An Elegant 10-Day Itinerary to Algeria

• Young Travelers: After visiting the basilica, take the cable car down to the Bab El Oued neighborhood and enjoy a coffee at a lively local cafe in the evening.
• Seniors: A pre-booked private car is the most comfortable way to visit Notre-Dame d’Afrique. The site itself is calm and requires minimal walking to enjoy the main viewpoints.
• Family: Children will be fascinated by the cable car ride up to the basilica. Afterwards, a relaxing walk along the Sablettes promenade by the sea is a great way to unwind.
• With Disability: A private vehicle is essential. While there are steps, the main terrace of the basilica is largely accessible and offers the famous panoramic views.
• Luxury: Arrange for a private guided tour that includes an architectural overview of the basilica, followed by mint tea and pastries at a viewpoint overlooking the port.
• Nature: The journey up to the basilica provides stunning natural views of the Algiers coastline and the Mediterranean, blending urban and natural beauty.

• Luxury: Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden
• Mid-Range: El-Aurassi Hotel
• Budget: ST Hostel

Upon arrival in Algeria, it is essential to exchange currency for Algerian Dinars (DZD), as it is primarily a cash-based society. While major hotels may accept credit cards, cash is necessary for most restaurants, shops, and taxis. You can exchange money at the airport bank or at official banks in the city. It’s also wise to purchase a local SIM card from providers like Djezzy, Ooredoo, or Mobilis at the airport. This will provide you with affordable data for navigation and communication, as English is not widely spoken, and having access to translation apps can be very helpful. This initial preparation ensures a much smoother and more connected travel experience.

For your first day in Algiers, opt for smart casual attire that is both comfortable and respectful of local customs. Algeria is a Muslim country, and modest dress is advised. For men, lightweight trousers or chinos paired with a short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirt are appropriate. For women, loose-fitting trousers, a long skirt, or a dress that covers the knees and shoulders is recommended. A light scarf is a versatile accessory to have on hand. As you will be visiting a religious site, Notre-Dame d’Afrique, this modest attire is particularly important. Choose comfortable walking shoes, as you may be exploring on foot. This respectful approach to clothing will be appreciated and ensure a comfortable experience.

For your first evening, immerse yourself in Algerian hospitality at a traditional restaurant in the city center. Seek out an establishment that serves classic Algerian dishes to begin your culinary exploration. A great choice would be a restaurant offering a variety of tagines, couscous, and grilled meats (mechoui). Many fine dining options can be found in the areas of Sidi Yahia or near major hotels. For a truly authentic experience, find a restaurant popular with locals, which often indicates high quality and good value. Enjoying a leisurely dinner with classic Algerian flavors is the perfect way to conclude your first day and absorb the unique atmosphere of the capital.

From Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), the most straightforward way to get to your hotel in central Algiers is by taking a licensed taxi from the official airport rank. Agree on the fare before starting your journey. To visit Notre-Dame d’Afrique, a taxi is also a convenient option. For a more scenic and adventurous route, you can take a taxi to the base of the cable car station in the Bologhine district and ride it up the hill towards the basilica, which offers spectacular views during the ascent. This combination of transport provides both efficiency and a memorable sightseeing experience on your first day, allowing you to quickly get your bearings in this beautiful coastal city.

• Young Travelers: After exploring, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Didouche Mourad Street, stopping for coffee and window shopping at its many modern and traditional stores.
• Seniors: A guided tour of the Casbah is essential. Focus on the lower, more accessible parts. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a cafe near the Grande Poste, enjoying the architecture.
• Family: Explore the lower Casbah and then visit the Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, a vast and beautiful botanical garden with a zoo, which is a fantastic and relaxing afternoon activity for children.
• With Disability: The Casbah’s narrow stairs and uneven paths make it very challenging. A visit to the perimeter and the Dar Hassan Pacha palace at the entrance is more feasible. The French colonial downtown is flat and highly accessible.
• Luxury: Engage a private historian for a deep dive into the Casbah’s history, followed by a visit to a private, restored Ottoman-era home for tea.
• Adventure: The adventure today lies in getting lost in the Casbah’s maze-like alleys, discovering hidden artisan workshops, and interacting with the local community.

