How Does Tourism Work In Algeria?

Algeria, the largest country in Africa, offers a diverse range of tourist attractions, including heritage sites, the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains, and relaxing beach destinations on the Mediterranean Sea. The country has been a member of the World Tourism Organization since 1976 and was the 4th largest destination in 2014 according to a report by the organization. Algeria’s desert hinterland offers authentic oasis towns, vast sand seas, and ancient volcanic mountains covered in rare prehistoric petroglyphs.

Algiers, the capital city, has an estimated population of around 500,000. The country presents a multitude of captivating destinations that cater to diverse interests, from historic sites like Algiers and Timgad to natural wonders like the Sahara Desert. Algeria also boasts a beautiful coastline, ancient Roman Empire ruins, and stunning heritage of the ancient Roman Empire.

However, Algeria is not just about the desert experience; it also offers a variety of landforms and climates, making it an ideal tourist destination throughout the year. Tourists should exercise caution due to the threat of terrorism and the risk of kidnapping. Additionally, border areas should be avoided due to regional risks.

In conclusion, Algeria offers a unique blend of cultures, landscapes, and traditions, making it an attractive destination for adventure seekers. However, there are challenges such as lack of tourist attraction, high levels of caution due to terrorism and regional risks, and the need for caution in border areas.

What should I avoid in Algeria?

Algeria faces risks of pickpocketing, robbery, and petty theft in larger cities. To protect yourself and your belongings, avoid unknown areas, especially after dark in suburbs, and avoid carrying large amounts of money or valuables. Use taxi services recommended by your hotel and maintain personal security awareness. When planning to tour the Casbah area of Algiers, use a local guide and inform your hosts or hotel of your plans.

Is Algiers beautiful?

Algeria, known as the “Balcony of the Mediterranean” and known for its stunning Algiers bay, is a country with a rich history and diverse geography. It is often referred to as the crossroads of Mediterranean, Arab, and African cultures, offering numerous opportunities for sport and leisure activities. Algeria’s interior is filled with green valleys, steep mountains, and extensive sand dune regions.

The northern part of the country features a littoral band with exotic beaches, snow-covered mountains, and a vast desert that preserves unique fauna and flora. The Hoggar Mountains peak in the Sahara is 3, 000 meters high, and the Tassili is home to the world’s largest open-air museum, tracing the origins of humanity.

Why do tourists visit Algeria?

Algeria offers a stunning natural landscape with diverse geography, including the Mediterranean, Atlas Mountains, and Sahara. Visitors can explore sandy beaches, oases, and deserts. Chréa National Park is perfect for hiking enthusiasts, while El Kala Marine Reserve offers crystal-clear waters for scuba divers. Algerians are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards foreigners, making them feel at home and welcome with open arms. Algerian nature will amaze you at every turn, making your trip to Algeria an unforgettable experience.

Why does Algeria not like Morocco?

The former Western Sahara territory has caused a deep-seated animosity and mistrust between Algeria and Morocco, which has permeated Moroccan-Algerian relations since Spain announced its intention to abandon the territory in 1975. Algeria, although not asserting any territorial claims, was averse to the absorption of the territory by any of its neighbors and supported the Polisario Front’s wish to create an independent nation in the territory.

The Spanish government had agreed to divide the territory, transferring the majority of the land to Morocco and the remainder to Mauritania, violating a United Nations resolution that declared all historical claims by Mauritania or Morocco to be insufficient to justify territorial absorption.

Guerrilla movements inside the Saharan territory, particularly the Polisario Front, have fought for Saharan independence since 1973 and immediately proclaimed the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). Algeria recognized this new self-proclaimed state in 1976 and has since pursued a diplomatic effort for international recognition of the territory. In 1979, Mauritania abandoned its territorial claims and withdrew, and Morocco quickly claimed the territory relinquished by Mauritania.

Once the SADR gained diplomatic recognition from the Organization of African Unity (OAU), Morocco came under international pressure, leading to the Moroccan government proposing a national referendum to determine the Saharan territory’s sovereignty in 1981. However, the proposal was retracted by the King of Morocco when the OAU could not reach agreement over referendum procedures.

In 1994, Morocco accused the Algerian Secret Service of being behind the Marrakech attack and imposed visa requirements on Algerians and nationals of Algerian origin. The immediate response by the Algerian government was the closure of the border with Morocco, costing both countries an estimated 2 of their annual growth rate. In 1999, Algerian president Abdelaziz Bouteflika attended Hassan II of Morocco’s funeral and declared three days of official mourning in Algeria.

Why is Algeria hard to visit?

It should be noted that Algeria requires a visa for the majority of its visitors, and that the government has not yet extended this requirement to the remainder of the world. Visa requirements for citizens of Libya, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Western Sahara, Seychelles, and Tunisia have been waived, allowing them to enter the country without a visa. Non-citizens are required to submit an application for an Algerian visa at an Algerian diplomatic mission.

Is Algeria safe for female travellers?

The author provides a detailed account of their experience in Algeria, emphasizing the country’s reputation as a secure and stable destination for travel. They highlight the prevalence of vehicular traffic along the coastal route between Algiers and Mostaganem, as well as between Djelfa and Algiers. Furthermore, they cite the freedom of movement in major urban centers.

Is Algeria good for tourists?

It is recommended that Algeria exercise a high degree of caution due to the prevailing threat of terrorism and kidnapping. It is recommended that travel to border areas within 200 km of the Mali, Mauritania, and Niger borders, and 50 km of the Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia borders, be avoided in order to minimize risk.

Why is Algeria not touristy?

The considerable oil and gas resources found in Algeria result in a reduced need for foreign currency from tourists, which in turn has led to the implementation of a policy of reclusiveness. The country has implemented a policy of waiving visa requirements for tourists visiting its southern provinces, thereby facilitating the opportunity for such individuals to engage in comparative wealth assessments with those who are well-off. The objective of this policy is to foster a more inclusive and respectful environment for tourists.

What is Algeria like as a holiday destination?

Algeria offers a diverse range of experiences beyond the beach and mountains, including stunning nature, culture, antiquities, Roman towns, sea, and beaches. The people in Algeria are not spoiled by tourism, and are excited to see foreigners. They are willing to take photos, chat, and take home tea, unlike in Morocco. The Sahara is also a must-see destination, with its stunning deserts and unique experiences. The Sahara is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the world beyond the beach and mountains.

Is Algeria safe for non Muslims?

Algeria’s religious freedom is rated 1 out of 4 by Freedom House in 2022, with religious minorities such as the Algerian Protestant Church and Amazigh and Ahmadi communities facing state persecution and interference. Converts face ostracization from families and neighbors, and the government does not intervene in disputes. Algeria ranks as the 9th worst place in the world to be a Christian in 2023, with religious communities only allowed to gather at state-approved locations.

What do I need to know before going to Algeria?

Algeria is advised to inform local police when visiting locations outside major cities, travel by air if possible, and remain on major highways if necessary. Travel with reputable travel agents and avoid staying overnight outside major cities and tourist locations. Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and kidnapping in areas near the eastern and southern borders and the Sahara Desert.