Are you planning a trip to Africa and looking for tips on how to plan the perfect trip to Algeria? Algeria is a beautiful country in North Africa with a rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. From the sandy Sahara Desert to the Mediterranean coastline, Algeria has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the 10 steps to planning your perfect adventure to Algeria.
Table of Contents:
- Research and Plan
- Choose the Best Time to Visit
- Pick the Tour Right For You
- Choose Your Accommodations
- Apply for a Visa
- Book Your Flights
- Know the Local Customs and Etiquette
- Learn Basic Arabic Phrases
- Plan Your Activities
- Stay Safe and Healthy
+ Frequently Asked Questions
#1 – Research and Plan
Before embarking on your adventure to Algeria, it is essential to take the time to research. Is a trip to Algeria right for you? Where would you like to go? When? Then, find a reputable and knowledgeable tour company that suits your needs.
Of course, we at Mosaic North Africa believe we offer the best expertise and resources for Algeria tours. Still, there are several other tour operators that suit different budgets and preferences. Find a company that is reputable, knowledgeable, and responsive.
Finally, it is important you pay a visit to your country’s travel advice website. Due to instability and terrorism, some areas of Algeria are still dangerous. Travel may require police escorts or security. If you would like more information if Algeria is safe to visit, scroll to our FAQs below.
Algeria Travel Advisory Hotlinks:
- USA – State Department
- Canada – Canada Travel
- United Kingdom – Foreign Travel Advice
- Australia – Smart Traveller AU
#2 – Choose the Best Time to Visit
Being the largest country in Africa, Algeria’s climate can be quite diverse. The best time to visit depends on where they will go and their hot/cold tolerance. In the summer, temperatures can be scorching, especially in the Sahara Desert. In the winter, it can be quite cold.
Generally, we recommend visiting in the Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) for the mildest climate. Avoid visiting in the summer months and pack clothes in case the nights get cold. For more in-depth information on Algeria’s climate, visit TravelGuide.org.
#3 – Pick the Tour Right for You
Being so large and diverse, Algeria has more than anybody could possibly see in one trip. So, in order to plan the perfect trip to Algeria, you will need to prioritize. Make a list of what you most enjoy seeing and include them on your itinerary. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Are you a big history buff? A Roman history-focused tour might be right for you.
- If camping deep in the Sahara Desert sounds like your style, we have a desert camping article that can tell you what that is like. Or, view our 10-day Deep South Adventure Tour.
- Interested in rich, niche cultures? You should add a stop at the unique Mozabite village of Ghardaia.
#4 – Choose Your Accommodations
Algeria has a range of accommodation options, from basic hotels to luxury guest houses. Choose what best suits your budget and don’t forget to account for daily food budgets. In terms of value, we recommend 4-star hotels for a small price jump. Ideally, your tour company will handle all the hotel bookings for you, so you don’t have to research the nitty details of each hotel’s cleanliness and commute times.
#5 – Apply for a Visa
All visitors to Algeria must obtain a visa in advance of their departure. You can obtain a visa by applying at an Algerian embassy or consulate of your home country. If you can, begin this process as early as possible. For more information, here is our guide to visa applications.
#6 – Book Your Flights
Once you have your visa and tour program, book your flights to Algeria. Most travel agencies do not handle your international airfare (arrival or departure), so you will need to do this on your own. Most itineraries are best structured around arrival and departure at Algiers International Airport in the nation’s capital.
# 7 – Know the Local Customs and Etiquette
Wherever you go, it is essential to respect the local customs and etiquette. Nobody wants to look like an arrogant tourist. Rude tourists don’t have fun, and they surely don’t get good service from the locals. Instead, the perfect trip to Algeria should be an authentic cultural adventure, getting an up-close look at a new, rich culture.
In practice, this may mean dressing more modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and asking permission before taking pictures of people (some traditions forbid being photographed). Watch the locals; see how they act, dress, and greet each other. Then, if appropriate and respectful, try to join in on the fun!
#8 – Learn Basic Arabic Phrases
Assuming you are reading this in English, your language is not widely spoken in Algeria. Most Algerians know French, but Arabic is their heart language. Taking the time to learn basic phrases will help your tour go smoothly. Plus, it goes a very long way to honor the locals.
To get you started: the most common greeting is ‘Salem’ (hello). The response to this is ‘Salem, labes’ (Hello, all is fine). You respond to this again with ‘labes.’ If you’d like to say thank you or please: “shukran” is standard. Your guide can help you with pronunciation and any other key phrases.
#9 – Plan Your Activities
In our opinion, a plan for a perfect trip to Algeria requires getting out of your comfort zone and doing something fun. Luckily, Algeria hosts a range of activities for adventure seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers. Explore the Sahara Desert on a camel trek, hike in the Atlas Mountains, or swim at the seaside Roman ruins of Tipasa. Pick some adventuresome activities that will make this trip unforgettable.
#10 – Stay Safe and Healthy
Algeria is a relatively safe country, but it is always essential to take precautions when traveling. Avoid traveling alone, especially at night, and stay aware of your surroundings. Always carry a copy of your passport and important documents with you and store the originals in a safe place.
Also, as for food and drinks, be cautious. Traveler’s diarrhea can be a problem. Stick to drinking bottled water, avoid sketchy street food, and make sure to bring any necessary medications with you.
Conclusion + FAQs
Without a doubt, Algeria is a beautiful country with a rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. To plan the perfect trip to Algeria requires research, careful planning, and respect for the local customs and etiquette. By following the 10 steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your trip to Algeria will be a memory that lasts forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Algeria a safe country to travel to? Yes, a trip to Algeria is safe as long as you follow precautions. This may include: registering with local authorities, arranging for security escorts, avoiding dangerous regions, and staying on your itinerary. Mosaic North Africa and our travel partners will not schedule tours into locations that pose risk or discomfort to our clients.
The overwhelming majority of tourists have a positive experience in Algeria. Often, they are surprised at how hospitable and welcoming Algerians are. We are confident your tour will be amazing as well. Still, there is an increased risk from terrorist groups, especially in the Southern border regions. View your country’s travel advisories and assume that all travel includes risk. - What is the best time of year to visit Algeria? The best time to visit Algeria is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is mild.
- Do I need a visa to visit Algeria? All tourists will need an Algerian visa.
- What should I pack for my trip to Algeria? Once it’s finally time to start packing (we hope you’re not doing this the night before), there are a few things to take into consideration. A packing list should include:
- a diverse set of clothing for all sorts of weather
- toiletries (bring toilet paper! It is not in all public restrooms)
- hand sanitizer
- comfortable shoes
- a portable battery pack and type C power adapter
- a filtered water bottle
- apple airtags (for your luggage)
- UV sunglasses.
- What are the best activities to do in Algeria? Well, there is a lot to do. On the top of our list, we recommend visiting some Roman ruins, camping in the Sahara, and trying local foods. If you do a tour with us, you won’t have to worry about planning these activities yourself, we will pack your custom itinerary with as many activities as we can!
Contact one of our travel experts for a tour quote today!