• Luxury: Algiers Marriott Hotel Bab Ezzouar
• Mid-Range: Mercure Alger Aeroport
• Budget: City Hotel Alger

Hiring a local, licensed guide for the Casbah is strongly recommended. The area is a complex labyrinth, and a guide will not only prevent you from getting lost but will also enrich your experience immeasurably. They can provide historical context, point out significant architectural details, facilitate respectful interactions with residents, and lead you to hidden gems you would otherwise miss. This ensures both your safety and a deeper, more meaningful engagement with this incredible living museum. You can typically arrange a guide through your hotel or a reputable local tour agency. This is a crucial investment for anyone wanting to truly understand the heart and soul of old Algiers.

For a day of extensive walking through the Casbah and city center, comfortable footwear is paramount. Choose sturdy walking shoes or sneakers, as the terrain in the Casbah is uneven with many stairs. Modest clothing remains important. Loose-fitting linen trousers or a long skirt, paired with a blouse or t-shirt covering the shoulders, is ideal for navigating the day’s activities comfortably and respectfully. The Casbah is a conservative residential area, so dressing with consideration is a sign of respect to the local inhabitants. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable for protection from the sun when you are in the more open areas of the city center. This practical and respectful attire will serve you well for a full day of exploration.

For lunch, ask your Casbah guide to recommend a small, authentic family-run restaurant within the old city for a truly local experience. These hidden gems often serve the most delicious and traditional home-cooked meals. For dinner, explore the culinary offerings around Didouche Mourad Street or in the upscale neighborhood of Hydra. Here you can find a range of options from classic Algerian bistros to more contemporary restaurants. Trying a different style of restaurant in the evening provides a nice contrast to the day’s historical explorations. Look for a place that serves “chorba frik,” a hearty Algerian soup, followed by a delicious meat or fish dish, to continue your gastronomic journey through the country’s rich flavors.

The Casbah is best reached by taking a taxi to one of its main entrances, such as Place des Martyrs, from where you can begin your guided walking tour. The French colonial downtown area, including Didouche Mourad Street and the Grande Poste, is very walkable. You can easily spend the afternoon exploring this district on foot after your morning in the Casbah. Taxis are readily available throughout the city center for when you wish to return to your hotel. Using a combination of taxis for longer distances and exploring on foot is the most efficient and enjoyable way to experience the two distinct faces of Algiers in a single day, allowing for both guided exploration and independent discovery.

• Young Travelers: After exploring the ruins, find a local seafood restaurant in the small, modern town of Tipaza for a fresh and delicious lunch by the port.
• Seniors: A private car or a guided tour is the most comfortable way to visit. The main paths within the archaeological park are relatively flat and easy to walk.
• Family: The combination of ancient ruins and the seaside location makes Tipaza engaging for children, who will have space to run and explore. Pack a picnic to enjoy with a sea view.
• With Disability: Accessibility can be challenging due to uneven paths. However, a private tour can focus on the more accessible areas, and the views from the entrance are spectacular in themselves. The nearby museum is also accessible.
• Luxury: Hire a private vehicle and an archaeologist guide for an in-depth tour, followed by a reservation at the best seafood restaurant in Tipaza.
• Adventure & Nature: The adventure lies in exploring the vast site on foot. The stunning coastal scenery, with pine trees and the sea breeze, makes this a wonderful natural escape from the city.

• Luxury: Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden
• Mid-Range: El-Aurassi Hotel
• Budget: ST Hostel

When visiting Tipaza, it’s best to start your day early to avoid the midday sun and potential crowds, especially during warmer months. The archaeological site is extensive, so allocate at least two to three hours for a thorough exploration. Wearing a hat, sunglasses, and applying sunscreen is crucial, as there is limited shade among the ruins. Combining your visit to the main site with a stop at the nearby Tipaza Museum provides a more complete picture, as it houses many of the beautiful mosaics and artifacts unearthed from the area. This well-paced approach allows for a comfortable and comprehensive discovery of one of North Africa’s most beautiful Roman sites.

For a day trip to Tipaza, comfortable and practical clothing is essential. You will be doing a significant amount of walking on uneven ground, so sturdy and comfortable shoes like sneakers or walking sandals are a must. Lightweight and breathable clothing, such as linen trousers or a modest-length cotton dress, will keep you cool under the Mediterranean sun. Given the coastal location, a light jacket or sweater might be useful, as it can get breezy. A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are non-negotiable for sun protection. This combination of practical footwear and sun-protective clothing will ensure you can fully enjoy the magnificent historical site in comfort.

