossing (opened February 2024) near Tindouf, which at least some people have had success crossing.

From Mali

The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the unstable political situation in Mali make the Algerian-Malian border incredibly insecure, and it is unlikely foreign tourists would be able to get anywhere close to the border, let alone cross it legally.

From Niger

The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the unstable political situation in Niger make the Algerian-Nigerien border incredibly insecure, and it is unlikely foreign tourists would be able to get anywhere close to the border, let alone cross it legally.

By boat

The prices aren't usually cheaper than flying so if you can and have no car nor any huge amount of baggage, take a plane. Most connections are offered by Algérie Ferries.

From Spain:

• Alicante to Algiers and Oran
• Almeria to Ghazaouet and Oran
• Barcelona to Algiers
• Valencia to Mostaganem

From France:

• Marseille to Algiers, Bejaia, Oran, and Skikda

From Italy:

• Napoli to Tunis & take a road for 1 hour
• Roma (Civitavecchia) to Tunis & take a road for 1 hour

With an area of 2,381,741 km2 sqmi, travelling between major cities in Algeria can take a lot of time and can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.

By plane

Due to the country's immense geography, the most convenient way of travelling long distances is by plane. That said, schedules are more guidelines in Algeria; expect delays.

Algeria has a very small airlines industry ― only four airline companies, all state-owned, operate in the country.

The two main airline companies are as follows:

• Air Algérie is Algeria's national carrier and offers flights to almost any Algerian city. The airline uses Houari Boumediene Airport as its hub.
• Tassili Airlines, like Air Algérie, uses Houari Boumediene Airport as its hub and will take you all over Algeria. It is a subsidiary of Sonatrach, the largest company in Africa and one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world.

By taxi

It's usual to take a taxi to travel near or in cities. The prices are pretty moderate but when travelling between bigger cities with large distances taxis are the same or more expensive as flying. Try to avoid unofficial taxis since it's very likely the driver will rip you off.

Most taxis in Algiers have meters and you should insist on using the meter. The presence of meters in other large cities such as Oran varies. Do not negotiate the price before you enter the taxi, as this will clue the driver in that you have no idea what you are doing and he will invariably scam you on the price. Instead, only negotiate the price once you enter the taxi and determine it has no meter. Tipping is not necessary but you can round up to the next DA10.

Shared taxis, known as “taxi-libre” in Algeria, operate along fixed routes and depart once fully occupied. These taxis provide an economical way to travel and offer opportunities to interact with locals.

By ride-hailing service

Most well-known ride-hailing services such as Uber don't operate in Algeria. Instead you can use:

• Heetch A French app. This is your best bet as a foreigner.
• Yassir An Algerian app

Pickups may not work as smoothly as you're used to. Invariably after accepting a ride the driver will call you to try to coordinate a pickup location (the blue GPS dot on the shared map being untrustworthy for some reason). He will only speak Algerian Arabic. Should you get lucky and manage to actually coordinate a location, be prepared for him to be driving a car entirely different from the one listed in the app. Unless you speak Algerian Arabic, much of this depends on luck, and if you are near your hotel (or frankly any hotel) you're usually better off just asking them to call you a taxi.

By car

The road network is well developed in the north. The Algerian government has made much improvements regarding road building; new highways were built to replace the older roads. The most important highway is the 1200 km long N1 (Route est-ouest) from Annaba to Oran, almost all bigger cities in the north are connected to this highway including Algiers.

A car is not absolutely necessary because of the well run public transportation system, but could be sometimes useful to reach more remote areas. Keep in mind that the driving habits of the locals are completely different compared to those of Europeans and that driving rules and prohibitive signs are more seen as guidelines, even by the police! It would be a wise decision letting a local Algerian do the driving for you in the first few days to get an impression of the driving style. If this is not possible it's recommended to stay on the highways.

Renting a car in Algeria is straightforward. Many rental agencies, both local and international, operate in major cities like Algiers, Oran, and Constantine. It’s wise to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. You’ll typically need a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit (recommended), and a credit card for the deposit.

