Algeria / الجمهورية الجزائرية الديمقراطية الشعبية – Let’s explore here
Algeria is a large and beautiful country in North Africa, dominated in the south by the Sahara Desert. It’s the tenth largest country in the world and the largest in Africa. It is also the centre of the Maghreb (the western part of the Arab world). As with many nations in North Africa, it has a very long, rich and troubled history. Its neighbours include Morocco (which it has broken off relations with), Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mauritania, Western Sahara and Mali.
It has a population of around 45 million, 4½ million of whom live in the capital, Algiers. The highest point is Mount Tahat in the Hoggar Mountains in southern Algeria, at 9,541 ft (2,908 m) above sea level.
Current travels
On our current journey we will travel from Tunisia via Chott el Djerid (the Lagoon of Palms) into Algeria, before heading down the eastern border to Djanet and Tamarasset in the Sahara desert. We’ll then travel inland parallel to the Mali border to Bechar in the west of Algeria. Finally we’ll be heading up the Mediterranean coast, and the Capital, Algiers, before heading back to Tunisia.
Algeria is so huge that each leg of the journey will take many days, each of which will no doubt be stiflingly hot. Lots of planning is required to ensure enough provisions are at hand (especially water, food, fuel, rescue equipment) should there me any mishaps in the desert.
Initially we’d planned to travel from Spain to the north western coast of Algeria via ferry, however the cost is quite high (2024). Hence we’re now travelling from Sicily to Tunisia, then overland to Algeria.
Our travels through Algeria took us from Taleb al’Arabi – El Oued – El Menia – In Salah – Djanet – Idles – Tamanrasset – In Salah – Reggane – Timourdi – Timimour – Bechar – Naama – Mascara – Oran – Algiers – al’Ewan
What’s it like to drive in Algeria?
Driving in the desert takes experience and should be undertaken lightly. Having the correct tyres, as well as specialist rescue equipment, and digging implements can literally save your life. Fuel stations are irregularly spaced, so extra fuel cans for spare fuel are required. Similarly always prepare by taking lots of extra water and food should there be any mishaps.
Local and national police have checkpoints set through the country, with more in the south than the north. Generally the police are looking out for you, and will insist in escorting you in some instances. Provision of a mobile phone number with an Algerian sim card can help ease passage – although the police will expect you to check in with them at the next checkpoint – so ensure that you do so.
In the north, along the coast, driving is fairly easy going, although minor accidents are common. Driving in the capital is not for the light hearted, as with all north African capitals.
We’ve also created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which you might find helpful 🙂
What currency do they use in Algeria?
In Algeria they use the Algerian Dinar. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is not widely accepted. Traveller’s cheques are not readily accepted. There are many ATMs in cities and towns throughout the country, although most do to accept foreign-country issued cards.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Algeria?
They speak Arabic and Berber in Algeria. French is also widely spoken.
What time zone is Algeria in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Algeria?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Algeria?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Algeria.
If you’ve got some awesome pictures, or some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!