10 Must-Visit Spots to Experience the Wonders of Algeria

Rich in surprises, Algeria is a dream destination for adventurous travelers.

As the largest country in Africa, Algeria boasts a 1600km (994-mile) coastline adorned with beautiful sandy beaches and historic cities featuring some of the finest Roman ruins globally. Further inland, the stunning desert landscape offers authentic oasis towns, expansive sand dunes, and ancient volcanic mountains filled with rare prehistoric carvings and artworks.

Historically, Algeria was among the most challenging countries to visit, but that’s changing. Tourist visas are becoming easier to obtain (just be prepared for a two-month processing time), and more flights are available from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Intrigued? Continue reading to discover 10 destinations in this remarkable country that is poised to gain the recognition it truly deserves.

The Arch of Trajan stands as a centerpiece among the impressive Roman remnants at Timgad. Shutterstock

1. Timgad

Ideal for enthusiasts of grand Roman architecture

The UNESCO World Heritage Roman ruins at Timgad were commissioned by Emperor Trajan around 100 CE. Strategically located at a key pass through the Aurès Mountains, this site allowed Rome to control access to the Sahara. Often referred to as North Africa’s Pompeii, Timgad exemplifies Roman urban design, with its city planned like a chessboard across 50 hectares (123 acres). Plan for a full day to wander through the forums, temples, markets, baths, theaters, law courts, and villas, as well as a rare public library. Don’t miss the inscription in the forum: “venari lavari ludere ridere occ est vivere” (“to hunt, to go to the bath, to play, to laugh: this is to live”). The museum on-site features 200 beautifully preserved floor mosaics.

Travel tip: Timgad is quite exposed, so be sure to bring a hat and ample water during summer. In winter or spring, a jacket is necessary due to the chilly and windy conditions.

The Sidi M’Cid Bridge connects to the extraordinary cliffside city of Constantine. Shutterstock

2. Constantine

Perfect for those wishing to admire one of the most remarkably situated cities in the world

Since the 4th century BCE, Constantine has perched on a rocky outcrop above the Rhumel River, surrounded by deep ravines reaching 200m (656ft). It's fascinating to appreciate the brilliance behind this uniquely situated city—perfect for capturing photos from the Sidi M’Cid Bridge and the Monument aux Morts, a WWI memorial that provides stunning panoramic views. Once you explore the streets, be sure to visit the intricately adorned Ottoman Palace of Ahmed Bey, the National Museum, and the strikingly modern Emir Abdelkader Mosque, one of the largest in Africa.

Travel tip: Non-Muslims can enter mosques in Algeria outside of prayer times, so plan your visits accordingly.

In Annaba, you can reflect on the contributions of the esteemed early-Christian bishop, philosopher, and theologian St Augustine. Fares Makrouf/Getty Images

3. Annaba

Ideal for tracing the legacy of North African Christian pioneer

Charming Annaba is the historic home of Amazigh theologian St Augustine, a pivotal figure known as the 'Father' of the Catholic Church, who taught and authored works foundational to contemporary Christian theology. He served as bishop of Roman Hippo Regius, now a picturesque ruin on the outskirts of town. Perched on a hill is the Basilica de Saint Augustine, constructed by the French in the late 19th century, overlooking the Basilica of Peace, where Augustine preached and was eventually buried. The site remains cared for by Annaba’s Augustinian community and is a destination for Catholic pilgrims.

Travel tip: Often overlooked, Annaba boasts a stunning coastal location, a charming old town, and beautiful sandy beaches.

The rock art in Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, depicting hunters and animals, dates back tens of thousands of years. Shutterstock

4. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park

Ideal for experiencing the world’s oldest art gallery

Tassili N’Ajjer National Park spans 72,000 sq km (27,800 sq miles) of breathtaking desert landscape, featuring a surreal sandstone rock forest adorned with 15,000 prehistoric petroglyphs and vibrant rock paintings of elephants, giraffes, and buffalo. These artworks serve as a glimpse into the Saharan steppeland, where Neolithic herders coexisted with giant wild animals around 10,000 to 15,000 years ago. To fully explore all of Tassili’s wonders, plan for a complete 10-day adventure, though shorter tours of 5 or 6 days are also available.

Travel tip: The remote town of Djanet (accessible via Air Algérie) serves as the entry point to Tassili n’Ajjer National Park. For safety, travelers are officially required to be accompanied by a guide or agency when exploring the desert.

Wandering through the winding alleys of the Casbah in Algiers is an enchanting experience. Isa Terli/Anadolu via Getty Images

5. Algiers

Perfect for uncovering a capital full of character

Perched above a stunning crescent bay, Algeria’s capital city is rich in atmosphere, featuring captivating Ottoman and art deco architecture, along with cafes that play haabi—a unique Muslim-Jewish musical fusion born in the city’s ancient streets. The historic core of Algiers, the Casbah, resembles a labyrinth of staircases, ancient palaces, and mosques. After French colonization in 1830, the city was surrounded by Parisian-style boulevards, and enhancements included the botanical garden Jardin d’Essai, the Bardo National Museum, and the basilica of Notre-Dame d’Afrique. The Martyrs Monument, Maqam Echahid, marks the southern edge of the city, honoring those who perished in the struggle for independence, achieved in 1962.