Do not try to reach the Saharan areas with a car other than a 4x4: occasional dunes on the roads and extreme temperature changes will offer a challenge for the driver and the car. Take a map with you, as GPS may not be available in rural areas.

As of 2018, fuel did not cost more than DA50 a liter.

By bus

Companies providing bus services are ETUSA and SNTR. Cost for buses between major cities vary between DA500-2,000. Local buses are not well-marked. Know that bus toilets are rare and Algerian bus drivers do not like to stop.

By train

Algerian railways are operated by SNTF; the trains and lines are being modernised. Ten comfortable high-speed trains named Autorail were bought, and two of them are in operation. Though the website is useful for checking times etc, tickets can not be bought online, only at the train stations.

If you can, try to catch the newer trains as they are more comfortable and climate-controlled. That said, none of the trains are in great shape. If you’re expecting a romantic journey through the Tell Atlas mountains, you may be disappointed as most of the train windows are so filthy as to render them opaque. Trains in Algeria get you from A to B, and slowly at that, nothing more.

Main routes:

• Algiers to Oran, five daily departures from Agha Station, this journey takes 4-5 hours, 2nd Class: DA900-1130, 1st Class: DA1200-1530.
• Algiers to Annaba, departing each evening at 19:40 and arriving in Annaba (via Constantine) at 05:38 the following morning. 2nd Class: DA900, 1st Class: DA1270.
• Algiers to Constantine as above

Other routes:

• Algiers to Touggourt, departing daily at 18:10, arriving in Touggourt at 05:00 the following morning. 2nd Class: DA1500, 1st Class: DA2005.
• Oran to Bechar, two daily departures. A daytime train leaves Oran at 10:20, while the night-train leaves at 20:30. 2nd Class: DA975, 1st Class: DA1370.
• Annaba to Tebessa, leaving Annaba at 16:40 and arriving in Tebessa at 21:49. 2nd Class: DA255, 1st Class: DA360.

Algeria is brimming with hidden treasures, offering a wealth of sites for the brave and curious.

Ancient ruins

Step back in time and explore the remnants of the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations that have left an indelible mark on the land. Some of the most renowned archaeological sites in Algeria:

• Timgad near Batna: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this ancient Roman city, known as "The Pompeii of Africa." Marvel at the well-preserved ruins.
• Hippo Regius at Annaba: Walk in the footsteps of history at this coastal city where the famous philosopher Saint Augustine once resided. Explore the impressive remains of Roman structures, including a basilica and amphitheater.
• Djémila at Sétif: Delight in the splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site, once a Roman military colony. Admire the well-preserved forum, temples, houses, and stunning mosaic artworks.
• Calama at Guelma: Uncover the secrets of this ancient Roman city, renowned for its exceptional mosaics. Roam through the ruins of temples, basilicas, and the intriguing Roman theater.
• Tipasa: Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry of Tipasa, where ruins from the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine empires coexist. Marvel at the archaeological site, which includes a theater, amphitheater, basilica, and captivating views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Saharan desert

Algeria’s greatest allure lies in its Sahara—a vast, mesmerizing desert unlike anywhere else on Earth. At its center, the M’zab Valley stands out as the heart of Mozabite culture, where five fortified towns rise from the desert in a striking harmony of geometric design. Their cube-like forms inspired modern architecture and remain a vivid testament to human adaptation in a harsh land, though the charm is tempered by visible neglect and litter.

The Saharan Atlas Mountains cut a bold line across the landscape, their rugged peaks shaped by centuries of wind and sand. Farther south, the Hoggar Mountains encircle Tamanrasset, a remote desert capital alive with Tuareg traditions.

The endless dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental near El Oued shimmer under the sun, while ancient rock carvings at Djelfa and Tassili n’Ajjer reveal the Sahara’s prehistoric soul—artworks that bridge millennia and remind visitors of the desert’s deep, enduring past.

