🇩🇿 Your Authentic 9-Day Algeria Itinerary

Upon arrival at Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), you will be met by your pre-arranged guide or driver for a transfer to your hotel. After settling in, begin your exploration in the city center. A great starting point is the Grande Poste, a magnificent neo-Moorish building that is a landmark of the city. From there, take a leisurely stroll along the main thoroughfare, Didouche Mourad Street, known for its beautiful Haussmann-style architecture, shops, and cafes.

In the late afternoon, visit the Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, a stunning 19th-century botanical garden that offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Explore its French and English-style gardens and the tropical section with its towering bamboo and palm trees. End your day with a walk along the seafront promenade to admire the sunset over the Mediterranean and get a feel for the local life as families and friends gather to enjoy the evening.

Young Travelers: After exploring the city center, find a local cafe on Didouche Mourad street to sit, people-watch, and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Seniors: The Jardin d’Essai is a wonderful and mostly flat place for a relaxing walk. Consider hiring a taxi for short distances between sights to conserve energy.

Family: The Jardin d’Essai is a fantastic place for children to run around and explore. It also has a small zoo that can be a fun attraction for the whole family.

With Disability: The wide, paved sidewalks of the French colonial downtown are more accessible than other parts of the city. The main paths of the Jardin d’Essai are also generally manageable for wheelchairs.

Luxury Travel: Stay at a five-star hotel with sea views. Arrange for a private car and driver for your city explorations. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a restaurant specializing in fine Algerian cuisine.

Adventure: Your adventure begins with navigating a new and exciting city. Be open to spontaneous discoveries as you wander the downtown streets.

Nature: The Jardin d’Essai du Hamma is the primary nature-focused activity for the day, offering a world-class botanical experience and a serene green space within the capital.

• Luxury: El Aurassi Hotel – An iconic Algiers landmark offering panoramic views of the bay and the city from its hilltop location.
• Mid-Range: Hotel El-Djazair – A historic hotel with a beautiful garden and pool, offering a blend of colonial charm and modern comfort.
• Budget: ST Hostel – A well-located and friendly option for budget travelers looking for a simple and clean base to explore the city.

Traveling to Algeria requires significant advance planning. Most nationalities need a visa, which must be obtained from the Algerian embassy in your home country. This process can take several weeks and often requires an invitation letter from a certified local tour agency, with whom you will have to book a tour for the duration of your stay. Independent travel is very difficult to arrange. Therefore, the most important tip is to book your entire tour with a reputable Algerian agency well in advance.

Upon arrival, it’s a good idea to exchange some money into Algerian Dinars (DZD) at the airport for small purchases, though your guide can assist with this. Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major hotels. Always carry a copy of your passport and visa with you. Your guide will be your main point of contact and an invaluable resource for navigating the city and understanding local customs.

For your arrival and exploration of modern Algiers, smart casual attire is appropriate. Algeria is a conservative country, and modest dress is respectful and recommended for both men and women. For women, this means wearing long trousers, a long skirt, or a dress, and ensuring your shoulders and chest are covered. A headscarf is not required for foreign visitors, but it’s a good idea to carry one with you, as it may be needed to enter certain mosques.

For men, long trousers and a shirt (short or long-sleeved) are suitable. Avoid wearing shorts. The climate is Mediterranean, so in spring and autumn, a light jacket will be needed for the evenings. In summer, lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are best. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city’s streets.

For your first evening, enjoy a meal in the city center. There are many restaurants along the main boulevards that offer a mix of French and Algerian cuisine. This is a great opportunity to try a traditional Algerian dish like “chorba” (a spiced soup) or a tagine. Your guide will be able to recommend a good, reputable restaurant based on your preferences.

Alternatively, many of the larger hotels have excellent on-site restaurants, which can be a convenient and high-quality option for your first night after a long day of travel. This allows you to relax and enjoy a delicious meal without having to navigate the city further. Ask for a table with a view if possible, to continue enjoying the beautiful cityscape.

