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Algeria is little visited. This is perhaps mainly because it is overshadowed by easier-to-access Morocco to the west and Tunisia to the east. The legacy of an Islamist insurgency and a resulting civil war also still looms large although a generation ago. Arguably the first war on terror, it may have led to the deaths of 300,000 civilians.
Because Algeria is so little visited, it can be difficult to get accurate information on the situation in the country. Is it safe to visit Algeria? That’s what I’m here to hopefully detail.
Is Algeria open for travellers?
Algeria is open to travellers. Tourist visas are available for those heading out on organized tours as well as independent travellers like myself.
I found that once in the country I was free to do as I pleased. Stick to the big cities where most of the traditional attractions lie, and it’s unlikely you’ll face any issues.
Head out into the countryside and places even more off the beaten track than Algeria is already, and (like me) you may raise some interest with Algeria’s police. Don’t be too surprised if you get a visit from the local cops. I had several encounters and they all ended amicably – and often with the offer of tea.
You can read more about my personal experiences in Algeria in my book Into Adventure and Sunshine.
Getting a tourist visa for Algeria
The exact details for getting a tourist visa for Algeria will depend on the issuing country of your passport and your country of residence.
Until very recently, you needed to apply in advance at your nearest embassy or mission. Several pieces of documentation were required, with the most complicated to obtain being proof that you’ll return home. Embassies usually suggest a letter from your employer stating they are expecting you back. If you’re self-employed, it got even harder.
Now though it’s sometimes possible to obtain a visa on arrival. You’ll need to be travelling on an organized tour, and you’ll need to be spending two-thirds (actually 70%) of your time in the Algerian Sahara. That’s probably no real hardship for most travellers to Algeria, as this is the region containing destinations including Tamanrasset, Djanet, and Tassili N’Ajjer National Park.
It’s important to note that Israeli passport holders and those with Israeli visas in their passports will be automatically refused visas and entry into Algeria. Sadly, this is unlikely to change any time soon.
How safe is Algeria?
When it comes to security, I found Algeria to be charmingly ‘ordinary’, although there was a sense of a nation on edge.
On more than one occasion when walking in the countryside I was warned about Islamic terrorists by locals, and asked to produce my passport by roving police in 4x4s. This does start to feel a little intrusive.
Generally speaking, the Tell Region on the Mediterranean coast is the safest part of Algeria. Home to the country’s biggest cities, Algiers, Oran and Annaba, this is where the majority of the population live. The security presence is strongest here as a result.
Is Algiers safe?
Central areas of the big cities, including the capital, Algiers, feel very safe by day. However, like anywhere in the world, you should avoid looking out of place or marking yourself as a target.
Try and avoid using maps or electronics on the street. If you’re unsure where you are, stop by the nearest café for a drink and peruse your maps while seated. Be aware snatches from café tables can happen.
The working-class suburbs should generally be avoided, and hold little of interest to most travellers in any case.
The maze-like streets of Algiers’ Casbah are a major draw. You may feel out of place without a local guide as this warren of alleys is a residential part of the city where everyone knows everyone. The French-built church of Notre Dame d’Afrique and the Martyrs Memorial are other big attractions in the city.
After dark, it’s best to make use of a taxi recommended by your hotel.
Areas to avoid in Algeria
The Kabyle Mountains to the east of Algiers have seen sporadic attacks from militant ethnic Kabyle wanting more autonomy for decades.
Past attacks have focussed on infrastructure such as the train line to Constantine, and roads within this mountainous region. Tourists are not deliberately targeted, but may get caught in the cross fire.
Algeria’s borders are also areas where tensions can flare. Crossing overland into Tunisia or Libya is possible, but not recommended on security grounds. I was escorted to the Tunisian border by undercover police officers ‘for my own safety’.
The border with Morocco has been sealed for decades because of Algeria’s support of the Sahrawi people and their call for an independent Western Sahara.
Algeria’s portions of the Sahara Desert are home to a number of self-declared terrorist groups. Extreme thought should be taken before visiting these areas to understand the risks.
Likewise, you should stay away from the Sahara during the high summer months (July and August) because of the heat at this time of year.
Across the country, you should avoid political rallies and demonstrations because of the risk of them turning indiscriminately violent.
Top tips for travelling to Algeria
- Alcohol is not prohibited in Algeria, but with a population 99% Muslim, is looked upon with suspicion. If you fancy a drink, they’re best enjoyed at the bar of an international hotel in Algiers such as the Radisson Blu or Sofitel. They’re both less than 2 miles (3 km) from the heart of the city. Stay near the airport as some suggest and you’ll have a long transfer by road to see any of the city’s attractions.
- Algerian dinars cannot be obtained outside of the country. There is a thriving black market for exchange, offering substantially better rates than the banks. If going down this route, ensure you know the latest exchange rates and count any money before handing over your own.
- After independence in 1962 from France, French was removed from many road signs, making navigation difficult. Most Algerians on the coast still speak French, as well as Arabic. This goes for younger generations and those that witnessed independence themselves. English is spoken by a small but growing number of people.
- As a predominantly Muslim country, Algeria observes the holy month of Ramadan. It can significantly affect travel plans and opening times, so it’s well worth knowing more about it before confirming any trip to the country. My guide to travelling during Ramadan should help.
- You’ll want to ensure you have adequate travel insurance, covering you for losses and medical treatment.
How safe is Algeria to visit?
By taking the usual precautions most visitors to Algeria will find Africa’s largest nation both safe and welcoming. Follow the up-to-the-minute guidance provided by your national government, and you too can discover one of the continent’s hidden gems.