Major cities

While Algeria’s great deserts and mountain regions draw much attention, its cities are equally compelling. Algiers, Oran, Constantine, and others reveal the country’s layered identity—French colonial architecture alongside Ottoman palaces, lively modern cafés beside centuries-old mosques. Far from being secondary destinations, these cities stand as living museums of Algeria’s complex history and vibrant contemporary life.

• Algiers, often called the “White City,” is less pristine than the name suggests, yet it remains one of North Africa’s most intriguing capitals. Its steep hillsides are packed with aging colonial buildings overlooking the bay, while the old Casbah—crumbling but alive—retains the tangled layout and spirit of centuries past. Exploring it offers a glimpse into a city that’s gritty, complex, and unmistakably real, where history and daily life still intersect on every street.
• Oran, Algeria’s second city, is gritty and uneven but full of life. Beneath its decay lies a restless energy, with music, bustle, and history centered around the old Santa Cruz Fort overlooking the bay.
• Tlemcen, is known for its rich history and notable architecture, including the Grand Mosque and the remains of the Mansourah Mosque.
• Constantine the “City of Bridges,” is dramatic and weathered rather than polished. Its deep gorges, high spans, and layered architecture reveal traces of Roman, Arab, and Ottoman eras—a striking mix that still defines the city’s rough beauty.

Beaches

Algeria’s long Mediterranean coast has many attractive beaches, though cleanliness and upkeep can vary. Around Oran, the so-called Turquoise Coast offers some of the better stretches for swimming and relaxation. Annaba, Skikda, and Ghazaouet also have scenic spots, while Sidi Fredj near Algiers remains popular for its accessibility and calm waters.

Rock art

Algeria is home to some of the world's most significant and extensive prehistoric rock art. Attractions include Tassili N'Ajjer, a world heritage-listed sandstone plateau as the largest open-air museum in the world, which features over 15,000 paintings and engravings dating from 10,000 BCE to the first centuries CE. The site includes famous depictions like the "Running Horned Woman."

Algeria is full of Roman ruins & 10th-century desert towns. Some of which are:

• Tassili N'Ajjer National park: A national park in southern Algeria with tons of cave arts and dramatic sandstone formation.
• Monument of the martyrs: Iconic monument honoring independence, the people who died for the country, and veterans.
• The church of Nôtre Dame of Africa: a Catholic church with dramatic views in Oran
• Hamma scientific Experiments Park: gracious 19th-century botanical gardens.
• Fortaliza de Santa Cruz: mountaintop fort with scenic city views.
• Ketchaoua Mosque: grand mosque build in 17th-Century.
• Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania: Likely a tomb of an Egyptian princess in Tipaza, Algeria.
• Grand mosque of Algeria: Minarets viewing platform and a huge hall.
• Tikja: Winter ski resort with hiking in the summer. Located in El asnam, Algeria.
• Chrea National Park: Treks and a ski station amid a wooded peaks.
• Algiers Grand Post Office: Grand colonial-era post office.
• Prince Abdel Kader mosque: Landmark mosque with 2 tall minarets.
• Timgad Roman Ruins: Tons of Roman Ruins, Ancient Roman architecture, and ancient history located here.

The official languages of Algeria are Arabic and Berber. Many Algerians are multilingual.

Algerian Arabic (also known as Darja), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by about 75-80% of the population. Algerian Arabic is often considered to be more difficult than other dialects due to its unique features and regional variations. The dialect is used primarily in informal and spoken communication and is not typically used for formal or written communication. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair; all Algerians learn Modern Standard Arabic at school, so you should have no problems communicating in major cities.

Algerian Arabic has a lot of similarities with other Maghrebi dialects, including Tunisian and Moroccan Arabic. If you have some knowledge of Moroccan Arabic, you should have no problems getting by since Moroccan and Algerian Arabic are, to a significant extent, mutually intelligible.

Many Algerians who were born during French colonial rule (prior to the 1960s) are unable to read or write Arabic.