Travel tip: Navigate the Casbah with a guide from Fancyellow. If time allows, consider a day trip to the remarkable Roman ruins of Tipasa and Cherchell.

The Great Mosque of Tlemcen, built in the 11th century, is a stunning architectural treasure. Samere Fahim Photography/Getty Images

6. Tlemcen

Ideal for experiencing exquisite medieval architecture

Tlemcen is a stunning showcase of medieval mosques and palaces nestled within a lush pine forest. During the 12th and 13th centuries, it emerged as a center of scholarship and commerce, rivaling Fez, Tunis, and Granada, trading gold from Timbuktu and salt from Taghaza with Europe. This rich history is reflected in the hybrid Hispano-Moorish design of the Great Mosque (1082), an Almoravid masterpiece, and the El Mechouar citadel, which draws inspiration from Spain’s Alhambra. On the town’s western edge, the remnants of the military camp El Mansourah (1299) feature a 40m (131ft) minaret, closely resembling Seville’s Giralda.

Side Note: Tlemcen holds spiritual importance due to the tomb of Sidi Boumediene, situated 1.6km (1 mile) southeast of the city. A short 10-minute drive will take you to the El Ourit waterfalls, and it’s only half an hour to the stalactite-filled Grottes des Beni Add.

The otherworldly basalt formations of the remote Ahaggar National Park. iStock

7. Ahaggar National Park

Ideal for experiencing a sense of being at the world's edge

Older than Tassili, the Hoggar Mountains in Ahaggar National Park are striking volcanic basalt buttes that rise steeply from the desert floor. Ancient river valleys cut through them on their journey to Lake Chad, adorned with numerous petroglyphs and paintings depicting wild animals and charioteers, believed to represent the Garamantian ancestors of the Tuareg tribes. Weekly camel treks and 4x4 tours depart from Tamanrasset to the lofty Assekrem plateau (2728m / 8950ft), aptly named 'the end of the world.' Stay at the hostel for a breathtaking dawn view over the Atakor massif.

Travel Tip: Be prepared to tip guides and drivers an amount equivalent to an additional day's pay for every week they work.

Amazigh followers of the Ibadite sect, known as Mozabites, reside in the fortified towns of the M’Zab Valley. Shutterstock

8. Ghardaïa and the M’Zab Valley

Best for discovering hidden desert citadels

The Pentapolis in the M’Zab Valley comprises five ksours (citadels) constructed between 1012 and 1350, collectively known as Ghardaïa after the main citadel. This collection of fortified cities is one of Algeria's most intriguing sites. They are home to the Mozabites, an Amazigh tribe that follows the conservative Ibadite sect, upholding unique social customs and attire, and allowing outsiders entry only when accompanied. Hire a guide to navigate these secluded communities, including the Sidi Brahim mosque in El-Atteuf, which inspired Le Corbusier. Don’t miss the carpets in Ghardaïa’s market, as weaving is a cherished tradition here.

Travel Tip: To explore Ghardaïa, tourists must join a group tour with the necessary permits; consider Algeria Tours. Inside the ksours, it's essential to adhere to community regulations, including modest dress, no smoking, and avoiding photographs of individuals.

The ancient mosaics of Djemila are truly breathtaking. hamdi bendali/Shutterstock

9. Sétif & Djemila

Best for stunning ancient mosaics

The archaeological museum in Sétif boasts some of the finest Roman mosaics globally, including the exceptional Triumph of Dionysus. Most of the artifacts originate from Djemila (formerly known as Cuicul), a UNESCO World Heritage Roman site perched on a scenic hillside in the Petit Kabyle mountains, making it a must-visit. You can explore the beautiful ruins in about half a day, though you may wish to stay longer to take in the breathtaking views. An impressive on-site museum showcases incredible mosaics that adorn nearly all wall spaces.

Travel Tip: The easiest way to reach Djemila is from Sétif (1 hour) or Constantine (1 hour). Consider staying at Hotel Tadj el Mouada in Sétif or Novotel Constantine.

The dunes surrounding Timimoun stretch endlessly into the horizon. Ghulam Hussain/Getty Images

10. Timimoun

Best for experiencing oasis life and thrilling dune adventures

Timimoun, located in Central Algeria, is a breathtaking desert oasis perched on an escarpment that offers views of a sebkha (salt flat) and the rolling sands of the Grand Erg Occidental. This remote landscape feels like another planet, with the red-hued town rising dramatically from the ground like an artistic formation. From here, venturing into the desert is a must. Many hotels can arrange activities like quad biking and sandboarding nearby. You can also explore the Sebkha Circuit, which leads to abandoned villages crumbling under the sun as you navigate the towering dunes.

Travel Tip: The S’Boue Festival in Timimoun lasts a week, attracting thousands who gather to celebrate at the mausoleum of Sidi El Hadj Belkacem, enjoying sacred music, poetry, and traditional dances.