The modern town of Tipaza, located adjacent to the archaeological site, is renowned for its excellent seafood restaurants. After a morning spent exploring the ruins, there is no better way to relax than by enjoying a lunch of freshly caught and grilled fish at a restaurant overlooking the charming local fishing port. Many establishments offer a ‘catch of the day’ which you can choose yourself. The simple yet delicious preparation, often served with salad and bread, highlights the freshness of the ingredients. This authentic seaside dining experience is a culinary highlight of the region and provides a perfect, relaxing interlude to your day of historical exploration.

The most convenient and comfortable way to travel to Tipaza, located about 70 km west of Algiers, is by hiring a private car with a driver for the day or by joining an organized tour. This allows for flexibility and the option to also visit the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania along the way. Public transport is also an option; shared taxis and buses depart from Algiers’ main transport stations, but this can be more time-consuming and less direct. For a stress-free experience that allows you to maximize your time at the sites, a private vehicle is the recommended choice, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey along the scenic coastal highway.

• Young Travelers & Adventure: For an adrenaline rush, walk across all of the city’s main bridges, including the pedestrianized Mellah Slimane Bridge, to get different perspectives of the gorge.
• Seniors: Focus on visiting the Palace of Ahmed Bey, which is relatively flat and contained. Enjoy the views of the bridges from a comfortable viewpoint or a cafe rather than walking across all of them.
• Family: A visit to the Palace of Ahmed Bey is like stepping into a storybook. Afterwards, a relaxed walk in the city center to see the bridges from afar can be enjoyable for all ages.
• With Disability: The city’s hilly terrain and reliance on bridges make it challenging. A private car tour to key viewpoints is the best way to appreciate the city’s dramatic setting without navigating difficult terrain.
• Luxury: Arrange a private guided tour of the Palace of Ahmed Bey with a local historian, focusing on its intricate tilework and architecture.
• Nature: The deep Rhumel River gorge itself is a spectacular natural wonder, and the views from the bridges provide a unique perspective on this dramatic landscape.

• Luxury: Constantine Marriott Hotel
• Mid-Range: Ibis Constantine
• Budget: Hotel El Bey

When exploring Constantine, always keep your camera ready, but also take the time to simply stand on the bridges and absorb the incredible views. The city’s layout is unique, and the best way to appreciate it is by experiencing it. For a different perspective, consider taking a walk down into parts of the ravine where paths permit, to look up at the towering bridges from below. Always wear comfortable shoes as the city is hilly and requires a lot of walking. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions; Constantinois are generally proud of their city and happy to help visitors discover its most beautiful spots.

Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable for a day in Constantine. The city’s hilly nature and the need to walk across long bridges and explore its historic streets demand supportive footwear. As with the rest of your trip in Algeria, modest attire is recommended. Lightweight trousers and a top covering the shoulders are appropriate for both men and women. The city can be windy, especially on the bridges, so a light jacket or windbreaker is a very practical item to have with you, even on a warm day. This focus on comfort and practicality will allow you to navigate the city’s unique landscape with ease and enjoy its spectacular vistas without distraction.

Constantine offers a rich culinary scene that reflects its long history. For an authentic experience, seek out a traditional restaurant within the old city that specializes in Constantinois cuisine. Look for dishes like “djari,” a local version of chorba soup, and “trida,” a pasta dish often served with chicken. Many excellent restaurants can be found near the city center, offering both traditional Algerian fare and more international options. For a more casual meal, explore the small eateries and grills that are popular with local residents. Enjoying a hearty, traditional meal is the perfect way to refuel after a day spent marveling at the city’s architectural and natural wonders.

The most efficient way to travel from Algiers to Constantine, a distance of approximately 430 km, is by taking a domestic flight. Air Algérie operates multiple daily flights between the two cities, with a flight time of about one hour. This saves a significant amount of travel time compared to ground transport. Alternatively, there are comfortable long-distance buses and a train service, but these options will take up a large portion of the day. Upon arrival at Constantine’s Mohamed Boudiaf Airport (CZL), you can take a taxi to your hotel in the city center. A flight is the recommended option to maximize your sightseeing time in this spectacular city.