Kabyle is the most commonly spoken Berber language and is primarily spoken in cities such as Bejaia, Bouira, and Boumerdes. Berber was made an official language after major protests in 2002, and the language is taught in Algerian schools.

French, although it has no official status, has been referred to as the "lingua franca" of Algeria. It is taught in Algerian schools from an early age, and it is widely used in everyday business. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name Yasin is transliterated as Yacine. Although many Algerians are competent in French, particularly those older than 35, many Algerians consider the language as a painful reminder of French colonial rule and in schools it is being deprioritized by the government in favor of English. However, this trend is reversed in Kabyle areas, where French is still widely spoken, including by younger people, and people will be happier to hear French than they will to hear Arabic, since in Kabyle areas, Arabic is seen as the "oppressor's language". Regardless of whether you speak French or Arabic in the "wrong" place, if you are a foreign tourist, people will be welcoming regardless of whether you are speaking a "culturally negative" language.

English is gradually gaining popularity as a preferred language for learning, although a significant majority of Algerians have limited to no knowledge of it. Highly educated Algerians may be competent in English. The Algerian government is actively promoting the language, but some, including politicians in France, see this as an attempt to diminish French influence in the country.

If you can't speak Algerian Arabic nor French, then expect to be relying on a lot of hand signals. This might be more fruitful than you think, as Algerians are for the most part extremely friendly and will be very eager to understand what it is you want. Google Translate and other translation apps are rarely of much use. Most officials – police officers, for example – cannot speak French, but they also struggle to read the standard Arabic spat out by your phone, especially for more colloquial conversations. One trick is to ask an AI app, such as ChatGPT, to translate to "Algerian Arabic", which in almost all cases the other party should be able to read, assuming the AI gets it right. If you want to have a conversation back and forth via your phone, be sure to have the Arabic keyboard downloaded and enabled.

Money

Algerian currency is the Algerian dinar, denoted by the symbol "د.ج" or "DA" (ISO code: DZD). There are coins of DA5, DA10, DA20, DA50, DA100 and DA200. Banknotes are issued in denominations of DA100, DA200, DA500, DA1,000 and DA2,000.

Money can be exchanged at banks or post offices, but you will not want to do this. In fact, you will not find normal exchange houses in Algeria, not even at the airport. Although the Algerian dinar has an official exchange rate with the euro and US dollar, this is used exclusively by the government and trading corporations to acquire foreign currency. Everyone else, tourists and Algerians alike, uses the black market exchange rate, which you can consider the real exchange rate.

Current black market rates can be viewed online here. Black market exchange rates to exchange euros will give you roughly 85% more purchasing power (Jan 2026). The parallel market is de facto permitted in Algeria despite being de jure illegal. For instance, the main square for parallel currency exchange in downtown Algiers is done fully under the eyes of a heavy police presence, ensuring safety in the location despite the large volumes of cash changing hands in public. It is perfectly fine to exchange money on the street at the black market rate in Algeria – this is simply how it is done.

Almost every city has set locations where money is exchanged via street-based money changers (including at Algiers airport), and every Algerian will know where you can find them, although frequently they will put you in touch with "their guy", which is fine – you'll get the same rate but their friend will be earning the fee from the spread instead of some stranger. You will struggle to exchange currencies other than US dollars and euros, and the money changers tend to be picky about accepting ripped and older bills, so ensure your bills are crisp and clean. Money changers tend to be honest brokers, as for all intents and purposes this is a legitimate business and given the lack of tourists Algeria has not developed a scam culture.

Although ATMs are widely available, you likewise will not want to use ATMs. If you use an ATM, then you will withdraw money at the official exchange rate, virtually halving your purchasing power. Therefore, you should attempt to carry enough US dollars or euros into Algeria to fund your entire stay, and then use the street money changers to acquire Algerian dinars. Unless you want to pay double for everything, only use ATMs in the case that you run out of cash. If you must use an ATM, then you best bet is to find a Société Générale ATM, as most ATMs in Algeria do not accept foreign cards. Instead of using an ATM, there is the Wise/Revolut hack: find an Algerian you trust who has an account with Wise or Revolut (for example, a tour guide will likely have one), and you may be able to send them money via one of those apps. Have them do the exchange (they will know a guy), and acquire the dinars at the black-market rate directly from them.