As part of your pre-booked tour, your transfer from Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) to your hotel will be handled by your tour agency. This is the safest and most reliable way to begin your trip. Your guide and driver will meet you upon arrival and take you directly to your accommodation.

For exploring the city center on your first afternoon, you will likely be with your guide and private vehicle. This is the standard mode of travel for tourists in Algeria. It ensures you can navigate the city efficiently and safely, and your guide can provide context and information about the places you are visiting. The downtown area is also quite walkable if you wish to explore a bit on foot with your guide.

Spend the morning on a guided walking tour of the Casbah. Navigating this labyrinth is impossible without a local guide. They will lead you through the steep, winding streets to discover key sites like the Dar Hassan Pacha, the Mosque of Ketchaoua, and several beautiful Ottoman-era palaces. Your guide will share stories of the Casbah’s history and its importance during the Algerian War of Independence, famously depicted in the film “The Battle of Algiers.”

In the afternoon, broaden your perspective of the city. Visit the towering Martyrs’ Memorial (Maqam Echahid), a concrete monument that dominates the skyline and commemorates the lives lost in the war for independence. The views of the city from its base are spectacular. Afterward, visit the National Museum of Fine Arts, located near the Jardin d’Essai, which houses the most important art collection in Algeria, featuring works by Algerian and international artists.

Young Travelers: The history of the Casbah as a center of resistance will be fascinating. The views from the Martyrs’ Memorial are a great photo opportunity.

Seniors: The Casbah involves steep, uneven steps and can be very strenuous. A guide can tailor a shorter, more manageable route. The Museum of Fine Arts is a more relaxed and accessible afternoon activity.

Family: The maze-like nature of the Casbah can be an adventure for older children, but it is not suitable for strollers. The open space around the Martyrs’ Memorial is a good place for them to stretch their legs.

With Disability: The Casbah is not accessible for wheelchairs due to its steep stairs and narrow alleys. The area around the Martyrs’ Memorial and the National Museum of Fine Arts are generally accessible.

Luxury Travel: Arrange for a specialized historical guide for your tour of the Casbah. After your explorations, enjoy a traditional Algerian mint tea in a restored historic house.

Adventure: The adventure today is in the immersive urban exploration of the Casbah, a truly unique and disorienting environment that feels a world away from the modern city below.

Nature: While the day is focused on history and culture, the panoramic views from the top of the Casbah and the Martyrs’ Memorial provide a stunning natural perspective of the city’s relationship with the Mediterranean Sea.

• Luxury: Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden – A modern luxury hotel located next to the Jardin d’Essai, offering refined comfort and excellent amenities.
• Mid-Range: Lamaraz Arts Hotel – A stylish and contemporary boutique hotel known for its artistic decor and comfortable rooms.
• Budget: City Hotel Alger – A centrally located hotel offering basic, clean accommodations at a reasonable price point.

A guide is not just recommended for the Casbah—it is essential. The area is a dense, confusing labyrinth, and a guide is necessary for navigation, safety, and for gaining access to many of the historic houses and palaces which are not obviously marked. Your tour agency will provide an official, knowledgeable local guide who can bring the history of this incredible place to life.

When walking through the Casbah, be respectful of the local residents. This is a living, breathing neighborhood, not just a tourist site. Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Wear your sturdiest and most comfortable walking shoes, as you will be climbing and descending many stairs on uneven surfaces throughout the morning.

Modest dress is particularly important for your visit to the historic and traditional Casbah. Women should wear long trousers or a long skirt and ensure their top covers their shoulders and chest. A loose-fitting tunic is an excellent choice. While a headscarf is not mandatory, having one with you is a good idea out of respect and may be required to enter mosques.

Men should wear long trousers. The most important consideration for everyone is footwear. The stone steps of the Casbah can be slippery and are often uneven. Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers with excellent grip. You will be on your feet for several hours in a challenging urban environment.

For lunch, your guide may take you to a small, traditional restaurant within the Casbah itself. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Casbah cuisine in a unique setting. These places are often hidden and known only to locals, offering a truly special dining experience. Alternatively, you can have lunch in the city center after your tour.

