Algeria is one of the most unexpected countries one can visit. Not only because of its millenary history still shaping its culture but because of the intense diversity of its landscapes. From stunning Mediterranean coastlines to immense desert and Martian-like landscapes, vibrant cities and green forests. Algerian cultural roots are shaped by the colonisation of many different cultures: Phoenician, Roman, Arab, Byzantine and French to mention a few. This melting pot of history is still visible in any corner of the country making it a unique place to visit and learn about history and culture. This is an informative section about Algeria that includes all the Algeria Travel Guides and some basic information for your trip.
Algeria travel information
Algeria’s capital is Algiers. One of the biggest cities in the country, also famous as Algiers la blanche because of its whitewashed appearance.
The official languages in Algeria are Arabic and Berber with Algerian Arabic being the most dominant dialect. French is widely spoken and taught at school. Guides speak English very well.
The Algerian Dinar (DZD) is the official currency in Algeria. Differently from Morocco and Egypt, Algerian currency can be obtained out of Algeria. Nevertheless, it is considered a “rare currency” due to the difficulties of visiting the country. Therefore, only specialised bank have it available.
Algeria has two different types of plugs. These are Plug C and plug F. These are the same typologies used in France and Italy. If you are travelling from the UK, you’ll need to buy and adapter. I always use an universal adapter so that I don’t need to buy one for every destination I visit.
Booking your hotel in advance is essential to avoid last minute scams and stay at your preferred accommodation. I always get the best rates on Booking.com.
As you will walk a lot in crowded places, particularly in Algiers and Annaba, I recommend to place your passport and cash in a Invisible Money Belt. My best suggestion is to keep on your wallet only small pieces of cash and hide the rest in the money belt. Indeed, this is very discrete and will ensure you can go around safely and without gaining unwanted attention.
Where is Algeria?
Algeria is a North-African country (the largest in Africa) bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, and Western Sahara. More of 80% of the Algerian land is composed by desert but it’s crossed also by certain mountain ranges including the Tell Atlas, the Sahara Atlas.
Do I need a visa to visit Algeria?
Yes. A visa is mandatory to enter the country and unfortunately at the moment is quite difficult to obtain. Check all the requirements for the visa in my Algeria Travel Guide.
Where I’ve been in Algeria
Travel guides about Algeria
Here below find all the travel guides about Algeria. I’ve just started writing them so this section is still work in progress!
