Algeria Tours and Holidays

Escorted Tours and Holidays in Algeria

Explore the Highlights of Northern Algeria on this seven day adventure including Algiers, Tipasa, Djemila and Constantine.

Journey into the Sahara Desert in Algeria on an 11 day tour. Discover Beni Abes, the 'White Oasis', Timimoun and El Menea.

Algeria, the largest country in Africa, often flies under the radar for many travellers, yet it boasts a captivating blend of history, culture, and varied landscapes, perfect for a holiday with a difference. From ancient Roman ruins and the serene oases of the Sahara to vibrant cities and picturesque coastlines, Algeria tours offer a distinct mix of experiences for those eager to explore hidden gems.

With a rich historical background and stunning natural beauty, it's a destination where visitors can delve into time and soak in some of North Africa's most remarkable sights.

One of the standout features of Algeria is its impressive historical heritage, with ruins that date back to the Roman Empire. The country hosts some of the best-preserved Roman sites worldwide, including Timgad, often dubbed the "Pompeii of Africa." Founded by Emperor Trajan in the first century AD, Timgad features meticulously aligned streets, arches, and temples that transport visitors back to ancient times. Close by is Djemila, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where stunning Roman architecture meets the rugged Algerian mountains. Strolling through these ruins, one can truly feel the historical significance that defines Algeria.

Algeria's breathtaking natural landscapes are another major attraction that calls for adventurers. While a significant part of the country is part of the vast Sahara Desert, Algeria also boasts mountainous regions and a beautiful Mediterranean coastline that stretches over 1,000 kilometres. With its rolling dunes and tranquil oases, the Sahara provides a unique adventure for those seeking excitement.

Among its many treasures is Tassili n'Ajjer, a vast plateau dotted with prehistoric rock art and surreal sandstone formations, creating an almost otherworldly landscape. This blend of natural beauty and ancient art invites travellers to explore a timeless and unspoiled area.

For those who enjoy the vibrancy of city life, Algeria's urban centres offer a lively contrast to its natural splendour. The capital, Algiers, known as "Algiers the White" for its striking white buildings, lies on the Mediterranean coast, showcasing a fascinating mix of colonial and traditional architecture. The Casbah of Algiers, a labyrinthine ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites visitors to wander through narrow alleys filled with bustling markets and historical mosques.

Oran, the country's second-largest city, exudes energy with its coastal promenades, lively nightlife, and a rich history shaped by French and Spanish influences. These cities serve as gateways to Algeria's rich past and vibrant hubs of culture and cuisine.

Algerian culture is a fascinating tapestry of influences, blending Arab, Berber, French, and Islamic traditions into a unique heritage. The hospitality of the Algerian people is notable, with locals keen to share their customs, food, and traditions. Traditional dishes such as couscous, tagine, and brik reflect the rich flavours of North African cuisine, showcasing a delightful fusion of spices, vegetables, and meats. Visitors can enjoy these culinary delights in bustling markets where vendors proudly offer fresh produce, aromatic spices, and handmade crafts, highlighting Algeria's cultural richness.

For outdoor lovers, Algeria's diverse landscapes provide numerous opportunities for adventure. The Kabylie region, known for its lush green hills and towering peaks, is perfect for hiking, exploring quaint villages, and soaking in breathtaking views of the mountains and Mediterranean views. This region is incredibly stunning in spring, with wildflowers blanketing the hills, creating a beautiful scene against the blue waters of the sea. The variety of terrains—from mountains and beaches to deserts and ancient forests—offers travellers a chance to engage in various outdoor activities, including hiking, beach fun, desert trekking, and rock climbing.

Despite these numerous attractions, Algeria remains one of North Africa's lesser-visited countries, offering those who explore it a rare opportunity to experience an authentic and unfiltered aspect of the region. With fewer crowds and a genuine sense of hospitality, travellers can enjoy Algeria's wonders at their leisure, discovering beautiful and historically significant sites without the rush of mass tourism.