In the evening, consider trying a restaurant that specializes in Algerian seafood. Given Algiers’ prime location on the Mediterranean, the city has excellent fresh fish and seafood. Your guide or hotel can recommend a good place to enjoy a delicious meal while reflecting on your day of historical exploration.

Your guide and private vehicle will transport you to the entrance of the Casbah. From there, the entire exploration is done on foot. The nature of the Casbah, with its narrow, steep stairways, makes it inaccessible to vehicles. Be prepared for a significant amount of walking.

For the afternoon portion of the day, your driver will take you to the Martyrs’ Memorial, which is located on a hill overlooking the city, and then to the National Museum of Fine Arts. Having a private vehicle is essential for covering these distances efficiently and comfortably, especially given the city’s hilly terrain.

In the morning, your guide will transfer you to the airport in Algiers for a short domestic flight to Constantine. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and begin your tour of this incredible city. The main focus will be the city’s famous bridges. You will walk across the Sidi M’Cid Bridge, a suspension bridge that offers dizzying views of the gorge below, and admire the iconic Sidi Rached Bridge.

In the afternoon, delve into the city’s history with a visit to the Palace of Ahmed Bey, the last Ottoman Bey of Constantine. This magnificent palace is a highlight of any visit, featuring beautiful courtyards, intricate tilework, and rooms decorated with stunning frescoes. Afterward, wander through the “souk” or market area to get a feel for local life and perhaps see some traditional artisans at work.

Young Travelers: The thrill of walking across the high suspension bridges will be a major highlight. The bustling energy of the local souk is also a great experience.

Seniors: The views of the gorge can be enjoyed from many vantage points without extensive walking. The Palace of Ahmed Bey is a fascinating and relatively flat site to explore.

Family: The bridges and the deep canyon are a spectacular sight for all ages. The colorful tilework and courtyards of the palace can be very engaging for children.

With Disability: The city’s hilly terrain and reliance on bridges make it challenging. However, many of the best views can be seen from the vehicle, and the main courtyard of the Palace of Ahmed Bey may be accessible.

Luxury Travel: Stay at the best hotel in the city, the Marriott Constantine, which offers modern comfort and great views. Enjoy a fine dining experience at the hotel’s restaurant.

Adventure: The adventure is in the vertigo-inducing walks across the city’s bridges, a unique urban hiking experience that provides a serious adrenaline rush.

Nature: The main natural attraction is the spectacular Rhumel River gorge itself. You can take a walk down towards the gorge to appreciate its scale and the way the city has been built around this dramatic natural feature.

• Luxury: Constantine Marriott Hotel – The city’s premier luxury hotel, offering modern rooms, excellent facilities, and panoramic views.
• Mid-Range: Ibis Constantine – A reliable and modern mid-range option providing comfortable accommodation and consistent service.
• Mid-Range: Novotel Constantine – Another excellent mid-range choice, offering spacious rooms and a good location for exploring the city.

Domestic flights are the most practical way to cover the large distances in Algeria. Your tour agency will book your flight from Algiers to Constantine. Be prepared for potential schedule changes or delays, as this can be common with domestic air travel. Keep your passport and travel documents handy at all times, as you will need them for airport check-ins.

When walking on the bridges in Constantine, especially the Sidi M’Cid suspension bridge, be prepared for it to sway slightly, which is perfectly normal. If you have a fear of heights, you may find it challenging, but the views are a huge reward. Always hold on to your camera and phone securely, as the drop is immense.

Continue to dress modestly. The weather in Constantine, being on a high plateau, can be cooler and windier than in Algiers. It is essential to have a warm layer, like a fleece or a good jacket, especially for the evenings and for when you are on the exposed bridges. Long trousers and a modest top are appropriate.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. You will be doing a fair amount of walking through the old city and across the bridges. The streets can be uneven, so shoes with good support will make your exploration much more enjoyable. A hat can be useful for sun protection during the day.

