Algeria

Algeria is officially known as the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria. Although the term "People's Republic" is commonly associated with communist states, Algeria is not a communist country. The term was adopted primarily because Algeria gained its independence through a revolutionary struggle against France.

Algeria is a multi-party republic with a strong executive branch led by a president. The president is both the head of state and the commander in chief of the army, and is elected by popular vote for a five-year term.

Legislative power is vested in the two chambers of Parliament, the Council of the Nation and the People's National Assembly.

• Arabic: الجمهورية الجزائرية الديمقراطية الشعبية, al-Jumhūriyya al-Jazāʾiriyya ad-Dīmuqrāṭiyya aš-Šaʿbiyya

• Berber: ⵜⴰⴳⴷⵓⴷⴰ ⵜⴰⵎⴳⴷⴰⵢⵜ ⵜⴰⵖⵔⴼⴰⵏⵜ ⵜⴰⴷⵣⴰⵢⵔⵉⵢⵜ, Tagduda tamegdayt taɣerfant tazzayrit

• French: République algérienne démocratique et populaire (lit, Democratic and Popular Algerian Republic)

Algeria covers an area of 2,381,741 square kilometres (919,595 sq mi), making it the world's tenth-largest country and the largest country in Africa. It is slightly larger than Mexico, four times smaller than the United States, and nearly 200 times larger than Africa's smallest country, Gambia.

Algeria is made up of 58 provinces and more than 1,541 communes.

The history of Algeria can be traced back to the earliest civilisations that inhabited the region and beyond. The earliest known inhabitants of Algeria were the Berber people, who have inhabited the region since at least 10,000 BCE. From the 8th century BCE, Phoenician traders established trading posts along the North African coast, introducing the region to the wider Mediterranean world.

In the 7th century CE, Algeria was conquered by the Islamic Umayyad Caliphate and subsequently came under the rule of various Muslim dynasties. The region was colonised by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century and remained under Ottoman control until 1830.

French rule in Algeria began in 1830 when France invaded the region, defeated the Ottoman forces, and established a colonial administration. Algeria was formally annexed and split into French departments in 1848.

French authorities introduced a number of reforms, such as land reform, the secularisation of education, and the introduction of new laws and infrastructure. However, these policies were often accompanied by oppressive measures such as forced labor, restrictions on religious expression, and the suppression of opposition.

Algerians were treated very poorly by the French. Algerians were subjected to oppressive laws, such as the Code de l'indigénat, which denied them basic rights and freedoms. They were heavily taxed, forcibly conscripted into the French military, and stripped of their land and resources. Algerians were also subjected to violence, torture, and other forms of mistreatment by French colonial authorities.

The Algerian War for Independence was a bloody eight-year conflict between the French colonial government in Algeria and the National Liberation Front (FLN), a nationalist movement that sought to end French rule and establish an independent Algerian state. The war lasted from 1954 to 1962 and resulted in the death of over 1 million people, the displacement of over 5 million people, and the eventual independence of Algeria as a nation.

The Algerian War for Independence began on November 1, 1954, when the FLN launched a series of attacks against French military and police outposts throughout Algeria. The FLN hoped to spark a popular uprising against French rule, and the attacks were largely successful. The French responded with a massive campaign of repression, employing torture, summary executions, and collective punishments against the population.

The war soon escalated, with the FLN launching guerrilla attacks against French forces, while the French launched counter-insurgency operations that included the use of napalm and other forms of indiscriminate violence. The war was also characterized by atrocities on both sides, including the massacre of civilians by French forces and the use of torture by the FLN.

The war ended in 1962, when the French agreed to a cease-fire and granted Algeria its independence. After declaring independence in 1962, Algeria underwent a period of political turbulence.

Immediately following independence, the FLN assumed power and established a single-party government. Under the leadership of President Houari Boumediene, Algeria adopted a socialist economic system and sought to strengthen ties with other Arab and African countries.

In the late 1970s, Algeria’s economic situation deteriorated and the government’s popularity declined. In response, the government began to crack down on political dissent and religious expression, leading to an Islamist insurgency.

