This Algeria Volunteer Travel Guide is brought to you by Go Volunteer Africa, the largest and leading volunteer travel operator in Africa. Algeria is the largest country in Africa located in the North of the continent.
Overlooked by many travelers, the country is bursting with beauty waiting to be discovered. From the bustling markets of Algiers to the pristine beaches of its Mediterranean coast, the jaw-droppingly beautiful mountains of the north to the mesmerizing deep reaches of the Sahara Desert to the south, there is something for almost everyone to explore.
Share your skills and experience with the locals through volunteering, enjoy traditional cuisine, explore the ancient ruins, take in the breathtaking views, and then breathe in a world where few travelers tread. Algeria, and in particular Algerian hospitality, will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
Algeria has much to offer tourists who are looking for a unique and enriching travel experience. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and camel riding, or simply relax on the beaches and soak up the sun.
Algeria is also home to a rich and vibrant culture that is a blend of African, Arab, and Berber influences. This is reflected in the country’s architecture, music, and cuisine, which are all worth exploring during a visit. The people of Algeria are friendly and welcoming to tourists, and visitors can expect to be greeted with warmth and hospitality wherever they go.
Safety in Algeria
Lots of tourists are afraid to come to Algeria. No wonder why, if the last news most of the people had about this country, is the terrorism back in 90′. The knowledge about Algeria abroad is very little and outdated.
While Algeria has faced its share of challenges in recent years, it remains a safe and fascinating destination for travelers who are seeking something different. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, volunteering, or adventure, Algeria is a country that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
It’s important to follow basic safety guidelines while traveling in Algeria, such as avoiding large crowds or demonstrations, being cautious when traveling in remote areas, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. It’s also recommended to use a reputable travel company like Go Volunteer Africa and have a local team with you when exploring less-visited areas.
Overall, with common sense and awareness, it’s safe to travel to Algeria. As with any destination, it’s always a good idea to keep up-to-date with current events and travel advisories before planning your trip.
Language in Algeria
The official language in Algeria is Arabic (Algerian dialect) plus people speak French as it was a French colony. For those who can speak the classic Arabic – it’s totally different, but you can survive. For those who cannot speak either French nor Arabic? well… you will have a hard time due to the communication barrier.
English? Most of the young people learn English at school so should speak. In practice, it’s not easy to find people speaking English, to be honest. Prepare some handy dictionary in French or use the translator to survive in Algeria. Here is the full Algeria Volunteer Travel Guide.
Money withdrawal
In Algeria you have to use local currency which is Algerian dinar. There are not many places in the whole country where ATM accepts international bank cards. First option is the airports in Algiers or Oran. Second one, is ATMs in a huge hotel like Sheraton. Third, would be trying the regular banks, but I think it’s a waste of time, they will most likely refuse your card.
ATMs on the airports accept foreign cards as VISA or MasterCard, however, please note that it’s not sure that it will work. You can be left without money in Algeria if you count on the ATMs. The same with paying by card – foreign card will not be accepted. Therefore, you need to bring cash with you in dollars or euro and exchange.
Where to sleep in Algeria
As mass tourism does not exist in Algeria, competition is low and hotels can impose the price they wish. They host a lot of people coming for business or tourists from organized tours. Those don’t really mind the price, as their stay is pre-covered.
Prices of the hotels in Algeria start from around USD$20 and go up to $200 a night. However, to make your experience affordable, we advise you to apply for a volunteering trip with Go Volunteer Africa, we already have our volunteer accommodation, we can also make arrangements for you to stay with a local family.
Internet in Algeria
If you want to have Internet in Algeria, you need to get local sim card with data. The prices vary depending of the internet data.
Transportation in Algeria
Algeria has variety of means of public transportation. They have buses, planes, trains, taxis and metro in the capital city – Algiers. Moving with public buses or trains around the country is very cheap. Trains are fine, and they are faster than the bus, which may stop in many cities. Taxis are relatively expensive in comparing with other means of transport, however, local people use them a lot for few reasons.
Food in Algeria
Algerian cuisine is a delicious fusion of North African and Mediterranean flavors, with influences from Berber, Arabic, and French cuisines. Here are some dishes that you should try when visiting Algeria:
Couscous: Couscous is a staple dish in Algeria, made from steamed semolina grains and served with meat or vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Tajine: Tajine is a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, typically served with bread or couscous.