For lunch upon arrival, your guide can take you to a local restaurant known for Constantinian specialties. The city has its own unique culinary traditions. Ask your guide about local dishes to try. Enjoying a meal in the old city, or “medina,” is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

In the evening, you can dine at one of the city’s well-regarded restaurants or at your hotel. The Marriott and Novotel have reputable dining options. Ask for a table with a view of the illuminated bridges if possible, as the cityscape is particularly dramatic at night.

The journey from Algiers to Constantine is made by a short domestic flight, which is the most efficient method. The flight takes approximately one hour. Your tour agency will arrange all aspects of this transfer, including the drive to the airport in Algiers and the pick-up from the airport in Constantine.

Once in Constantine, you will explore the city with your private vehicle and guide. The car is essential for traveling between the different bridges, the palace, and other viewpoints. The exploration of the old city and the walks across the bridges will be done on foot.

The entire day will be focused on a guided tour of Djémila. You will travel by car from Constantine (approximately 2 hours) through the scenic countryside. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you through the sprawling archaeological site. Key highlights include the two forums, the grand theatre, the Temple of the Severan family, the magnificent Arch of Caracalla, and the Christian quarter with its basilicas and baptistery.

A crucial part of the visit is the Djémila Museum, located at the entrance to the site. This museum contains one of the most spectacular collections of Roman mosaics in the world, all excavated from the villas within the ancient city. The detail and artistry of these mosaics, which depict scenes from mythology and daily life, are truly breathtaking and provide a rich insight into the life of the city’s wealthy inhabitants.

Young Travelers: The scale of the ruins and the stories of Roman life will be captivating. The wide-open spaces of the ancient city are great for exploration.

Seniors: The site is large and involves walking on uneven stone surfaces. A guide can pace the tour accordingly. The museum is a great, less strenuous part of the visit. Ensure you have comfortable, supportive shoes.

Family: The ruins can be like a giant historical playground for children, sparking their imagination about life in Roman times. The stories behind the mosaics can be very engaging for them.

With Disability: The archaeological site is not wheelchair accessible due to the ancient, uneven stone paths and steps. The museum, however, may be partially accessible.

Luxury Travel: Have your tour operator arrange for a specialized archaeologist guide to provide an expert-level tour of the site.

Adventure: The adventure is in the exploration of this vast and complex ancient city. Take time to climb to the top of the theatre for fantastic views of the entire site and the surrounding mountains.

Nature: The natural setting of Djémila is a key part of its beauty. The city is nestled between two wadis (riverbeds) in a green, hilly landscape, making it one of the most picturesque Roman sites in the world.

You will be returning to your hotel in Constantine for the night.

• Luxury: Constantine Marriott Hotel
• Mid-Range: Ibis Constantine
• Mid-Range: Novotel Constantine

The Roman sites in Algeria are remarkably free of the crowds you would find at similar sites in Europe. This allows for a much more personal and atmospheric experience. Take your time, wander freely, and truly soak in the history. Listen to your guide, as they will point out small details and share stories that bring the stone ruins to life.

There are very limited facilities at the archaeological site itself. Be sure to bring everything you will need for the day with you, including a good supply of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Your guide will likely arrange for lunch at a local restaurant in the nearby modern town of Djémila after your tour of the ruins.

For your day exploring Djémila, practical and comfortable clothing is key. Wear lightweight trousers or long shorts (for men) and a breathable t-shirt or blouse. The site is very exposed with little shade, so sun protection is critical. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply a high-SPF sunscreen.

The most important item is your footwear. You will be walking for several hours on ancient, uneven Roman paving stones. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers with good support are absolutely essential. Do not attempt to explore the site in flimsy sandals or flip-flops.

Your guide will arrange for your lunch at a local restaurant in the modern town near the Djémila archaeological site. This will be an opportunity to try simple but delicious local Algerian cuisine. The experience will be authentic and provides a glimpse into the daily life of the region.

For dinner, you will return to Constantine. You can explore another of the city’s restaurants or choose to dine at your hotel. After a long day of walking and historical immersion, a relaxing dinner is the perfect way to end the day.

Djémila is visited as a day trip from Constantine. The journey is made by private vehicle with your guide and driver. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way, passing through the scenic landscapes of the Setif province.