• Young Travelers & Adventure: The sheer scale of these sites is an adventure. Try to hike up to the highest points in both cities for stunning panoramic photos of the ruins.
• Seniors: Visiting both sites in one day is demanding. A private tour is essential to manage time and energy. Focus on the main highlights of each site and take plenty of rest.
• Family: Timgad’s grid-like streets can be fun for older children to navigate like a map. The sheer size of the ruins provides an impressive open-air classroom on Roman life.
• With Disability: These are challenging sites with very uneven surfaces. A visit may be limited to viewing the sites from accessible vantage points near the entrances. A private vehicle is required.
• Luxury: This is best experienced with a private guide who is an expert in Roman history to bring the stories of these ancient cities to life.
• Nature: The beautiful, hilly setting of Djémila and the vast plains surrounding Timgad provide a stunning natural context for these historical treasures.

• Luxury: Constantine Marriott Hotel
• Mid-Range: Ibis Constantine
• Budget: Hotel El Bey

This is a long and intensive day of sightseeing. It is crucial to start as early as possible to maximize your time at both sites. Hiring a private car and driver for the day from Constantine is the most efficient way to accomplish this ambitious itinerary. Pack plenty of water and some snacks, as services at the sites are limited. Each site has a small museum at its entrance which is well worth a quick visit, either before or after you explore the ruins, to see the intricate mosaics and statues that were recovered. Prioritizing an early start and efficient transport is the key to successfully and enjoyably visiting both of these magnificent Roman cities in a single day.

Today, more than ever, comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are absolutely essential. You will be walking for several hours on ancient, uneven stone-paved roads and paths at both Djémila and Timgad. Sun protection is also critical, as both sites are vast and offer very little shade. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are mandatory to protect yourself from the strong Algerian sun. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to stay cool and comfortable. A long-sleeved linen shirt can be a great option for protecting your arms from the sun while remaining breathable. Being well-prepared with the right clothing and footwear is vital for a comfortable and enjoyable day of intense historical exploration.

Dining options directly at the archaeological sites are very limited. The best approach for lunch is to have your driver take you to a simple, local restaurant in one of the modern towns near Djémila or Timgad. Here you can have a quick and authentic Algerian meal, such as grilled meat with bread and salad, which will allow you to refuel without losing too much sightseeing time. Alternatively, packing a substantial picnic lunch to eat at a scenic spot overlooking the ruins is a wonderful and time-efficient option. For dinner, upon your return to Constantine, you can relax and enjoy a more leisurely meal at your hotel or a city restaurant, reflecting on the incredible history you’ve witnessed.

The only practical way to visit both Djémila and Timgad as a day trip is by hiring a private car and driver from Constantine. The sites are located in different directions and are not easily connected by public transport. A private vehicle provides the necessary flexibility to travel between the sites efficiently and to manage your time according to your interests. You can arrange this service through your hotel or a local tour operator in Constantine. While it is an additional expense, it is the most effective and least stressful way to experience two of North Africa’s most significant and breathtaking archaeological wonders in a single, unforgettable day.

• Young Travelers: After settling in, visit the lively central market square in Ghardaïa in the early evening to watch local life unfold and perhaps try some local dates.
• Seniors: A relaxed arrival is key. Settle into your hotel, which may be a traditional guesthouse, and enjoy a quiet dinner, conserving energy for the next day’s exploration.
• Family: The flight is the most exciting part of the day for kids. Once in Ghardaïa, the new sights and sounds of a desert town will be a captivating experience.
• With Disability: Ensure you have booked accessible accommodation in advance. A pre-arranged, accessible transfer from the airport to the hotel is essential for a smooth arrival.
• Luxury: Stay in a high-quality guesthouse that offers an authentic yet comfortable experience. Arrange for a welcome mint tea ceremony upon arrival.
• Nature & Adventure: The flight itself offers a dramatic transition in scenery, from the greener north to the vast, arid landscapes of the Sahara, a true visual adventure.

• Luxury/Mid-Range: Le Palais Des Sables (Authentic Guesthouse experience)
• Mid-Range: Résidence Des Deux Palmiers
• Budget: Local guesthouses (maisons d’hôtes) often require direct booking.

Upon arrival in Ghardaïa, it is crucial to understand that exploring the M’Zab Valley, particularly the fortified towns like Beni Isguen, requires a local guide. Tourists are generally not permitted to enter these traditional communities unaccompanied. It is best to arrange your guide in advance through your hotel or a local tourism agency. This is not a mere formality; a guide is essential for navigating the complex social codes, respecting local customs, and gaining permission to enter these unique, living historical sites. Your guide will be your cultural interpreter and your key to unlocking the secrets of this fascinating and conservative society.