For anyone seeking a holiday destination that blends ancient history, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, Algeria is truly a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Algeria Tours led by Locals

Our Local Travel Experts in Algeria

Algeria - Local PartnerOur local partner in Algeria offers à la carte holidays and customised tours. They strongly believe that a successful tour is directly related to the competence and professionalism of the tour guide. They work in close collaboration with the best local suppliers and believe Algeria's incredible tourist potential is shrouded in a long-standing misapprehension. Tourism is their passion, and they prioritise quality to meet customers' expectations, for whom they spare no effort to offer the best possible services.

PLACES TO VISIT IN ALGERIA

Algeria Tourist Visa Application

Obtaining an Algerian tourist visa from the UK requires planning, as the process involves several steps and submitting various documents. The Algerian Embassy in London handles visa applications, and it's advisable to begin the process well before your intended travel date to ensure everything is in order.

Here's a guide to help you understand the essentials of applying for an Algerian tourist visa from the UK. Please note that this is a guide only, and we recommend that you check the relevant embassy for the latest information.

To start, you must complete a visa application form, which can be downloaded from the Algerian Embassy's official website. This form must be filled out accurately and thoroughly. Along with the form, applicants must submit a valid passport, which should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in Algeria.

Additionally, the passport should have at least one blank page for the visa. Two recent passport-sized photographs, taken against a plain background, are also necessary. Ensuring these photos meet the specified requirements is essential, as improper photos may delay your application.

An invitation letter from a host in Algeria or proof of hotel reservations is also required for a tourist visa. If you have friends or family in Algeria, they can provide an invitation letter to support your application. However, if you plan to stay in a hotel, a confirmed booking covering your entire stay in Algeria will generally suffice. Additionally, the embassy may require an itinerary that outlines your planned travel activities in Algeria. This helps verify that the purpose of your visit is tourism, as opposed to business or other activities.

The visa application process also requires proof of sufficient funds. This typically involves submitting recent bank statements demonstrating your financial ability to support yourself during your stay in Algeria. Some applicants may be required to provide a letter of employment or proof of income, especially if their bank statements alone do not clearly show financial stability. Travel insurance covering the duration of your stay is another typical requirement, as it ensures that visitors have coverage for potential medical expenses.

Once you have gathered all necessary documents, you must submit your application at the Algerian Embassy in London, as postal applications are not typically accepted. The embassy usually requires an application fee, which varies based on the visa type and length of stay. Fees must be paid at the time of application and are generally non-refundable, so it's advisable to double-check all requirements before submitting.

Processing times for Algerian visas can vary, often taking up to two weeks, though it may take longer during peak travel seasons. The embassy recommends applying at least one month before your intended travel date. Once approved, the tourist visa is generally valid for stays of up to 90 days. However, the exact length and number of entries (single or multiple) will depend on your specific visa and the personal circumstances around your holiday.

In summary, obtaining an Algerian tourist visa from the UK requires careful preparation, from completing your documentation to making an in-person visit to the embassy. With the proper planning, you'll be ready to explore Algeria's fascinating landscapes and historical treasures.

Algeria's Roman Ruins

Algeria is home to some of the most impressive and well-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy, offering a fascinating glimpse into the ancient empire's reach across North Africa.

Timgad is among the most famous sites, often called the "Pompeii of Africa." Founded by Emperor Trajan in the first century AD, Timgad is a striking example of Roman city planning, with its grid-like layout of streets, grand archways, temples, and theatres. Walking through Timgad's stone streets, visitors can see Roman baths, marketplaces, and an impressive triumphal arch, all revealing ancient Roman society's daily life and sophistication.

Another must-see is Djemila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the mountains. Known for its breathtaking setting, Djemila features a forum, basilicas, temples, and mosaics that reflect Roman architectural grandeur and the influence of the local Berber culture. The ruins at Djemila are uniquely set against the backdrop of lush mountains, making it one of the most scenic Roman sites in North Africa.

In addition to Timgad and Djemila, the ancient port city of Tipasa along Algeria's coast combines Roman, Phoenician, and early Christian ruins with views of the Mediterranean. Its basilicas, baths, and amphitheatre reveal the region's multicultural heritage. These Roman ruins in Algeria are archaeologically significant and offer a window into the vibrant blend of cultures that have shaped the region across millennia, making them a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.
TOP