There is no practical public transport for tourists to reach this site, so being part of an organized tour is the only feasible way to visit. Your private transport gives you the flexibility to spend as much time as needed at the site and to travel in comfort.

Today’s excursion will take you from Constantine to Timgad, a drive of about 2.5 hours. You will spend several hours exploring this vast archaeological site with your guide. The highlight is the perfectly preserved grid layout of the streets, which makes it easy to imagine the city in its prime. Key sights include the impressive Arch of Trajan, the large theatre which once seated 3,500 people, the public library, and numerous temples and marketplaces.

Unlike many other Roman sites, Timgad allows you to comprehend the structure of a complete city, from its public buildings to its residential quarters. After a thorough exploration of the ruins, you will also visit the Timgad Museum, which, like Djémila’s, houses a stunning collection of beautiful and intricate mosaics that once decorated the floors of the city’s finest homes.

Young Travelers: The sheer size of Timgad and the ability to climb the steps of the theatre will be an exciting experience. The Arch of Trajan is an incredible backdrop for photos.

Seniors: Timgad is very large and exposed. A vehicle can take you to different points within the site to minimize walking. The tour can be paced to allow for plenty of rest. The museum is a good place to appreciate the art of the city in a comfortable environment.

Family: The grid-like streets and clear layout of a complete city can be easier for children to understand than more fragmented ruins. It’s a fantastic open-air history lesson.

With Disability: The site is very large and has uneven surfaces, making it inaccessible for wheelchairs. It may be possible to view some of the main structures from a vehicle.

Luxury Travel: Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Roman ruins of Lambaesis, which was the military base for the legion that founded Timgad.

Adventure: The adventure is in the scale of the exploration. Challenge yourself to walk from one end of the city to the other, imagining the lives of the Roman soldiers and citizens who once inhabited these streets.

Nature: Timgad is located on a high, arid plain at the edge of the Aurès Mountains. The stark beauty of the surrounding landscape provides a dramatic backdrop for the Roman ruins, highlighting the city’s role as an outpost of the empire.

You will be returning to your hotel in Constantine for the night.

• Luxury: Constantine Marriott Hotel
• Mid-Range: Ibis Constantine
• Mid-Range: Novotel Constantine

Timgad is even more exposed to the sun than Djémila. There is virtually no shade on the site. It is absolutely crucial to be prepared for the sun. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, use plenty of sunscreen, and bring a large supply of water. Starting your tour early in the morning is the best way to avoid the harshest midday sun and heat, especially during the warmer months.

Pacing is important at such a large site. Trust your guide to show you the most important highlights. The grid plan makes the city seem simple, but its size can be deceptive. Let your guide lead the way to ensure you see the key monuments like the Arch, the library, and the capitol, without getting exhausted.

Dress for a hot and sunny day. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers made of breathable fabric like linen or cotton are ideal. They will protect you from the intense sun while keeping you as cool as possible. A wide-brimmed hat is not just a recommendation; it is essential for protecting your face and neck. Sunglasses are also a must.

As with Djémila, sturdy and comfortable walking shoes are critical. You will be walking a significant distance on uneven, ancient stone streets. Good footwear will protect your feet and allow you to explore this incredible city in comfort. This is not a place for sandals.

Lunch will be arranged by your guide in the modern town of Timgad, near the archaeological site. You will likely dine at a simple local restaurant, offering you another opportunity to taste the regional cuisine of eastern Algeria. It’s a welcome break after a long morning of exploration under the sun.

For dinner, upon your return to Constantine, you can choose from the city’s variety of restaurants. Perhaps try a different one from the previous nights or revisit a favorite. It’s your last night in this spectacular city, so it’s a good time to enjoy a final Constantinian meal.

Like Djémila, Timgad is visited as a day trip, this time from Constantine. Your private vehicle and guide are essential for this journey. The drive is longer, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours each way through the Batna province and the Aurès Mountains region.

Being part of an organized tour is the only practical way for a tourist to visit Timgad. The comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive manageable and allows you to arrive at the site feeling fresh and ready to explore.

