Eyeing the Mediterranean coastline, Algeria is a North African nation with umpteen ancient legacies left behind on its land. Owing to the Ottoman Turks, Algeria is home to a selection of many historical sites, forts and cathedrals, making this infamous tourist destination worth a visit.

Keeping Algeria’s geographical location in mind, travellers can make bookings as per their preference of activities. The ideal time to travel to Algeria for a Saharan safari is between April and March or in October-November as the weather is less fierce. To escape the crowds, travel during the months of spring. The Sahara Desert covers around 80% of the country, so the temperatures are warm throughout the year.

Algeria is a relatively safe nation to travel to with certain restrictions that must be carefully registered in any travellers mind. Do not travel overland in the Sahara Desert. It is also advised to avoid travel to areas within 30km of the borders with Libya, Mauritania, Mali and Niger. Due to colonialization, French is widely spoken and used by government, media and schools. Berber is spoken by less than half of the population only second to Algerian Arabic, which is the official language. Practice a few lines in these local dialects to avoid communication barriers.

Not an infamous route for top international carriers, choose from a vast number of airlines including Lufthansa, Alitalia, Turkish Airlines, Emirates and Egypt Air, offering consistent flights between India and Algeria, usually with one transit point. Once you arrive in the country, taxi and coach services are accessible in abundance.

What to see in Algeria

Algiers, the largest city in Algeria, is one of the world’s most underrated capitals. Walk through the Cashbah, a steep and narrow maze of streets and explore palaces from the times of the Ottoman rule. 

Visit ‘The Martyrs’ Memorial Monument’, a landmark which was built as a symbol of respect to commemorate the Algerians who were killed during the war. Just a kilometre from this historical monument, head over to The National Museum of Fine Art which exhibits French-style portraits.

Notre-Dame d’Afrique in Algiers stands tall displaying its neo-Byzantine architecture. A Roman Catholic basilica, it often attracts large crowds. In Constantine, Emir Abdelkader Mosque is another architectural marvel to behold.

For the adrenaline geeks, get to the Tamanrasset province and hike through the Hoggar Mountains. Witness spectacular nature reserves, namely the Ahaggar National Park and the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park. 

Algeria is home to a diverse range of delicacies that date back to its colonisation by the French and Turks. Couscous (semolina-like pasta made from cracked wheat) is a staple dish in the country and throughout North Africa; Chickpea-cakes are usually added as a side dish and Tajine (stew, usually with lamb or chicken) which is also popular food item in everyday routine.

Bargaining is very common in Algeria and is a way of survival for many sellers in the country. From crafted souvenirs and jewellery to fresh dry fruits, shops and markets here sell just about everything imaginable. The acceptance of debit and credit cards is very limited, so make sure you have enough cash to buy then and there.