As you are now entering a more conservative region of Algeria, dressing modestly is of the utmost importance. For women, this means wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs completely, and it is highly recommended to carry a headscarf to be used when entering more traditional areas. Men should also opt for long trousers and shirts. The desert sun is intense, so lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal. A sun hat is essential. Adhering to the local dress code is a fundamental sign of respect and is necessary for a positive and welcome reception from the Mozabite community. This consideration is key to a successful visit to the M’Zab Valley.

For your first evening in Ghardaïa, your best option is often to dine at your hotel or guesthouse. Many accommodations in the M’Zab Valley offer excellent, home-cooked traditional dinners for their guests. This is a convenient and wonderful way to be introduced to the specific culinary traditions of the region, which may differ from what you experienced in the north. You might be served a delicious, slow-cooked stew, local vegetables, and the region’s famous dates. This relaxed dining experience allows you to settle in comfortably after your travel day and prepare for the explorations of the following day, all while enjoying authentic Mozabite hospitality and flavors.

The only practical method for traveling from Constantine to Ghardaïa is by domestic flight. While not always direct, and sometimes requiring a connection in Algiers, flying is vastly preferable to the extremely long and arduous overland journey. You will need to check the Air Algérie schedule and book your flights well in advance, as routes can be limited. The flight will take you from the northern coast deep into the Sahara, a dramatic transition you can witness from the air. Upon arrival at Ghardaïa’s Noumérat – Moufdi Zakaria Airport (GHA), a pre-arranged transfer to your hotel is the most reliable way to complete your journey into the heart of the M’Zab Valley.

• Young Travelers & Adventure: The adventure is cultural. Engage respectfully with your guide, ask questions, and try to understand the unique social system. Visiting the complex irrigation systems (foggaras) is also fascinating.
• Seniors: The walking can be extensive and involves hills and stairs. A guided tour can be paced appropriately, focusing on the main squares and mosques without covering every single alleyway.
• Family: This day is a profound cultural lesson. Explain the local customs (like rules on photography) to children beforehand to ensure a respectful visit. The unique architecture is visually stimulating for all ages.
• With Disability: The historic towns are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and narrow, steep lanes. A visit may be limited to the main market square of Ghardaïa and viewing the towns from a distance.
• Luxury: A top-tier local guide is the luxury here. They may be able to arrange a visit inside a traditional home for a more personal insight into Mozabite life.
• Nature: Explore the Palmeraie (palm grove) of Ghardaïa to understand the ancient irrigation systems that have allowed life to flourish in this arid oasis for centuries.

• Luxury/Mid-Range: Le Palais Des Sables
• Mid-Range: Résidence Des Deux Palmiers
• Budget: Local guesthouses (maisons d’hôtes).

Respectful photography is the most important rule to observe in the M’Zab Valley. In many areas, particularly within the walls of Beni Isguen, photography is strictly forbidden to protect the privacy of the local community. In other areas, you must always ask for permission from your guide before taking any pictures, especially of people. Your guide will advise you where and when it is appropriate to take photos. Do not try to sneak pictures. Adhering to these rules is a fundamental sign of respect for your hosts and their culture. By putting your camera away, you are often able to engage more deeply and observe more carefully, leading to a richer and more memorable experience.

Today, the conservative dress code is not just a recommendation but a requirement for entry into the traditional towns. For women, very loose-fitting clothing that fully covers the arms and legs is necessary, and a headscarf must be worn to cover your hair completely, especially in Beni Isguen. Men should wear long trousers and a shirt. Your guide will ensure your attire is appropriate before you enter the cities. Comfortable walking shoes are also essential. It is best to choose darker or neutral colors to be as inconspicuous as possible. Dressing in this highly respectful manner is crucial for being granted access and for showing your appreciation of the local culture and traditions.

Lunch will typically be arranged by your guide at a simple, local restaurant in Ghardaïa, between visits to the different towns. This offers a chance to sample authentic, everyday Mozabite food. Expect simple but delicious stews, couscous, or grilled meats. This is not a region known for elaborate restaurants, but for wholesome, traditional cooking. For dinner, returning to your guesthouse for a home-cooked meal is often the best and most comfortable option. The opportunity to eat local food in a traditional setting is a key part of the M’Zab Valley experience, offering insight into the flavors and ingredients of this unique Saharan oasis culture.