In the morning, you will fly from Constantine to Ghardaïa. Upon arrival at Noumérat – Moufdi Zakaria Airport (GHA), you will be met by your local Mozabite guide, who will be with you for the duration of your stay in the valley. After checking into your traditional guesthouse, you will begin with a tour of Ghardaïa’s vibrant and historic market square.

The market is the bustling heart of the city, a place where you can see locals in traditional dress buying and selling goods. Your guide will explain the social importance of the market and help you navigate its lively atmosphere. In the late afternoon, you will be taken to a viewpoint that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Ghardaïa oasis, allowing you to appreciate the unique urban planning of the city and its relationship with the surrounding desert.

Young Travelers: The unique architecture and the bustling market will be a fascinating cultural immersion. Be open to trying local foods and interacting with the vendors.

Seniors: The pace of the tour will be relaxed. The panoramic viewpoint is a great way to see the city without extensive walking. Staying in a traditional guesthouse can be a very comfortable and authentic experience.

Family: The colorful market and the unique, almost surreal, architecture of the city can be very stimulating for children’s imaginations.

With Disability: The old cities are very challenging, with narrow, steep, and uneven alleys. A visit would likely be limited to the main market square and panoramic viewpoints accessible by vehicle.

Luxury Travel: While five-star hotels are not available, the luxury is in the authenticity of the experience. Stay in the best available traditional guesthouse for a culturally rich and comfortable stay.

Adventure: The adventure is in the deep cultural immersion. Visiting the M’Zab Valley is like traveling to another time and culture, a true adventure for the curious traveler.

Nature: Explore the date palm groves that are a vital part of the oasis ecosystem. Your guide can explain the ancient and complex irrigation systems that have allowed life to flourish here for centuries.

Accommodation in Ghardaïa is typically in traditional guesthouses (“maisons d’hôtes”) which are arranged by the local tour operator. This is the most authentic way to experience the region. Your Algerian tour agency will book this for you.

The M’Zab Valley is a very conservative and traditional society. It is absolutely crucial to be respectful of local customs. Your local guide is essential for navigating these customs. Photography is highly restricted, especially of people (particularly women) and in certain areas of the cities. Always ask your guide for permission before taking any photos. They will tell you where and when it is appropriate.

A local Mozabite guide is mandatory for all foreign visitors. You cannot wander the old cities on your own. Your main tour operator will arrange for this specialized local guide to meet you at the airport. This is not a restriction but an enhancement, as their knowledge is invaluable for understanding this unique culture.

Extremely modest dress is required in the M’Zab Valley, more so than in other parts of Algeria. For women, this means wearing loose-fitting, non-revealing clothing that covers your arms and legs completely. A headscarf is also required and must be worn when visiting the traditional cities. Your guide will advise you on this. Loose trousers and a long tunic, along with a scarf, are an ideal outfit.

Men should also dress conservatively, wearing long trousers and a shirt. The climate is Saharan, so it can be very hot during the day and cool at night. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be exploring the cities on foot.

Your meals in Ghardaïa will likely be included as part of your stay at your traditional guesthouse. This is the best way to experience authentic Mozabite home cooking. The meals are often communal and feature local specialties, often including dates from the surrounding palm groves.

Lunch might be at a simple local restaurant near the market, arranged by your guide. This provides an opportunity to see more of the local life. Be sure to try the traditional mint tea, which is a cornerstone of social life and hospitality in the region.

The journey from Constantine to Ghardaïa is made by domestic flight. Your tour agency will manage these bookings. The flight schedule can be limited, so the itinerary is built around their availability. The flight offers a stunning aerial view of the transition from the northern landscape to the vast Sahara Desert.

Upon arrival, your local guide and a vehicle will be your mode of transport. The vehicle will be used to travel between the different cities of the Pentapolis and to viewpoints, while the exploration of the ancient, fortified cities themselves will be done entirely on foot.

