Algeria is the country where travelers get the purest North African travel experience. The locals give their best smile and are always willing to help. There is no other country where you will feel more welcome than in Algeria. The country is huge, it’s the largest in Africa, and the towns are far from each other, so it is recommended to at least take 2 weeks to see some of the highlights. Use this 2-week Algeria Itinerary to plan your trip.
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- Algeria Travel Route
- Can you do this 2 Week Algeria itinerary by public transport?
- 2-week Algeria Itinerary: Route Map
A 2-week Algeria Itinerary
Because Algeria has decent roads with spectacular sceneries, I have put together an itinerary that covers the Sahara, coast, and historical sites. This 2-week itinerary will give you the opportunity to see some highlights of the country, although creating the perfect Algeria route can be difficult. It’s a self-drive road-trip, but could also be used to plan a trip by public transport if you prefer.
Day 1-2: Algiers
Algiers is the city where I was born and bred. For the longest time, this was my least favorite city in the whole world. Overcrowded and lacks charm. Then I traveled the world, and my perception of Algiers completely changed. This Mediterranean city really boasts uniqueness.
Algiers is a city of contrasts, it has vibes, and looks like an outdoor architectural museum. It does not have the elegance of the European cities, but the typical French facades make you feel like you are in Europe. Here, the laundry is hanged to dry in the sun and some balconies are neglected but that’s what gives Algiers its unique identity.
There is a load of things to see in Algiers, from historical sights to interesting museums, to crazy street markets. For inspiration, take a look at my 2-day Algiers itinerary, which covers the major highlights of the city, or read my Algiers travel guide to plan your visit.
Day trip from Algiers: Tipaza
You cannot claim that you have been in Algiers without visiting Tipaza’s Roman ruins.
There is just an incredible wealth of Roman ruins in Algeria. The closest site to Algiers is located in Tipaza, a laidback seaside town about an hour outside of the capital city.
Surrounded by history, Tipaza comprises a unique group of ruins alongside indigenous monuments. Stroll around the ruins by the shore, visit the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, and stop for lunch at one of the seafood restaurants.
Day 4-5: Ghardaia
From Algiers, we’re going to wave farewell to the coast and head up to the Sahara. Traveling from Algiers to Ghardaia may seem like traveling to another country. The reason for that is that the landscapes, language, culture, and clothing are widely different.
Ghardaia is probably the most conservative city in Algeria. It’s famous for its Mzab Valley, a geographical site also known for its unique architecture and way of life.
Built in the 10th century by the Ibadites (a branch of the Amazigh ethnicity), this compact city consists of five fortified ksours designed for community living and perfectly adapted to the environment. Unesco named Mzab Valley World Heritage, so the uniqueness of this city is being preserved.
Hire a guide and explore the labyrinth of narrow streets, watch the children playing, wander around the rug market, and learn about the Mozabit culture. This place is like no other, so make the most of your visit.
- Getting from Algiers to Ghardaia takes about 7 hours.
Day 6-8: Timimoun
From Ghardaia move to Timimoun, the red town. On the way, you’ll be seeing some stunningly beautiful landscapes and the varied colors of the desert. You’ll find yourself alone much of the time. Worth taking a bit of time to stop and admire the beauty of nature, in my opinion.
Then, of course, it’s up to Timimoun, where you’ll not be short of amazing landscapes to look at. From the red dunes, palm groves, to red villages, this place is all about enjoying the serenity of the desert.
- Ghardaia to Timimoun is a 7-hour drive.
Day 9-10: Taghit
After spending a few days in Timimoun, it’s time to head up to one of the most beautiful oasis in the Sahara, Taghit.
Known as the Enchantress, Taghit has some of the highest sand dunes in the Sahara desert, reaching 190 meters high. Climb to the top of the sand dunes, watch the sunset, visit the Ksar and rock art sites, and have fun skiing down the dunes.