The Algerian Civil War was a brutal conflict that caused great suffering to the Algerian people. Over 200,000 people lost their lives in the war, and more than 1 million were displaced. The conflict also had a lasting effect on Algeria's economy and society, as the country struggled to rebuild after the war. Although the conflict officially ended in 2002, its legacy continues to shape the country today.

The conflict began with the cancellation of the 1992 general elections, which saw the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) poised to win a majority of seats in the National Assembly. The Algerian government, a military-backed regime, responded by banning the FIS and arresting its members, sparking a long and bloody conflict.

The war was fought between the government and various rebel groups, most notably the Armed Islamic Group (GIA) and the Islamic Salvation Army (AIS). The GIA initially sought to overthrow the government and impose an Islamic state. As the conflict progressed, however, they became increasingly brutal and indiscriminate in their tactics, leading to a sharp decline in popular support. The AIS, on the other hand, sought to negotiate with the government for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Throughout the war, the government employed a range of tactics to combat the rebels. These included a massive deployment of troops, aerial bombardments, and the use of torture and other forms of human rights abuses. The government also sought to co-opt the population by providing economic incentives and social services, such as free health care and education.

Since the end of the civil war, Algeria has experienced an economic boom due to increased oil and gas production. This has led to a marked reduction in poverty and unemployment.

In 2006, the Algerian government approved a new constitution, which aimed to protect human rights and improve the country’s political and economic situation. This resulted in a period of political reform, as well as an increase in foreign investment.

Despite its economic progress, Algeria is still facing several challenges. These include high unemployment, poverty, and corruption. The country is also struggling with terrorism, with attacks by extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/ISIS/IS).

Officially, 220 V 50 Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 "Schukostecker" or "Schuko", or the compatible, but not always grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types. Canadian and US travellers should pack an adapter for these outlets if they plan to use North American electrical equipment in Algeria.

Entry will be refused to citizens of Israel and travellers that have passports with any evidence of having visited Israel.

Nationals of Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, the Western Sahara, Seychelles and Tunisia, in addition to refugees and stateless persons residing in these countries, may enter Algeria visa-free for up to 90 days. All other nationalities require a visa.

Visas on arrival can be obtained if the applicant has booked an organized tour of the southern Sahara regions, which includes: Tamanrasset, Djanet, and Tassili N’Ajjer National Park and the tour operator submits the required paperwork in advance. The length of the visa varies and is at the discretion of the government officials on arrival.

Other visas can be obtained from the diplomatic mission, embassy, or consulate of Algeria in the applicant's home country; submission of photos, documentation, insurance information, proof of funds, itineraries, and payment of fees is likely to be required.

Most visitors normally enter Algeria by plane.

The main international airport and point of entry in Algeria is Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG ^IATA), which is situated in Algiers, the capital city. The airport is well-served by intercontinental flights.

The Algerian train company is named SNTF and tickets can be bought at train stations. On-line booking does not appear to be possible any more; timetables are subject to changes; the best way is to ask at the train station. The network in the north is dense. You can reach Algeria by train from Tunisia, although you will have to change trains at the border post. All border points with Morocco are closed.

If you can, try to catch the newer trains as they are more comfortable and climate-controlled.

Algeria shares borders with six countries: Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, and Morocco.

Driving into Algeria from Tunisia is the safest option.

The Algerian-Moroccan border has been closed since 1994 and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

If you like, you're more than welcome to visit settlements along the border.

The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the fluid security and political situation in Libya make the Algerian-Libyan border incredibly insecure.

While there is a notional border crossing near Tindouf, the area is considered a Mauritanian military zone and travellers are rarely granted permission to cross the border.

The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the unstable political situation in Mali make the Algerian-Malian border incredibly insecure.

The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the unstable political situation in Niger make the Algerian-Nigerien border incredibly insecure.

The prices aren't usually cheaper than flying so if you can and have no car nor any huge amount of baggage, take a plane. Most connections are offered by Algérie Ferries.