With your local guide, you will spend the day visiting some of the other fortified cities of the Pentapolis. A key highlight is the holy city of Beni Isguen, which is the most well-preserved and traditional of the five. Entry for foreigners is restricted to certain times and is only possible with a local guide. Inside, you will explore its incredibly narrow alleys and see its famous auction market.

You may also visit the cities of Melika, which is home to a picturesque cemetery, and El Atteuf, the oldest of the five cities, founded in 1012. Your guide will explain the history of each city and the subtle differences between them. The tour will also likely include a visit to the traditional irrigation systems of the palm groves, a fascinating example of ancient sustainable engineering.

Young Travelers: The strict rules and ancient traditions of Beni Isguen will be a fascinating cultural contrast. The experience of a traditional auction is unique.

Seniors: The walking tours will be conducted at a leisurely pace. The history and unique social structure of these communities are incredibly interesting.

Family: The storybook-like architecture and the ancient feel of the cities can be very exciting for children. The visit to the irrigation systems is also a great practical lesson in history and engineering.

With Disability: As with Ghardaïa, the ancient cities are not accessible for wheelchairs. The experience would be limited to what can be seen from a vehicle and the more accessible market areas.

Luxury Travel: The luxury here is in the exclusive access and deep knowledge provided by your private local guide, offering insights that are unavailable to casual visitors.

Adventure: The adventure is cultural. Navigating the strict social protocols and getting a glimpse into such a preserved and private society is an adventure for the mind and spirit.

Nature: The focus today is on the human-made environment, but the way these cities are designed in harmony with the harsh desert landscape is a profound lesson in sustainable living and adaptation to nature.

You will be staying for a second night in your traditional guesthouse in Ghardaïa, arranged by your tour operator.

Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions, especially in Beni Isguen. There are strict rules for visitors. For example, smoking is forbidden, you must stay with your guide at all times, and photography is extremely restricted. Following these rules is a sign of respect and is essential for a positive experience and for ensuring that tourism remains welcome in these traditional communities.

The M’Zab Valley is famous for its beautiful and high-quality carpets. If you are interested in purchasing one, the market in Ghardaïa is the place to do so. Your guide can help you find a reputable dealer and explain the meanings behind the traditional Amazigh symbols and patterns used in the designs. It’s a wonderful and authentic souvenir of your visit to the region.

The dress code from yesterday applies even more strictly today, particularly for the visit to the holy city of Beni Isguen. Women must wear a headscarf and ensure their clothing is loose and fully covers their arms and legs. Men must wear long trousers. Your guide will provide you with a final check and advice before entering the cities to ensure your attire is respectful.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you will be on your feet exploring the narrow, stepped streets of the ancient cities. The desert sun will be strong, so even with modest clothing, it’s important to stay hydrated and protect your face with a hat when outside the narrow, shaded alleyways.

As with the previous day, your meals will be a core part of the cultural experience, likely provided at your guesthouse. Lunch may be at another simple, local eatery in one of the towns you visit, allowing you to sample different nuances of the local cuisine.

Dinner at your guesthouse is a chance to relax and discuss what you have learned during the day. It’s an opportunity to ask your guide more questions about the Mozabite culture and their unique way of life in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

Your private vehicle and local guide are the only way to travel today. They will drive you from Ghardaïa to the other cities of the Pentapolis, such as Beni Isguen and El Atteuf. The distances between the cities are short.

All exploration within the ancient walls of the cities will be on foot. The vehicle will wait for you at the entrance, and you will re-join it after your walking tour of each location is complete.

In the morning, your local guide will transfer you to the Ghardaïa airport for your flight back to Algiers. Upon arrival, your original guide and driver will meet you and take you to your hotel. Depending on your flight time and energy levels, the afternoon can be tailored to your interests.

A highly recommended final visit is to the Basilica of Notre-Dame d’Afrique, which sits on a cliff overlooking the sea and the neighborhood of Bab El Oued. The church itself is beautiful, with a unique inscription that reads “Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and for the Muslims.” The panoramic views from the plaza in front of the basilica are among the best in the city. Alternatively, you can use the afternoon for some last-minute souvenir shopping in the city center.