Algeria is an almost entirely cash-based economy, and most establishments won't accept credit/debit cards. Regardless, you will not want to use credit/debit cards, because you will be paying via the official exchange rate. For your trip to Algeria, put away the cards and the devices; you'll be doing this old-school. You'll get used to it quickly.

Costs

Algeria is a remarkably economical country assuming you are using the black-market exchange rate; an underground metro ticket normally costs DA50 and the monthly rent for an apartment, depending on the area, is between DA40,000-100,000 per month. DA100-1,000 will get you a full meal or a bus ride from one major city to another. On the other hand, given the paucity of tourists in the country, quality budget tourist accommodations are rare bordering on nonexistent, so budget travellers may find they pay more than they're accustomed to for hotels.

Once you acquire your Dinars, you will want to hoard as many 'coins and small bills 'as you can. Almost every tourist activity is priced low enough to be paid in small change, and almost as a rule Algierians will not have change for your larger bills. You may find that coins feel more valuable than your bills, as those are what will grant you access to almost anything you want to do. Unless you want to drop DA2000 on a DA200 museum, save your coins.

Algerian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and North African flavors, with a strong French influence. Algerian cuisine is full of flavorful dishes such as tagines, couscous, and pastilla. Despite its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, Algerian cuisine is not as widely known or appreciated as other Mediterranean or North African cuisines. Still, that shouldn't stop you from fully experiencing Algerian gastronomy.

• Brik (stuffed malsouka pastry)
• Fettate (Sahara speciality, in Tamanrasset)
• Taguella (bread of sand, a nomad speciality)
• Couscous (steamed semolina with sauce containing meat and/or potatoes, carrots, courgette, and chick peas)
• Buseluf (cooked lambs head)
• Dowara (stew of stomach and intestines with courgette & chick peas)
• Chorba (a meaty soup)
• Rechta (hand made spaghetti, usually served with a clear chicken broth, potatoes & chick peas)
• Chakchouka (normally, it has green peppers, onions and tomatoes; egg may be added)
• Mechoui (charcoal grilled lamb)
• Algerian pizza
• Tajine (stew)
• Mhadjeb (A dish which is a kind of flaky pancake made from semolina traditionally stuffed with onion, tomatoes, garlic, pepper, and spices)

Desserts and snacks

• Qalb El Louz (Sweet dessert made from layers of buttery semolina and ground almonds. Flavoured with orange blossom and a honey syrup, it is bursting with flavours and summery aromas. Each slice is topped with a whole almond for a lovely crunch.)
• Baklawa (Almond cake consists of many layers of very thin dough carefully hand crafted and drenched in honey)
• Ktayef (A kind of baked vermicelli, filled with almonds and drenched in sugar, syrup, and honey)
• Makroudh (sweet pastry with almonds or dates)

Algeria produces a modest range of wines and beers. Once renowned for its vineyards, the country still turns out some excellent reds, while local beers are generally well-made and widely enjoyed.

Algeria is a majority Muslim country, so you do not find alcohol sold everywhere, but it is not hard to find. Wine and alcoholic drinks are sold in the few bar restaurants in the big cities, better hotels, and night clubs. Some bar/restaurants can be found in nice parks, so if you are in a nice wooded park, look for the restaurants. The fast food restaurants that are open and affordable to the public do not sell beer, and the coffee shops do not sell alcohol. If you visit Algiers or coastal cities, there are fish restaurants in almost every fishing port, the fishing is traditional and the fish sold is very fresh; usually, these restaurants sell alcohol but you have to ask (do not expect to see it, some times it is on the menu, some times not).

