A first-timer's guide to Algeria

Written by: Aimee White - Travel Copywriter at Explore Worldwide
Published: April 24 2025

Algeria is a country full of surprises and superlatives: it's the largest country in Africa, is home to over 80% of the Sahara Desert and has some of the largest collections of Roman remains outside of Italy.

While this North African destination has been firmly off the tourist map in recent years, it's now becoming easier to visit. With so much to see and experience, discover the Sahara Desert, ancient citadels, coastal cities and more on our Algeria's Sahara Desert Adventure, Wonders of Ancient Algeria and the M'Zab Valley and Ancient Algeria and the Sahara Desert trips.

Read on to discover everything you need to know about visiting Algeria for the first time:

1. Where is Algeria?
2. What is Algeria known for?
3. Where are the best places to visit in Algeria?
4. Top travel tips for Algeria
    

Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert covers much of southern Algeria, and tops many adventurous travel bucket lists. Of course, this vast, arid region is famed for its sand dunes, rocky plateaus and extreme temperatures, but the desert is also home to prehistoric rock art and nomadic cultures.

Spend nine days in the heart of the Sahara Desert and visit some of Algeria's desert cities, like Djanet and Tadrart, which are renowned as gateways to the humungous Tassili n'Ajjer National Park and Tadrart Rouge mountains.

Ancient History

Algeria has one of the finest collections of Roman ruins in North Africa, if not the world. With that in mind, this lesser-visited country is ideal for history lovers - and our 10-day itinerary takes you to some of the most impressive forums, temples, houses, thermal baths, grid streets and plenty more.

It's not all about the Romans, though, as Algeria also has many influences from the Berbers, Byzantines and Arabs, too. Some of the best ancient sites to visit in Algeria include Tipaza, a site founded by the Carthaginians, and the Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania, which houses the final resting place of the last king and queen of Numidia.

Cuisine

Algerian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavours, blending Mediterranean, Berber and Arabic influences. Key dishes include couscous (usually served with meat and vegetables), tagines (slow-cooked stews) and brik (crispy meat-filled pastries). Throw in a range of spices like cumin and saffron, and you're left with a feast of aromatic and tasty meals.

Vegetarians, vegans and those with gluten intolerances may find food selections limited, especially in the Sahara region. Alcohol isn't widely available in Algeria, except for the larger cities (like Algiers) in the north of the country. Discover more food origins from across the world here.

M'zab Valley

There's no denying it: if you're traveling to Algeria, you can't miss the M'Zab Valley. Set in the heart of the Sahara Desert, the M'Zab Valley is a traditional human habitat that today forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five 10th-century fortified cities (known as ksour) remain on the edge of the Sahara, and are famed for their simple yet distinctive architecture.

Explore desert cities such as Ghardaia and neighbouring villages, with visits to mosques, local markets and the sacred Islamic town of Beni Yezguen. To complete the experience, sit down for a traditional lunch of okra stew, shorba and bourek at a local family home or small restaurant.

Algiers

Algiers is the capital city of Algeria, and it's in the country's largest city you'll find many of Algeria's best tourist attractions. This bustling Mediterranean port is dominated by its imposing Citadel walls, and while you're in Algiers, visit the seafront Bastion 23 Palace and Church of Notre Dame d'Afrique. You'll also have fun getting lost in the maze of alleyways, roaming through palaces and admiring mosques in the Kasbah quarter of the old town. Our Algeria tours make sure you see all the highlights of Algiers.

Constantine

Another popular city to visit in Algeria is Constantine, nicknamed the 'city of bridges'. Visit the Ottoman-era Palace of Ahmed Bey, walk along the Boulevard of the Abyss and cross the iconic Sidi M'Cid suspension bridge before visiting the National Museum of Cirta, which is jam-packed with ancient relics.

To the east of Constantine lies Djemila, one of the most significant Roman sites in North Africa, as it highlights how the Romans skilfully adapted to mountain settings. There's no doubt you'll be awed by the mosaic-clad walls, triumphal arches and structural remains of houses and temples here.

Timgad

Timgad is nicknamed the 'Pompeii of Africa' for good reason - it's one of the best historical sites in Algeria. The UNESCO-listed ancient citadel was constructed under Roman Emperor Trajan as a military base to defend against the Berbers. Its well-preserved streets, a forum and theatre, and the ruins of several baths provide a fascinating insight into ancient daily life.