From Spain:

• Alicante to Algiers and Oran
• Almeria to Ghazaouet and Oran
• Barcelona to Algiers
• Valencia to Mostaganem

From France:

Marseille to

• Algiers
• Bejaia
• Oran
• Skikda

From Italy:

• Napoli to Tunis & take a road for 1 hour
• Roma (Civitavecchia) to Tunis & take a road for 1 hour

Due to the country's immense geography, the uncertain security situation, and the lack of adequately developed infrastructure, the most convenient way of getting around the country is by plane.

Algeria has a very small airlines industry ― only four airline companies operate in the country ― and all the airline companies are owned by the government.

The two main airline companies are as follows:

• Air Algérie is Algeria's national carrier and offers flights to almost any Algerian city. The airline uses Houari Boumediene Airport as its hub.

• Tassili Airlines, like Air Algérie, uses Houari Boumediene Airport as its hub and will take you all over Algeria. It is a subsidiary of Sonatrach, the largest company in Africa and one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world.

It's usual to take a taxi to travel near or in cities. The prices are pretty moderate but when travelling between bigger cities with large distances taxis are the same or more expensive as flying. Try to avoid unofficial taxis since it's very likely the driver will rip you off. Most taxis have no taximeter so arrange a price in advance. Many drivers will try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge but never pay more than DA30 per km regardless of what you are told. Tipping is not necessary but you can round up to the next DA10.

Uber doesn't operate in Algeria, but a similar app named Yassir does.

The road network is well developed in the north. The Algerian government has made much improvements regarding road building; new highways were built to replace the older roads. The most important highway is the 1200 km long N1 (Route est-ouest) from Annaba to Oran, almost all bigger cities in the north are connected to this highway including Algiers.

A car is not absolutely necessary because of the well run public transportation system, but could be sometimes useful to reach more remote areas. Keep in mind that the driving habits of the locals are completely different compared to those of Europeans and that driving rules and prohibitive signs are more seen as guidelines, even by the police! It would be a wise decision letting a local Algerian do the driving for you in the first few days to get an impression of the driving style. If this is not possible it's recommended to stay on the highways.

Do not try to reach the Saharan areas with a car other than a 4x4: occasional dunes on the roads and extreme temperature changes will offer a challenge for the driver and the car.

As of 2018, fuel did not cost more than DA50 a liter.

Algerian railways are operated by SNTF; the trains and lines are being modernised. Ten comfortable high-speed trains named Autorail were bought, and two of them are in operation. Though the website is useful for checking times etc, tickets can not be bought online, only at the train stations. Prices are quite moderate but more expensive than buses or taxis, but in return you will have more comfort and enjoy wonderful landscapes.

Main routes:

• Algiers to Oran, five daily departures from Agha Station, this journey takes 4-5 hours, 2nd Class: DA900-1130, 1st Class: DA1200-1530.
• Algiers to Annaba, departing each evening at 19:40 and arriving in Annaba (via Constantine) at 05:38 the following morning. 2nd Class: DA900, 1st Class: DA1270.
• Algiers to Constantine as above

Other routes:

• Algiers to Touggourt, departing daily at 18:10, arriving in Touggourt at 05:00 the following morning. 2nd Class: DA1500, 1st Class: DA2005.
• Oran to Bechar, two daily departures. A daytime train leaves Oran at 10:20, while the night-train leaves at 20:30. 2nd Class: DA975, 1st Class: DA1370.
• Annaba to Tebessa, leaving Annaba at 16:40 and arriving in Tebessa at 21:49. 2nd Class: DA255, 1st Class: DA360.

Algeria has one of the most developed tram networks in all of Africa. As of 2023, there are tram networks in six major cities: Algiers, Oran, Constantine, Sidi Bel Abbes, Ouargla, and Setif.

The agency responible for the operation and maintenance of the tram network is Société d'exploitation des tramways (SETRAM).

Getting around Algeria by tram is remarkably economical; a ticket typically costs DA40. You may buy a ticket at a designated tram kiosk and you can get all the information you need at a tram kiosk.