Liquor stores are reasonably plentiful in large cities such as Algiers and Oran. You can buy bottles of Algerian wine there, but it may be easier to buy at the Algiers airport, though expect to pay 15 EUR per bottle. In smaller towns, buying alcoholic drinks can be challenging; you usually find them at the edge of the towns in sketchy areas.

Algerians tend to drink more heavily than many majority Muslim countries, but aside from strewn beer bottles, it is generally kept discreet. It is best for you to do likewise: drink like an Algerian: heavily, socially, but keep it discreet. Don’t be a boorish tourist and ruin everyone’s fun.

Non-alcoholic

• Mediterranean juices (grenadine, orange)
• Very sweet green tea
• Strong coffee

Since foreign tourism is still limited in Algeria, most hotels cater to domestic and business travelers. Mid-range and higher-end options are common, but service levels are generally below North American or European standards—think one star less than listed. Budget choices are few and often very basic, so low-cost travelers usually end up in the cheaper mid-range hotels. Outside the top tier, expect mattresses to be extremely firm.

During the summer season, which spans from June 15 to August 31, many property owners rent out houses and cottages along the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in the area from Port Say (Marsa Ben M'hidi) to El-Kala. Prices for these rentals vary depending on the number of rooms, usually ranging from 700-3000 EUR per month, inclusive of electricity. It is advisable to make advance reservations through acquaintances or travel agencies to secure the desired accommodation. Additionally, many Algerians utilise internet ads for housing rentals, although it is recommended to send a trusted individual to inspect the property before making any payments, as some offers may appear attractive but prove to be deceptive.

Although education is free and mandatory for Algerians aged 6 to 15, the Algerian educational system has been criticised for being poorly maintained. Very few travellers, if any, take advantage of learning opportunities in the country. Unless you're fluent in either Arabic, French, or both, learning opportunities in Algeria are unlikely to be of interest to you.

The oldest and most prestigious university in the country is the University of Algiers.

Employment opportunities in Algeria are limited and rates of pay are low. A lack of economic diversification, a poor educational system, rigid labour conditions, a high dependence on oil and gas revenues, and restrictive regulations on foreign investment all contribute to the country's poor labour market. Successive Algerian governments have done little to create enough employment opportunities for people.

One seldom manages life in the country effectively without knowing either Arabic, French, or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills. Doing so will open many doors for you.

The largest employer in Algeria is the Algerian government and the government employs 30-40% of the Algerian workforce. If you manage to secure employment in Algeria, there's a good chance you might end up working for the Algerian government because the government has controlling stakes in many Algerian companies.

Algerian companies are hierarchical and there are set expectations for both senior managers and junior employees. Senior managers are generally expected to be decisive and demonstrate leadership qualities, and junior employees are generally expected to follow their superiors at all times.

While being a foreigner puts you at an advantage (Algerians generally trust foreign skills more than local skills), the importance of doing things the "Algerian way" cannot be overstated. Taking too much time to make a decision, showing no interest in doing tasks, not having good morals, not greeting superiors properly, and openly disagreeing with your superiors will undoubtedly distance you from people.

It is not unusual for Algerians to hire their close friends and family members. Algerians do not see this as an unfair practice; rather, they consider it gratifying to help others in need.

The working week typically runs from Sunday to Thursday. Friday and Saturday are rest days.

The Algerian authorities do not take too kindly to people abusing Algerian immigration laws; a lot of migrants from West Africa and the Sahel often try to enter Algeria illegally (without any paperwork and documentation) in search of better opportunities in Algeria. Many of these migrants work as labourers. Given Algeria's proximity to Europe, some migrants try to enter Europe.

Do not travel to or in Saharan Algeria overland if you have no experience with driving in desert areas or knowledge of Algerian roads. The area is sparsely populated (which means help is limited), and you can get lost easily if you don't know what you're doing. For this reason, access the area by plane.

Do not travel after nightfall; travel by plane if you can, instead of by car; travel with public transport; avoid minor roads; ask the police or gendarmes if you are unsure about your surroundings.

