Why visit Algeria
Algeria is the largest country in Africa, yet one of the least-visited. That means Roman cities without crowds, Saharan landscapes that feel endless, and a Mediterranean coast that locals still keep to themselves. Here are the highlights worth planning a trip around.
The Casbah of Algiers
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Casbah is a maze of Ottoman-era alleys, courtyard houses and tiny mosques tumbling down toward the bay. Go with a local guide to navigate the steep lanes and find the old palaces and artisan workshops.
Timgad
Founded by Emperor Trajan around 100 AD, Timgad is one of the best-preserved Roman towns anywhere. Walk its grid of paved streets to Trajan's Arch, the theatre and the forum, set against the Aurès mountains.
Djemila
Another extraordinary Roman site, Djemila sits high in the hills of Setif. Its temples, basilicas and mosaics adapt to the sloping terrain, and the on-site museum holds some of North Africa's finest mosaic floors.
The Sahara at Tamanrasset and the Hoggar
Deep in the south, the Hoggar (Ahaggar) Mountains rise in jagged volcanic spires. Climb to the Assekrem plateau for one of the most famous sunrises on Earth, and meet the Tuareg whose culture defines the region.
Tassili n'Ajjer
This vast sandstone plateau near Djanet holds thousands of prehistoric rock paintings, some 12,000 years old, depicting a green Sahara of cattle and hunters. It is both a UNESCO site and an otherworldly landscape of stone arches.
Constantine, the city of bridges
Dramatically split by the Rhumel gorge, Constantine is linked by soaring bridges including the Sidi M'Cid suspension bridge. Wander the old town, visit the Palace of Ahmed Bey and look down into the ravine far below.
Tipaza and the coast
West of Algiers, Tipaza's Roman ruins sit right on the Mediterranean, with columns framing the blue sea. Combine it with the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania nearby for a perfect coastal day trip.
Oran
Algeria's second city is the birthplace of raï music, lively and Mediterranean. Climb to Santa Cruz fort above the bay, stroll the seafront and enjoy the café culture.
Ghardaia and the M'Zab Valley
Five fortified hilltop towns of the Mozabite people, the M'Zab Valley is a UNESCO site of cubist whitewashed and ochre houses that famously inspired Le Corbusier.
Practical tips
- Most visitors need a visa; check requirements before travel.
- Saharan trips usually require a licensed local agency and guide.
- Friday is the main day of rest; plan around it.
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