Overview of the tram system in Algeria:

• Algiers: 23 kilometres long and has 37 stops.
• Oran: 32 kilometres long and has 19 stops.
• Constantine: 18 kilometres long and has 21 stops.
• Sidi Bel Abbès: 14 kilometres long and has 22 stops.
• Ouargla: 10 kilometres long and has 16 stops.
• Setif: 15 kilometres long and has 26 stops.

Due to its highly mountainous and massive geography, Algeria has an extensive cable car network.

Algeria, much like neighbouring Libya, takes pride in its remarkable ancient ruins. Step back in time and explore the remnants of the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations that have left an indelible mark on this land. Embarking on a journey to these magnificent ruins will transport you back in time and unveil the fascinating history of Algeria's ancient civilizations.

Prepare to be awe-inspired by some of the most renowned archaeological sites in Algeria:

• Timgad near Batna: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this ancient Roman city, known as "The Pompeii of Africa." Marvel at the well-preserved ruins.

• Hippo Regius at Annaba: Walk in the footsteps of history at this coastal city where the famous philosopher Saint Augustine once resided. Explore the impressive remains of Roman structures, including a basilica and amphitheater.

• Djemila at Sétif: Delight in the splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site, once a Roman military colony. Admire the well-preserved forum, temples, houses, and stunning mosaic artworks.

• Calama at Guelma: Uncover the secrets of this ancient Roman city, renowned for its exceptional mosaics. Roam through the ruins of temples, basilicas, and the intriguing Roman theater.

• Tipasa: Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry of Tipasa, where ruins from the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine empires coexist. Marvel at the archaeological site, which includes a theater, amphitheater, basilica, and captivating views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Algeria's greatest tourist possibilities lie in the Sahara; there's no other place on Earth that can offer the same level of awe-inspiring experiences in this vast desert landscape.

The crown jewel of these adventures lies within the M'zab Valley, the epicenter of Mozabite culture. Prepare to be captivated by the five interconnected cities that form a breathtaking architectural playground, reminiscent of modern cubist and surrealist art. These cities are not just places to see, but experiences to be lived, leaving an indelible impression on your journey.

Marvel at the harsh yet majestic Saharan Atlas mountains, their rugged peaks standing as a testament to the forces of nature. Traverse the endless expanse of the desert and explore the towering Hoggar Mountains surrounding the desert capital of Tamanrasset.

Feel the thrill of adventure as you encounter the vast dune field of the Grand Erg Oriental at El-Oued, an otherworldly landscape that will leave you in awe.

Uncover Algeria's ancient history etched in stone as you discover the remarkable rock carvings of Djelfa and the Saharan National Park of Tassili N'Ajjer. These extraordinary sites showcase a treasure trove of prehistoric art, transporting you back in time and connecting you with the rich cultural heritage of the region.

While Algeria's major cities may not boast the same level of tourist attractions as its exotic locales, they offer a unique perspective on the country's modern culture, Islamic heritage, and colonial legacy. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the lesser-known treasures that lie within.

• Algiers, the renowned White City, may not be as heavily touristic as one would expect, considering its pivotal role in Algeria's economic, political, and cultural life. Nevertheless, as all visitors pass through Algiers, exploring the historic seventeenth-century center known as the Casbah is a must. Wander through its labyrinthine streets, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and witness the blend of influences from various civilizations.

• Oran, the country's second-largest city, boasts a captivating blend of modernity and historical charm. Discover its vibrant arts scene, visit the iconic Santa Cruz Fort, and indulge in the city's lively ambiance.

• Tlemcen, a city steeped in history, will captivate you with its architectural marvels, such as the Grand Mosque and the beautiful Mansourah Mosque.

• Constantine stands as a major city deserving a spot on your itinerary. Known as the City of Bridges, it showcases a fascinating fusion of Roman, Arab, and Ottoman influences. Marvel at the impressive bridges that span deep gorges, explore the ancient ruins of Tiddis, and soak in the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable city.