You cannot explore the fortified towns of the M’Zab Valley on your own; therefore, your entire day’s movement will be orchestrated by your local guide. They will typically arrange for a car and driver to transport you between the different towns of the pentapolis, such as Ghardaïa, Beni Isguen, and El Atteuf. You will travel with your guide from your hotel and spend the day moving between these locations, with most of the exploration within the towns done on foot. This guided approach is the only way to experience the region, ensuring that your visit is respectful, well-managed, and deeply informative, providing access that would otherwise be impossible for a foreign visitor.

• Young Travelers: Spend extra time in the market, practice your bargaining skills (respectfully), and seek out unique handicrafts like leatherwork or pottery.
• Seniors: A gentle walk through the shaded parts of the palm grove can be very pleasant. Enjoy the market from a seated position at a nearby cafe, absorbing the lively atmosphere.
• Family: The palm grove is a wonderful, shaded area for a walk. In the market, children might be interested in the colorful displays of spices and traditional sweets.
• With Disability: A vehicle can drive through parts of the palm grove. The main market square is flat and accessible, offering a great opportunity to experience the local culture.
• Luxury: Arrange for a special visit to a date farm within the palm grove to learn about the cultivation process and sample different varieties.
• Adventure: For a taste of the true desert, you could arrange a short, late-afternoon camel ride in the dunes just outside the valley, offering a classic Saharan experience.

• Luxury/Mid-Range: Le Palais Des Sables
• Mid-Range: Résidence Des Deux Palmiers
• Budget: Local guesthouses (maisons d’hôtes).

When shopping in the Ghardaïa market, remember that bargaining is part of the culture, but it should always be done with a friendly smile and a respectful attitude. It’s a good idea to first visit a state-run artisan shop (if available) to get a baseline for the prices of items like carpets and pottery. When you find something you like in the souk, never accept the first price offered, but also be realistic in your counter-offers. The goal is to agree on a price that is fair to both you and the vendor. This pleasant interaction is as much a part of the experience as the purchase itself. Ghardaïa is particularly famous for its high-quality Berber carpets.

The dress code for today remains conservative and modest, as you will still be in the traditional M’Zab Valley. Loose, long clothing for both men and women is appropriate. For women, keeping a headscarf handy is still a good idea, especially when interacting in the market. As you will be walking in both the potentially dusty palm grove and the bustling market, comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended. The sun will be strong, so a wide-brimmed hat is essential for protection. By continuing to dress with respect for the local culture, you ensure that your interactions remain positive and welcoming throughout your final day in this unique region.

Today is a great day to have a simple, casual lunch at a small eatery on the edge of the Ghardaïa market square. This allows you to stay immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the souk. You can find places serving quick and delicious local fare, such as grilled meats, sandwiches with traditional bread, and other simple dishes favored by local shoppers and merchants. For your final dinner in Ghardaïa, you might arrange for a special meal at your guesthouse, perhaps asking them to prepare a local specialty you have not yet tried. This provides a lovely, relaxed farewell to the unique cuisine and hospitality of the Mozabite people.

Your local guide and driver will once again be essential for today’s explorations. They will transport you from your hotel to the palm grove and then to the main market in Ghardaïa. Having a vehicle is particularly useful for navigating the sprawling palm grove area. Within the market itself, you will explore on foot. This combination of private transport for distances and walking for immersive exploration is the most effective way to experience the different facets of oasis life. Your guide’s presence in the market is also invaluable for communication, helping you to ask questions about products and interact with the local vendors.

• Young Travelers: Spend the afternoon exploring the modern Bab Ezzouar shopping mall for a final look at contemporary Algerian life and to buy any last-minute items.
• Seniors: A visit to the National Museum of Fine Arts, which is calm and climate-controlled, is a wonderful and relaxing cultural activity for the afternoon.
• Family: A return visit to the Jardin d’Essai du Hamma is always a great option, or explore the family-friendly areas along the Sablettes waterfront.
• With Disability: The National Museum of Fine Arts is largely accessible. A final drive along the corniche to enjoy the sea views is also a pleasant and accessible activity.
• Luxury: Indulge in a final high-end dinner at one of Algiers’ top gourmet restaurants, celebrating the end of your journey in style.
• Adventure: The adventure today is in independent exploration. Use the city’s tram or metro system to navigate to a new neighborhood and discover it on foot.

