Africa's largest country — the Sahara covers 80% of it, ancient Roman ruins at Timgad rival anything in Europe, and Algiers's Casbah UNESCO medina tumbles down to the Mediterranean in a cascade of white.
- Capital
- Algiers
- Population
- 47,400,000
- Area
- 2,381,740 km²
- Languages
- Arabic
- Currency
- Algerian Dinar (DZD)
- GDP
- $268,885M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
Couscous
Annual visitors
591,000 (2020)
Safety
Low (1.16/100k)
Avg temp
23.6°C
Religion
Islam
Coast
Coastal
☎ Police 17 · Ambulance 21606666 · Fire 14
Travel guide
Algeria (Arabic: الجزائر, al-Jazāʾir; Algerian Arabic: الدزاير, al-dzayir; Berber: ⴷⵣⴰⵢⴻⵔ, dzayer; French: Algérie) is the largest country in Africa. Overlooked by many travellers, the country is bursting with beauty waiting to be discovered. From the bustling markets of Algiers to the pristine beaches of its Mediterranean coast, from the jaw-droppingly beautiful mountains of the north to the mesmerising deep reaches of the Sahara desert to the south, there is something for almost everyone to explore. Enjoy traditional cuisine, explore the ancient ruins, take in the breathtaking views, and then breathe in a world where few travellers tread. Algeria, and in particular Algerian hospitality, will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Algeria
Best time to visit
March–May and October–November are ideal for northern Algeria. Sahara desert visits best October–March. Summers are very hot (50°C in the desert). Algiers has a Mediterranean climate, pleasant April–June and September–October.
Visa
Algeria has a relatively restrictive visa policy. Citizens of most Western countries including US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia must apply for a tourist visa in advance at Algerian embassies.
Highlights
Situated 900 m above sea-level, Djémila, or Cuicul, with its forum, temples, basilicas, triumphal arches and houses, is an interesting example of Roman town planning adapted to a mountain location.
Public holidays
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (7)
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