Travel is heavily discouraged for Jews, as anti-Semitism is ubiquitous in Algeria. Do not speak about any aspects of Judaism or Israel, and if you are Jewish, don't reveal it.

Political unrest

Since gaining independence in 1962, Algeria has experienced a long history of political instability. Anti-government protests and demonstrations are not uncommon, and they can turn violent pretty quickly.

Do not take part in political protests or make strongly worded comments against the government on social media; people, including dual citizens of Algeria, have been prevented from leaving the country for doing that.

Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings; if you see any signs of a protest or disturbance, you should leave the area immediately and seek a safe place.

It is strongly recommended that you monitor local media during your stay in Algeria.

Extreme weather

90% of the country is covered by the Sahara desert. Algeria is a very hot country and temperatures can go as high as 50 °C. Be sure to hydrate often and wear appropriate clothing to deal with the heat.

Terrorism and banditry

Areas near the borders with Niger, Mali, and Mauritania are unsafe due to general lawlessness. Generally speaking, tourists have little or no reason to go to those areas as they have little of interest. The exception to this is the Tadrart Rouge, which is on near the border with Niger but safe for travel. Although the security situation in Libya has significantly improved in the past few years, the two border crossings with Libya and Algeria, at Ghat and Ghadames, remain closed for the foreseeable future (updated Jul 2024).

Antiquities

Algeria has strict laws concerning the export of antiquities. If you buy a souvenir that looks old or antiquated, try to obtain the necessary documentation for it. Better to be safe than sorry. Not doing so will land you in serious trouble with the Algerian authorities.

Photography

Algeria may be replete with wonderful photo opportunities, but you should steer clear of photographing government buildings, security installations, or military/law enforcement personnel.

LGBT travellers

Homosexuality is illegal, and like throughout the Arab world, homosexuality is frowned upon by the vast majority of Algerians. Open display of such orientations may result in contempt and possible violence.

Racism

Algeria is, to a significant extent, a welcoming country. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Algerian culture, and Algerians consider it shameful not to give a guest a warm welcome.

This being said, black people may be assumed to be migrants from the Sahel and may attract unwanted attention from the authorities.

Algerian dual citizens

If you are an Algerian citizen – being a dual citizen of Algeria or having an Algerian father – possessing another passport will not exempt you from mandatory military service (applicable to men only) or grant you consular access and protection in the event you get detained or arrested.

Women travellers

Foreign women often attract the attention of Algerian men. Being overly friendly to or making direct eye contact with an Algerian man may cause him to think that you're "into" him.

Be warned that some men may sexually harass you. If this happens, don't feel the need to be polite and don't be afraid to create a scene.

Although Algeria has a universal healthcare system that covers all citizens and provides free medical care at public facilities, the public healthcare system is notorious for being poorly maintained; the system has been beset by underfunding, understaffing, overcrowding, corruption, and mismanagement. In addition, expect little to no help if you're not proficient in Arabic, French, or both. Medical care in Southern Algeria, particularly in the Sahara, is virtually non-existent. If you’re planning a trip to the area, bring your own medical supplies.

Algeria is sometimes struck by localized power cuts during summer in the south, which means that refrigerated foods may go bad. Therefore, you should keep that in mind when eating in restaurants, as the likelihood of getting food poisoning is always there.

Mosquitoes are also a problem in Algeria, but they are just a nuisance, as malaria is not common. In urban areas, there is periodic city-wide spraying against mosquitoes.

Do not expect very good water quality in southern Algeria. Buy bottles of water instead of drinking tap water: they are cheap at DA40 for 1.5L, so 5L of good water costs less than US$1.

Hygiene standards in Algeria are generally low, and litter is widespread—even in remote areas. While this is unlikely to pose a direct health risk, it can make public spaces unpleasant. Take normal precautions such as using hand sanitizer, avoiding contact with debris, and choosing cleaner-looking restaurants and accommodations where possible.