Young Travelers: Use the afternoon to find some local music or art, or simply enjoy a final Algerian coffee at a bustling sidewalk cafe.

Seniors: A visit to the Basilica is a lovely and not too strenuous activity. The views can be enjoyed with minimal walking. A relaxed final dinner is a perfect end to the trip.

Family: A final visit to the Jardin d’Essai or a walk along the promenade could be a nice, relaxing activity for the family.

With Disability: The area around the Basilica is accessible and offers incredible views. A final drive along the seafront can also be a very pleasant experience.

Luxury Travel: Enjoy a final relaxing afternoon at your luxury hotel’s pool or spa. For dinner, book a table at the city’s most highly-rated gourmet restaurant.

Adventure: Ask your guide to take you to a local market outside the main tourist areas for a final, authentic slice of Algerian life.

Nature: The views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Bay of Algiers from the Basilica of Notre-Dame d’Afrique provide a beautiful final connection to the natural setting of the capital.

• Luxury: El Aurassi Hotel
• Mid-Range: Hotel El-Djazair
• Budget: ST Hostel

Use your last afternoon to purchase any souvenirs you may want. Good quality dates, local sweets, leather goods, and crafts are all excellent choices. Your guide can take you to reputable shops where you can be assured of the quality of the items. Having some local currency on hand is useful for these purchases.

Reconfirm your international flight details for the following day with your guide. Pack your main luggage in the evening to ensure a smooth and stress-free departure morning. Settle any outstanding payments with your tour agency if necessary.

For your flight and final afternoon in Algiers, comfortable travel clothes are appropriate. You will be back in the more liberal capital, but maintaining a smart casual and modest appearance is still the best approach. A pair of comfortable trousers and a shirt, along with a light jacket, will be suitable.

If you visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame d’Afrique, as it is a place of worship, ensure your shoulders are covered. Comfortable walking shoes will be useful for any final explorations you decide to do in the afternoon.

Lunch will depend on your flight schedule. You might have a quick bite near the airport or have lunch in Algiers after you have checked into your hotel. Your guide will provide the best option based on your timing.

For your farewell dinner, choose a place with a special atmosphere. This could be a restaurant with a great view of the city, or one known for its excellent traditional Algerian cuisine. It’s your last chance to enjoy the flavors of the country, so make it a memorable one. Discuss options with your guide for the perfect place to celebrate the end of your journey.

Your day will begin with a transfer by your local guide to the airport in Ghardaïa for your domestic flight to Algiers. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Upon arrival in Algiers, your guide and driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel and then take you on your chosen afternoon excursions. A private vehicle remains the best way to navigate the city efficiently for these final visits.

The only activity for today is the transfer to Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) for your international flight. Depending on your flight’s departure time, you may have a relaxed morning at your hotel. Enjoy a final breakfast and take the opportunity to write in your journal or look through your photos.

Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel at a pre-arranged time, ensuring you have ample time to check in for your flight. They will assist you at the airport and bid you farewell, concluding your Algerian adventure.

This is a departure day, so activities are limited to the hotel and the airport transfer.

This is a departure day, so activities are limited to the hotel and the airport transfer.

No accommodation is needed for today.

Make sure all your liquids are packed according to international travel regulations in your checked luggage or in a clear bag if in your carry-on. Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass in an easily accessible place. It can be a good idea to spend your last few Algerian Dinars on coffee or snacks at the airport before you pass through security.

Be sure to thank your guide and driver for their service. Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for their hard work, knowledge, and hospitality throughout your journey. Your tour agency can provide you with a suggested tipping amount.

Dress comfortably for your flight home. A pair of comfortable trousers, a t-shirt, and a sweater or light jacket for the plane are ideal. Wear comfortable shoes, and consider packing a pair of socks in your carry-on to stay warm and comfortable during a long flight.

Your final meal will be breakfast at your hotel in Algiers. The airport has several cafes where you can purchase snacks and drinks before your flight.

Your pre-arranged and included transfer to Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) with your guide and driver is the only travel for today. They will ensure you arrive at the airport at the appropriate time, typically at least three hours before your international flight’s departure.