Algeria Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Is Algeria open for tourism? Yes, it is increasingly welcoming, though it remains “off the beaten path” compared to its neighbors.
What is the best month to visit? March to May and September to November offer the best weather (15–25°C).
Do I need a visa? Most Western nationalities require a visa. Process times vary from 1 day to 3 weeks.
Is there a Visa on Arrival? Yes, but strictly for the southern Saharan regions if booked through a licensed tour agency.
How do I get an invitation letter? Either through an Algerian friend (legalized at a town hall) or a licensed travel agency.
Can I use a hotel booking for a visa? Many consulates accept a booking.com confirmation, but some insist on a stamp from the hotel.
Is it expensive? It depends. On the official exchange rate, it is moderate; on the black market rate, it is very cheap.
What is the “Square” in Algiers? Square Port Said, the unofficial hub for exchanging currency at the parallel market rate.
Is the black market exchange legal? It is technically illegal but widely practiced and tolerated for tourists.
Should I bring Euros or Dollars? Euros are preferred and get a slightly better exchange rate.
Do ATMs work? Yes, but they use the official (lower) bank rate. It is better to bring cash.
Are credit cards accepted? Only in high-end hotels and some malls in Algiers. Cash is king.
Do I need to speak French? It helps immensely. Many older people speak French, while the youth are leaning toward English.
Is English common? It is growing among Gen Z, but you will struggle with signs and menus without a translation app.
What is the local dialect called? Darja. It’s a mix of Arabic, Berber, and French.
How is the internet? 4G is generally good in cities. Buy a Mobilis or Ooredoo SIM card at the airport.
Can I use a drone? Strictly prohibited without a difficult-to-get professional permit. It will be confiscated at customs.
What should I wear? Conservative clothing is recommended. Avoid short shorts or sleeveless tops in rural areas.
Do women need to wear a hijab? No, except when entering a mosque.
Is the water safe to drink? Most locals and travelers stick to bottled water (like Lalla Khedidja or Ifri).
Safety & Solo Travel
Is Algeria safe for solo male travelers? Generally very safe. Most “danger” is petty theft in crowded markets.
Is it safe for solo female travelers? Yes, but expect some catcalling or stares. It is often recommended to use a guide for peace of mind.
Are there “No-Go” zones? Avoid border regions with Libya, Mali, and Niger. Stick to the north and designated southern tourist spots.
Will I be followed by police? In some remote or sensitive areas, the police may provide a mandatory escort for your safety.
Is it safe at night? Major streets in Algiers (Didouche Mourad) are safe, but avoid dark alleys in the Casbah after sunset.
What is the emergency number? 17 for Police, 14 for Fire/Ambulance.
Are Algerians friendly? They are famously hospitable. Many travelers report being invited for coffee or dinner by strangers.
Is kidnapping a real risk? Not in the northern tourist areas. It remains a theoretical risk only in extreme desert border regions.
Can I take photos of police/military? Absolutely not. This can lead to questioning or deletion of photos.
Is the Casbah safe to enter alone? It is better to go with a local guide; it’s a maze, and some areas are sketchy for outsiders.
Destinations & Sights
What is the “White City”? Algiers (Alger la Blanche).
What is the best thing to see in Algiers? The Jardin d’Essai du Hamma (botanical gardens) and Notre Dame d’Afrique.
What is the Monument of Martyrs? Maqam Echahid, an iconic 92m structure overlooking the city.
Is Constantine worth visiting? Yes, it is the “City of Bridges” and often considered the most beautiful city by travelers.
What are the best Roman ruins? Timgad and Djemila (UNESCO sites) are world-class and often nearly empty.
Where can I see the Sahara? Djanet or Tamanrasset.
What is Tassili n’Ajjer? A national park in the Sahara famous for prehistoric rock art and “forests of stone.”
Is Oran different from Algiers? Yes, it has a more “Spanish” vibe and a vibrant nightlife/music scene (Rai music).
What is Santa Cruz? A fort and chapel in Oran with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Can I visit the Grand Mosque of Algiers? Yes, it is the third-largest in the world.
Where is Ghardaïa? In the M’zab Valley. It’s a pentapolis with unique architecture and very traditional customs.
Are there good beaches? Yes, especially in Bejaïa, Jijel, and Annaba.
What is Tipaza? A coastal town near Algiers with Roman ruins right next to the sea.
Can I go skiing? Yes, in Tikjda or Chréa during the winter (January/February).
What is the “Canyon of Ghoufi”? Often called the “Grand Canyon of Algeria” in the Aurès Mountains.
How many days for Algiers? 3–4 days is usually enough for the main sights.
How many days for the whole country? At least 10–14 days to see the North and the Sahara.
Are there many museums? Yes, the Bardo Museum of Prehistory and the National Museum of Fine Arts in Algiers are top-tier.
