Journey to the Algerian Sahara

Good to Know

Travel Information

Safety, Passport, Visa and Health Information

We strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice for Algeria.

To enter Algeria, your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive, and you must have a visa – apply through the Algerian Consulate in the UK before you travel, and check your visa's validity dates. If you overstay, Algerian immigration police are likely to detain you at the airport on departure, and you may face criminal prosecution and up to 3 months in prison. You must also have a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

You don't have to carry your passport at all times, but take it on longer journeys, and you must have it if travelling inside Algeria by air. It is illegal to be under the influence of alcohol in a public place, and illegal to possess, use or traffic controlled drugs, with prison sentences for convictions. Mobile phone coverage can be patchy or unavailable in more remote areas, particularly in the south of Algeria, and some online maps may not be accurate there. It is illegal to photograph government buildings or security installations, including police checkpoints. Same-sex sexual acts are illegal in Algeria.

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Facilities at private clinics are usually better than government hospitals – make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. For emergency medical assistance, call 16 or 1021 and ask for an ambulance.

What to Bring

The weather can change quickly in Algeria and vary across the country, from the Sahara desert to snow-capped mountain peaks, so pack a versatile selection of casual, comfortable, easy-to-layer clothes. There is no strict dress code for travellers, though female travellers may be required to wear a head and shoulder covering at certain religious sites (shoulders must be covered even in a T-shirt, shorts are usually not allowed, and hats must be removed indoors). Bring both sandals and comfortable walking/hiking shoes, as you'll spend considerable time on foot exploring historic sites and desert landscapes.

Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack – you're expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself; a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suitcase. We also recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent, a water bottle, and a solar charger for your phone and other electronics.

While You're There

The Algerian Dinar (DZD) is a closed currency – you cannot buy it before arrival, and importing or exporting it is illegal, so currency exchange is only possible within Algeria (Algiers International Airport has the most options – we recommend exchanging enough for your whole trip there and keeping the receipt). Cash amounts exceeding €1,000 must be declared on arrival or departure, and the total value of imported or exported currency cannot exceed €7,500. Most ATMs are not compatible with VISA or Western banks.

Algeria uses type C and F plugs, on a 230V/50Hz supply. The best time to visit is spring or autumn (April-May and October-November) for a Saharan trip too, as conditions are less fierce and the rest of the country is dry and relatively warm. Check with your phone provider for roaming charges, or consider a local Algerian SIM card (available at the airport for about $5-10) if your phone is unlocked – most large hotels have wifi, though it can be restricted and slow.