- Getting from Timimoun to Taghit takes about 5 hours
Day 11-12: Tlemcen
From Taghit I’m going to suggest heading up north, towards Tlemcen. This city is Algeria’s most westerly city, and it features a wealth of historical sites.
From the incredible great mosque to the winding alleyways of the medina, to the Mechouar Palace, from Lalla Setti Plateau to Mansourah ruins – this is a city that just cries out for exploration.
- Getting from Taghit to Tlemcen takes about 8 hours.
Day 13-14: Oran
Oran is Algeria’s second-largest city. It lies along the Mediterranean coast at the point where Algeria is closest to Spain.
For centuries, the city has been an important Spanish port. It has also been ruled by the Romans, the Ottomans, and the French.
Today Oran is a lively city where you can feel the Mediterranean vibes. Walk along the seaside promenade, visit Santa Cruz Fort, step inside Sacré Coeur Cathedrale, and wander around the Bey Palace. There really is enough here for a number of days of sightseeing.
Back to Algiers
The last day of your two-week itinerary takes you back to Algiers. You have now seen some of Algeria’s best places to visit. You’ve had some adventures and some time to unwind, some city explorations and Sahara expeditions. Now it’s time to head to the airport and go back home!
Alternative Algeria itinerary options
Is your time in Algeria limited? I’ve built two beautiful 10- day Algeria itineraries.
Can you do this 2 Week Algeria itinerary by public transport?
A popular question from people traveling to Algeria is whether or not this itinerary can be done by public transport. I understand that not everyone wants to drive, and the answer is yes.
There are flight, rail, bus, and shared taxi links but it can slow you down a bit, and so you would need to adjust the itinerary a little to fit the schedule.
Also, tickets and bus timetables are not available online, but this should not be a problem. Inform your hosts of your travel plans, as they usually have the timetable, and get your tickets at the station the day of travel.
Finally, if you are traveling by public transport, I recommend you have your flights home depart from Oran.
2-week Algeria Itinerary: Route Map
Here’s a map of the route, for your reference.
And that sums up my 2-week Algeria itinerary. I have also written a complete Algeria travel guide to help you plan your trip. Check it out!
➵ Read: The ultimate Algeria Travel Guide
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eg1990 says
Do you have any personal experience or thoughts about trips more to the east of Algiers? We are in the later stages of planning a 12 day self-driving tour – we just submitted our visa applications – in addition to a 6 day tour of in Tassili and 3 day stay in Algiers. We were thinking something like Algiers – Setif (just for Djemila) – Constantine (for itself and also for Timgad) – Skikda_or_Annaba – Bejaia – Algiers.
I’ve read the Petit Fute which I think is the only modern guidebook on Algeria. I’ve also talked to a number of Algerian friends, but none of them have been anywhere in their own country besides their hometown + Algiers, even the ones who grew up there and go back regularly. I have also, as I mentioned on your other post, found SO few blogs online with experience of Algeria… and most of them are non-Algerians who only saw one part of the country and can’t really say anything about other alternative itineraries.
We’re committed to focusing on the east of Algiers as we’ve both always wanted to go to Constantine. My family – who lived in Algiers for many years way before I was born – also absolutely loved the landscape and atmosphere Bejaia (in like… 1975). We love scenic drives and landscapes, so the whole north coast looks incredible for us too.
Nesrine says
Hi there, Indeed, the limited information available on tourism can make it a bit of a challenge to plan a trip to Algeria. Exploring the eastern region by car is not a bad option, the roads are generally in good condition but be aware that the locals drive in a reckless manner. The itinerary you’ve suggested is great and includes destinations that are easily accessible.
If you speak french, it will greatly help you to rent a car and to communicate in general as not many people speak English. Additionally, the locals are known to be friendly and always willing to help, so don’t hesitate to ask for information if you need it.
Also, I think that Couchsurfing is worth considering. Many hosts will be happy to show you around their city and give you a true insider’s perspective. It’s a great way to gain access to hidden places and unique experiences. wishing you great adventures
Robert says
Can you recommend tour companies – based in Algeria – for private tour with driver/guide?