Chakhchoukha: Chakhchoukha is a traditional Berber dish made from shredded flatbread that is soaked in a spicy tomato-based sauce and topped with meat, vegetables, and chickpeas.
Merguez: Merguez is a spicy lamb or beef sausage that is popular in Algeria and throughout North Africa.
Mint tea: Mint tea is a popular beverage in Algeria, served with sugar and fresh mint leaves.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that you should try when visiting Algeria. Algeria has a rich culinary heritage and offers something for every taste and budget, whether you’re looking for street food or upscale restaurants.
Drinking alcohol in Algeria
Alcohol is not allowed in Islam, therefore it’s not so easily accessible in Algeria. There are plenty of liqueur stores, though. Their appearance is often not so obvious, they may be hidden in a small street. Apart from the liqueur stores, you can buy alcohol in the hotel, if there is a bar. Drinking alcohol in public is forbidden as religious people would not like to see people drinking. You can bring it to your hotel or flat.
How to get to Algeria?
The most popular airports are in Algiers and Oran. The main international airport and point of entry in Algeria is Houari Boumediene Airport, which is situated in Algiers, the capital city. The airport is well-served by intercontinental flights.
If you are coming from Europe, the cheapest way is to get to Spain or South of France and fly to Algeria with Vueling. Vueling are Spanish cheap airlines and normally you can fly one way for as cheap as 30€.
If you are coming from other parts of the world, check Turkish Airlines or any airlines from UAE, which have connecting flights to Algeria.
By land you can get to Algeria from Tunisia, the border with Morocco is closed! If you want to take your car with you to Algeria it’s possible to come also by ferry from Spain, Italy and France.
Visa to Algeria
In general, the visa to Algeria is not the easiest one and is required for most of the countries in the world. Algeria has a restrictive visa policy, with most nationalities requiring a visa to enter the country.
Algerian visas tend to be very expensive. The Algerian Embassy in the United States usually charges US$160 for any Algerian visa, so plan and prepare accordingly. As a general rule of thumb, the longer you intend to stay, the more expensive the visa will be.
An Algerian diplomatic mission can be found in almost every country. If your country does not have an Algerian diplomatic mission, in this Algeria Volunteer Travel Guide, we advise that you may need to travel to another country to apply for an Algerian visa.
Best Time to Visit Algeria
The best time to visit Algeria depends on what you want to do and see during your trip. Algeria has a hot and arid climate with long, dry summers and mild winters. The country is generally sunny year-round, but temperatures can vary significantly between regions.
If you want to explore Algeria’s desert regions or go hiking in the Atlas Mountains, the best time to visit is during the cooler months of October to April. During these months, temperatures are more comfortable, and there is less chance of extreme heat. Keep in mind that nights can be cold in the desert, so be sure to bring warm clothing.
If you’re interested in visiting Algeria’s Mediterranean coast, in this Algeria Volunteer Travel Guide, we advise the best time to visit is during the summer months of June to September. During this time, temperatures are warmer, and the water is ideal for swimming and other water activities.
However, it’s worth noting that Algeria is a large country with varying climates, and some areas may be more pleasant to visit at different times of the year. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your itinerary accordingly. Additionally, be aware that Ramadan is widely observed in Algeria, so if you plan to visit during this time, be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Sports & Activities in Algeria
Snow Sport in Algeria: The snow sports season in Algeria is relatively short, from December until March. You can try one of two places: Chrea National Park in the Blida Province or Tikjda in Djurdjura National Park.
Hiking & cycling in Algeria: The best time for outdoor activities in Algeria is from March to November, although it can always be very hot and winds cause frequent sand storms.
Beach Options in Algeria: Algeria has beautiful beaches with a summer beach season stretching from March to November with May to October being the hottest. Visit the beaches of Oran, Bejaia, Marsa Ben M’Hidi, Zeralda, Ziama Mansouriah and Tichy.
Surfing In Algeria: You can find solid swell in Algeria in November and December.
Kitesurf In Algeria: The best winds for kitesurfing in Algeria are May to September, but it’s not a particularly popular kitesurfing destination. – Algeria Volunteer Travel Guide
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