Is Bejaïa safe? Very safe and famous for its “Yemma Gouraya” mountain lookout.
What is the most “European” city? Algiers, specifically the downtown “Centre” built by the French.
Food & Drink
What is the national dish? Couscous, usually served with meat and vegetables.
What is Rechta? A traditional Algiers dish of thin noodles with chicken and white sauce (turnips).
What is Bourek? A crispy deep-fried pastry filled with meat, cheese, or shrimp.
Can I find alcohol? Yes, in specific “Brasseries,” bars, and high-end hotels, but it is not sold in supermarkets.
Is it okay to eat with my hands? In traditional settings, yes, usually using the right hand.
What is “Selecto”? A very popular local apple-caramel flavored soda.
Is coffee culture big? Huge. You’ll see “Pressé” (espresso) served everywhere.
What is Algerian tea like? Saharan tea is frothy and strong; northern tea is usually mint-based.
Is street food safe? Generally yes. Look for busy stalls. Try “Garantita” (chickpea cake).
What is Mahjouba? A spicy, thin semolina crepe filled with onion and tomato sauce.
Are there vegetarian options? Yes, but limited. Look for “Loubia” (bean stew) or “Adess” (lentils).
Is tipping expected? Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is appreciated.
What is the best dessert? Makroudh (date-filled semolina) or Qalb el Louz (almond cake).
Can I buy local wine? Yes, Algeria has a long history of winemaking (try Coteaux de Mascara).
Are restaurants closed during Ramadan? Yes, during the day. Most open after sunset (Iftar).
Transport & Movement
How do I get around Algiers? Use the Metro (very clean) or the Yassir app (similar to Uber).
Is there a train system? Yes, SNTF runs trains between Algiers, Oran, and Constantine. The “Coradia” trains are modern.
Can I rent a car? Yes, but driving in Algiers is chaotic. It’s better for inter-city travel.
Are domestic flights reliable? Air Algérie and Tassili Airlines are the main carriers. They are generally okay but prone to delays.
How do I get to the Sahara? Flights from Algiers to Djanet or Tamanrasset are the best way.
Are taxis expensive? “Inter-wilaya” (between cities) taxis are cheap. Private city taxis should be negotiated or use an app.
What is a “Taxi Collectif”? A shared taxi that leaves once all seats (usually 7) are full.
Is the Metro safe? Very safe and heavily policed.
Can I walk between cities? No, the distances are vast and some rural roads are not pedestrian-friendly.
What is the best way to Tipaza? A 45-minute drive or a bus from the “Chevalley” or “Tafourah” stations.
Culture & Etiquette
Should I tip my tour guide? Yes, it is standard practice for private tours.
How do I greet people? A handshake and “Salam” is standard.
Can I publicize my location on social media? It’s fine, but some travelers prefer to post after leaving an area for privacy.
Is public affection allowed? No, it is a conservative society. Avoid kissing or hugging in public.
What is the weekend? Friday and Saturday. Sunday is a normal work day.
Is Friday a good day for sightseeing? No, most things are closed until the afternoon prayer (2:00 PM).
Do I need to haggle? In the markets (Souks), yes. In malls or pharmacies, no.
Can I enter a mosque as a non-Muslim? Most mosques are closed to tourists, but the Grand Mosque of Algiers allows visitors.
What is the best souvenir? Leather goods, Berber jewelry (silver and coral), or high-quality dates.
Is smoking common? Very common among men in public spaces.
Miscellaneous & Tech
What power plug is used? Type C and F (European 2-pin).
What is the currency? Algerian Dinar (DZD).
Can I use my phone’s GPS? Yes, Google Maps works, but it can be inaccurate in the Casbah.
Is there a lot of litter? Unfortunately, yes. It is a common complaint.
Are there public toilets? Rare. Use toilets in cafes or malls.
Is medical care expensive? Public hospitals are free but crowded. Private clinics are affordable for Westerners.
Can I buy a SIM card at the airport? Yes, there are kiosks in the arrivals hall.
Is the country wheelchair accessible? Generally, no. Sidewalks are uneven and many sites have stairs.
What is the “Lacoste” joke? A local meme: avoid “shady” guys wearing Lacoste tracksuits (usually associated with pickpockets).
Are there many stray animals? Many stray cats, which are generally treated well by locals.
Can I use my Wise/Revolut card? You can’t withdraw cash easily, but you can use them to pay online for flights.
Is the border with Morocco open? No, the land border is strictly closed.
How is the nightlife? Limited to hotels and specific districts like Hydra in Algiers or seafront bars in Oran.
What is “Dar” in addresses? It means “House of.”
Is it worth the hassle? Travelers reviews say “Yes”—the lack of tourists makes it feel like a real adventure.