• Luxury: Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden
• Mid-Range: El-Aurassi Hotel
• Budget: ST Hostel

Use your last day to purchase unique Algerian souvenirs. Beyond the famous Berber carpets of Ghardaïa, look for high-quality leather goods, such as bags and slippers, copper and brassware, and beautiful local pottery. The main shopping street, Rue Didouche Mourad in Algiers, is an excellent place to find artisan shops and galleries. Remember that Algeria is not a country where you should expect to use your remaining Dinars at the airport before departure; currency cannot be taken out of the country and exchange facilities upon exit can be limited. Plan to spend your cash in the city. A beautiful piece of local craft makes for a wonderful and lasting memory of your trip.

Back in the more liberal and cosmopolitan capital, your attire can be slightly more relaxed than in the M’Zab Valley, but modesty is still the most respectful approach. Smart casual wear, such as trousers or a knee-length skirt with a comfortable top, is perfect for a day of museum visits or shopping. As you will be flying, comfortable clothes are a good choice. Having a light jacket or pashmina is always useful for air-conditioned museums or for the cooler evening temperatures. Comfortable shoes remain a priority for any last-minute explorations you may do on foot. This adaptable and respectful attire is suitable for a varied final day in Algiers.

For your farewell dinner, choose a restaurant that offers something special. This could be a place with a stunning view over the city, such as those found in some of the major hotels, or a highly-rated restaurant known for its exquisite Algerian or French cuisine. The areas of Hydra and El Biar are known for their upscale dining options. This last meal is a celebration of your journey, so it’s a good time to indulge. Make a reservation in advance, especially if you are choosing a popular, high-end establishment. A memorable final dinner provides the perfect opportunity to reminisce about the highlights of your adventure through this fascinating and beautiful country.

The journey from Ghardaïa back to Algiers will be by domestic flight on Air Algérie. It is essential to book this flight in advance and to confirm the schedule, as is common with domestic routes. Upon arrival at Algiers’ Houari Boumediene Airport, you will take a taxi to your hotel. For your final day’s explorations within Algiers, the city’s taxi network is the most convenient way to get around for longer distances, such as from the city center to the Bardo Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts. For shorter distances in the downtown area, walking is an excellent option. This combination of air and ground transport ensures an efficient return and a flexible final day.

• All Travelers: The primary activity today is preparing for your departure. Enjoy a relaxed final breakfast, pack your luggage, and ensure all your travel documents are in order. If time permits, a final coffee at a local cafe is a pleasant way to spend your last hour. The focus should be on a calm and organized departure, allowing you to leave with positive and stress-free final memories of Algeria.

Plan your journey to Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) well in advance. Traffic in Algiers can be heavy, so it is crucial to allow plenty of time for the trip. It is recommended to book a reliable taxi through your hotel. Remember that you cannot legally take Algerian Dinars out of the country, and opportunities to exchange them back to foreign currency at the airport can be complicated and time-consuming. Therefore, it is best to have spent most of your local currency before arriving at the airport. A smooth, well-timed departure is the perfect conclusion to a fantastic trip, ensuring you leave with nothing but fond memories of your time in Algeria.

For your day of departure, comfort is the most important consideration. Choose an outfit that is comfortable for your flight, especially if it is a long-haul journey. Loose-fitting trousers, joggers, and a soft t-shirt or sweater are ideal choices. Dressing in layers is a smart strategy, as it allows you to adapt to the different temperatures of the car, the airport terminal, and the airplane cabin. Wear comfortable, slip-on shoes to make the security process as easy as possible. This focus on comfort will ensure your journey home is as pleasant and relaxed as possible, providing a smooth end to your travels.

Your final meal in Algeria will likely be breakfast at your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely meal, savoring the local breads, pastries, and perhaps some final Algerian coffee. If you have a later flight, you might have time for a light lunch at a cafe near your hotel. Food options at the airport are available but can be limited, so having a meal before you leave for the airport is a good idea. Use this last meal as a final moment to enjoy the simple pleasures of Algerian daily life and cuisine before beginning your journey home, capping off your culinary tour of the country on a pleasant note.

The most reliable way to get to Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) for your departure is by a pre-booked, licensed taxi. Your hotel concierge can arrange this for you, ensuring a safe and timely transfer. It is important to agree upon the fare with the driver before you begin your journey if it is not a fixed hotel rate. Allow at least one hour for the journey from the city center, and more during peak traffic times, to ensure you arrive at the airport with ample time for check-in and security procedures. A pre-arranged transfer removes any last-minute stress, allowing for a calm and orderly conclusion to your trip.