Algeria
North Africa · Africa
- Capital
- Algiers
- Currency
- Algerian Dinar (DZD دج)
- Language
- Arabic and Berber (Tamazight); French widely used
- Timezone
- UTC+1
- Safety rating
- 5.5/10
- Best time to visit
- Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring mild weather to the north, while desert trips are best from October to April when daytime heat eases.
Overview
Africa's largest country stretches from Mediterranean beaches and Ottoman-era casbahs down into the surreal dunes and rock art of the Sahara. Roman ruins at Timgad and Djémila rival those in Italy, while the M'zab Valley's fortified oasis towns feel timeless. Algeria rewards adventurous travelers with raw landscapes and very few crowds.
Visa requirements
Most visitors need a visa arranged in advance through an Algerian consulate, usually requiring an invitation or hotel booking. Desert tours typically arrange permits and visa support on your behalf.
Safety information
Coastal cities like Algiers and Oran are generally calm, but the Sahara border regions with Mali, Niger and Libya are off-limits due to security risks. Travel in the deep south only with licensed tour operators and official escorts.
Travel tips
Carry cash, as cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels and the unofficial exchange rate far exceeds the bank rate. Learning a few words of French or Arabic helps enormously, and dress modestly especially away from the coast. Buy a local Mobilis or Djezzy SIM for affordable mobile data.