Algeria boasts stunning Mediterranean beaches that will captivate beach lovers. Experience the vibrant marine life with beautiful fish, enchanting sea plants, and an array of stunning shells. The shores offer a variety of sands, from yellow and white to black. Whether you enjoy fishing, swimming, or simply basking in the beauty of a breathtaking sunset, Algeria's beaches have it all. The Turquoise Coast in Oran stands out as one of the country's finest beach destinations, perfect for relaxation. Annaba, Skikda, and Ghazaouet also offer beautiful coastal spots. For visitors near Algiers, the resort town of Sidi Fredj is an undeniable gem.

Algerian is more than just a barren, flat, hot desert country. The country boasts an array of beautiful national parks brimming with natural beauty.

Algerian currency is the Algerian dinar, denoted by the symbol "د.ج" or "DA" (ISO code: DZD). There are coins of DA5, DA10, DA20, DA50, DA100 and DA200. Banknotes are issued in denominations of DA100, DA200, DA500, DA1,000 and DA2,000.

Money can be exchanged at banks or post offices. Make sure the exchanged bills are in good condition; people tend to be picky with accepting ripped and older bills. Be careful with currencies other than euros or US dollars: finding a bank that exchanges less common currencies could be complicated.

A better exchange rate can usually be found by exchanging money through unofficial money changers on street corners. There are locations where this is a widespread practice. The exchange rate offered is generally better than the official rate. It seems to be a very safe practice and is often done in view of police, who don't seem concerned.

ATMs are widely available and can be found in every post office or larger bank where you can withdraw Algerian dinar with any major credit card and Maestro cards. If a pin with six numbers is necessary, enter two zeros before your pin.

Many Algerian-branded ATMs don't work for foreign cards (even when showing that they support Mastercard or Visa). You may have luck with Societé Générale ATMs.

Generally speaking, Algeria is very cash-based, and most establishments won't accept credit cards. Some hotels do (in particular larger establishments), but many don't. Bringing an ample supply of Euros or US dollars in cash can result in much cheaper travel by taking advantage of the much better exchange rates offered by the unofficial exchange market, as mentioned above.

Algeria has had a parallel currency exchange market for several years, e.g. with exchange rates in August 2018 being DA215 to the euro at the parallel market versus around 140 to the US dollar at the official Forex market. Thus, travellers willing to exchange euros will be roughly 50% more purchasing power. However, take care if exchanging on the parallel market: beware of the possibility of fake bills.

Algeria is a remarkably economical country; an underground metro ticket normally costs DA50 and the monthly rent for an apartment, depending on the area, is between DA40,000-100,000 per month.

DA100-1,000 will get you a full meal or a bus ride from one major city to another.

Since gaining independence in 1962, Algeria has experienced a long history of political instability. Anti-government protests and demonstrations are not uncommon, and they can turn violent pretty quickly.

Do not take part in political protests or make strongly worded comments against the government on social media; people, including dual citizens of Algeria, have been prevented from leaving the country for doing that.

Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings; if you see any signs of a protest or disturbance, you should leave the area immediately and seek a safe place.

It is strongly recommended that you monitor and listen to local media during your stay in Algeria.

See also: Hot weather

90% of the country is covered by the Sahara desert. Algeria is a very hot country and temperatures can go as high as 50 °C (122 °F). Be sure to hydrate often and wear appropriate clothing to deal with the heat.

Areas near the borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania are unsafe due to general lawlessness. Generally speaking, tourists have little or no reason to go to those areas as they have nothing that interests tourists. If you intend to drive into one of those countries, it's recommended that you get an armed escort.

Algeria has strict laws concerning the export of antiquities. If you buy a souvenir that looks old or antiquated, try to obtain the necessary documentation for it. Better to be safe than sorry. Not doing so will land you in serious trouble with the Algerian authorities.

Algeria may be replete with wonderful photo opportunities, but you should steer clear of photographing government buildings, security installations, or military/law enforcement personnel.

As is the case throughout the Arab world and the Middle East, homosexuality is frowned upon by the vast majority of Algerians. Open display of such orientations may result in open contempt and possible violence.

