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Algeria is a country in the Maghreb region of northern Africa. Its land area is the largest among African, Mediterranean, and Arab countries, and ranks 10th in the world.
The country boasts abundant tourism resources, with seven natural and cultural attractions designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The capital boasts the renowned Cathedral of Our Lady of Africa, 319 mosques, and numerous museums. To the north lies the pleasant golden beaches of the Mediterranean, to the south the vast Sahara Desert, and beyond, snow-capped mountains and numerous ancient Roman ruins.
The northern coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate, with mild and rainy winters; hot and dry summers with humidity; the climate is mild and pleasant in April, May, June, September and October.
The central part has a tropical savanna climate. Some plateaus have a continental climate, which is dry and rainy, with cold winters and hot summers.
The southern Sahara Desert region has an extreme continental desert climate with very little rainfall and extremely high sunshine; it is hot from May to September.
Go to Tipasa to see the ruins of ancient Roman buildings, trace the bloody atmosphere of the Colosseum in Timgad, look at the Haj Ahmed Palace from the top of Constantine's Bridge, or visit the religious sanctuary with Romanesque urban architecture on the hill of Djemila, which is more than 900 meters high.
Algeria has a rich history influenced by Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Ottoman, and French cultures. It is known for its ancient ruins, Islamic architecture, and significant role in the fight for independence from France in 1962. The country also has unique natural landscapes including the Sahara Desert.
Algeria is in North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north. International travelers typically arrive via Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers. Local transport includes taxis, buses, and trams in cities; walking is common in city centers.
Most museums and historic sites are open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Coastal areas are best visited in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) to avoid extreme heat.
Entry fees vary: museums ($2–$5), archaeological sites ($3–$7). Tickets are generally purchased on-site; online booking is limited.
Advance booking is not usually necessary for most attractions except guided tours or group visits, which are recommended 1–2 weeks in advance.
7–10 days are ideal to explore major cities, historical sites, and natural attractions.
Guided tours are available in French and Arabic; some tours offer English. Audio guides are limited.
Some cities offer evening tours of Algiers and cultural events, but night visits to most archaeological sites are generally not available.
Peak tourist season is summer (June–August). Least crowded periods are spring and fall, avoiding national holidays.
Urban sites are generally accessible. Older ruins and desert excursions may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash (Algerian Dinar) is widely used; major hotels and some shops accept credit cards. Mobile payments are limited.
Halal food is standard; vegetarian options are available but more limited outside major cities. Vegan options are rare.