Algerians share a common culture with other North Africans and Arabs in the Gulf; therefore, much of what is considered good manners in the Arab world applies to Algeria.

Honour is an important cornerstone of Algerian culture and forms the basis of all relationships in the country. Algerians believe that turning down someone's request causes them to lose honour. Be smart about what you say openly — criticising someone in public or making someone look bad in front of others can cause an Algerian to lose their honour, i.e., lose face. While it's not a crime to publicly shame someone in Algeria, Algerians are generally remarkably sensitive to strongly worded comments and won't hesitate to react with anger if you do anything that makes them feel unvalued and disrespected.

Ask questions about or show some interest in Algerian history, geography, tourist attractions, and culture; this will get Algerians to like and respect you. As is the case anywhere, Algerians appreciate good comments about their country, customs, and culture.

Show respect to elders. Act politely around someone older than you or in a position of authority, and do not say or do anything that would make them feel challenged.

The terms "brother" and "sister" are often used to address people. They are not considered offensive.

Algerians generally value their privacy. That being said, it's not rude to ask if someone's married or if they have children.

Sensitive issues

Politics

Domestic politics are both highly sensitive and polarised. Algerians, in general, have a strained relationship with their government and it is common for them to express feelings of frustration, annoyance, and anger towards their government and politicians. While it's not a social faux pas to discuss politics, try to avoid stating your opinion on local politics; Algerians may not appreciate what you have to say.

Avoid being overly enthusiastic about France. The French occupation of Algeria was a period of great suffering for many Algerians. Thousands of Algerians were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the French, and Algerians feel that France hasn't done enough to acknowledge the harm it has caused to Algeria. In France, Algerians are sometimes discriminated against and treated with a degree of contempt. Praising French colonialism or denying colonial war crimes is an offense punishable by 10 years of imprisonment.

If you are of French-Algerian heritage, you should be extra careful; demonstrations of enthusiasm for France might get you labelled as a "harki" (native soldiers loyal to France, aka. traitor) or a "traitor".

Ethnicity is a very sensitive subject in Algeria. The Berbers, who make up 15-20% of the population, have a long history of being mistreated by the Arab-dominated Algerian government and have long struggled for autonomy and cultural rights. It would be considered awkward to ask an Algerian about what their ethnicity is; it could cause them to believe that you are questioning their loyalty to Algeria.

Tread carefully in discussing the Algerian Civil War. Tens of thousands of Algerians perished during the war and it is still a wound in the national consciousness.

Religion

Islam is the state religion of Algeria, and is, at least on paper, practiced by 99% of the population. That being said, there's no special dress code in effect and Algerians are generally not as religious as their Arab counterparts. Algerian dress styles are generally similar to European dress styles. It's advisable to dress conservatively so that you don't stand out like a sore thumb.

• When visiting sites of religious importance, behave and dress well. Some mosques may be off limits to non-Muslims. If in doubt, ask.
• During Ramadan, you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as insensitive and disrespectful.
• Anything hinting at proselytism will neither be appreciated nor welcomed.

Smoking

All cigarettes are sold freely.

Smoking in the presence of someone who is not a smoker in a public place requires his permission. If someone does not like the smoke, coughs, or asks you not to smoke, just stop and say sorry. This is what the locals do. If you are invited to someone's house, do not smoke unless the host does and after he does, you can ask for permission to smoke.

If you are in a restaurant or coffee terrace where people smoke, you can smoke, but if you are with locals who are not smokers, ask them first if it is okay.

If you are a non-smoker, you will still find it unpleasant in many public places because of smoking.

Mobile phone connections

There are 3 main mobile services in Algeria - Mobilis, Djezzy and Ooredoo. It is easy to procure a pre-paid sim card for one of these operators at any airport, although Ooredoo generally has the fastest speeds. In September 2025, a SIM card with 100 GB of data was sold by Ooredoo for DA2500. There are several general stores all over the country which will sell you refill cards for these carriers.