Algeria is, to a significant extent, a welcoming country. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Algerian culture, and Algerians consider it shameful not to give a guest a warm welcome.

This being said, Black-skinned people may be incorrectly assumed to be migrants from the Sahel and may attract unwanted attention from the authorities.

If you are an Algerian citizen – being a dual citizen of Algeria or having an Algerian father – possessing another passport will not exempt you from mandatory military service (applicable to men only) and grant you consular access and protection in the event you get detained or arrested.

If you are married to an Algerian, you do not require permission from your husband to depart the country.

Foreign women often attract the attention of Algerian men. Being overly friendly to or making direct eye contact with an Algerian man may cause him to think that you're "into" him.

Be warned that some men may sexually harass you. If this ever happens, don't be afraid to create a scene and don't feel the need to be polite; no woman should put up with rotten behaviour like that.

Domestic politics are both highly sensitive and polarised. Algerians, in general, have a strained relationship with their government and it is common for them to express feelings of frustration, annoyance, and anger towards their government and politicians. While it's not a social faux pas to discuss politics, try to avoid stating your opinion on local politics; Algerians may not appreciate what you have to say.

Avoid talking about Morocco. Although there are strong cultural, religious, and historical ties between the two nations, Algerian-Moroccan relations have been strained by several social and political issues.

Avoid being overly enthusiastic about France. The French occupation of Algeria was a period of great suffering for many Algerians. Thousands of Algerians were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the French, and Algerians feel that France hasn't done enough to acknowledge the harm it has caused to Algeria. In France, Algerians are sometimes discriminated against and treated with a degree of contempt. If you are of French-Algerian heritage, you should be extra careful; demonstrations of enthusiasm for France might get you labelled as a "harki" (a historically contested term with negative connotations) or a "traitor".

Ethnicity is a very sensitive subject in Algeria. The Berbers, who make up 15-20% of the population, have a long history of being mistreated by the Arab-dominated Algerian government and have long struggled for autonomy and cultural rights. It would be considered awkward to ask an Algerian about what their ethnicity is; it could cause them to believe that you are questioning their loyalty to Algeria. Keep in mind that some Algerians believe that Algeria is not an Arab country.

Try to not discuss the Algerian Civil War. Tens of thousands of Algerians perished during the war and it is still a wound in the national consciousness.

Islam is the state religion of Algeria, and is, at least on paper, practiced by 99% of the population. That being said, there's no special dress code in effect and Algerians are generally not as religious as their Arab counterparts. Algerian dress styles are generally similar to European dress styles. It's advisable to dress conservatively so that you don't stand out like a sore thumb.

• When visiting sites of religious importance, behave and dress well. Some mosques may be off limits to non-Muslims. If in doubt, ask.

• During Ramadan, you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as insensitive and disrespectful.

• Anything hinting at proselytism will neither be appreciated nor welcomed.

All cigarettes are sold freely.

Smoking in the presence of someone who is not a smoker in a public place requires his permission. If someone does not like the smoke, coughs, or asks you not to smoke, just stop and say sorry. This is what the locals do. If you are invited to someone's house, do not smoke unless the host does and after he does, you can ask for permission to smoke.

If you are in a restaurant or coffee terrace where people smoke, you can smoke, but if you are with locals who are not smokers, ask them first if it is okay. Fewer and fewer people smoke, because of a global health awareness campaign.

If you are a non-smoker, you will still find it unpleasant in many public places because of smoking.

There are 3 main mobile services in Algeria - Mobilis, Djezzy and Ooredoo (previously Nedima). It is easy to procure a pre-paid sim card for one of these operators at any airport. In February 2022, a SIM card with 60 GB of data was sold by Ooredoo for DA2500. There are several general stores all over the country which will sell you refill cards for these carriers. 3G services were launched on 1 December 2013, and 4G is available in a selection of major cities by all carriers.

The only internet provider is the government owned Algerie Telecom which offers ADSL internet with speeds that vary from 1 Mbps to 20 Mbps and prices of DA1600 to DA7200 respectively. 4G LTE is also available, but speeds are very slow and service is not very good in rural areas.