Algeria 7-Day Travel Guide
A Week-Long Trip to Algeria: A Symphony of Mediterranean Blue and Sahara Gold. Roman ruins that transcend time, starry nights in the Sahara Desert, Ottoman-style old town alleyways, and cliffside roads along the Mediterranean coast.
Itinerary Overview
① Core Itinerary: Algiers (2 days) → Tipasa/Cherchel (1 day) → Flight to Ouargra (3 days, including desert tour) → Return to Algiers or Oran (1 day) → Departure
② Best Season: October to April (mild climate, suitable desert conditions)
③ Visa and Safety: Chinese citizens need to apply for a visa in advance; it is recommended to apply through a qualified travel agency. City tourist areas are relatively safe; for the southern desert, it is essential to travel through a reputable travel agency.
Days 1-2: Algiers - White City and the Song of the Gulf
Accommodation: It is recommended to stay in Hama or near the seaside for convenient transportation.
* **Day 1 (Cultural Immersion):** Morning: Stroll through the old town of Kasbah (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), searching for traces of the Ottoman era in its intricate alleyways. Afternoon: Visit the Notre-Dame de Africa, climbing to the top for panoramic views of the city and bay. Evening: Head to Martyrs' Square to feel the pulse of modern Algiers.
* **Day 2 (Art and Sea):** Morning: Visit the Bardo National Museum (rich in mosaics). Afternoon: Take a walk in the Botanical Garden. Evening: Drive along the Mediterranean Promenade and have dinner at the Sidi Frederick fishing port, enjoying fried fish and North African coffee.
* **Food Recommendations:** Couscous (Friday Special), Seafood Soup, Shakshulka.
* **Day 3:** Tipasa - Roman Ruins and the End of the World
* **Transportation:** Rent a car or hire a driver and drive 70 km west.
* **Itinerary:** Morning: Explore the Tipasa Archaeological Park, with the Roman theater, church ruins, and the Mediterranean Sea just steps away. Afternoon: Continue west to Cercil, visiting the more tranquil Roman ruins. Overnight stay at a beachfront hotel in Tipasa, falling asleep to the sound of the waves.
Day 4-6: The Gates of the Sahara - A Desert Adventure in Ouargra
· Transportation: Morning flight to Ouargra (approx. 2 hours).
· Day 4 (Oasis Exploration): Upon arrival, visit the old town and palm groves of Ouargra, experiencing traditional adobe architecture. Evening camel ride to watch the sunset on the edge of the desert.
· Day 5-6 (Desert Adventure): Join a professional desert tour (recommended two-day trip), traveling by 4WD to El Golea or Mairzug. Highlights:
· Dune bashing and photography in the golden sands.
· Overnight stay at a desert camp, enjoying mint tea around a fire while gazing at the Milky Way.
· Visit the Isseton Oasis to learn about ancient irrigation systems.
· Notes: Prepare a headscarf, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen; respect local Bedouin customs.
Day 7: Oran or Algiers - Farewell
· Option A (Oran): Fly from Ouargra to Oran (with a layover in Algiers if necessary). Visit Santa Cruz Castle and the seaside church, and stroll along Mirs-Skibir Bay.
· Option B (Algiers): Return to the capital and purchase dates, desert roses, and traditional pottery as souvenirs. In the evening, head to the vicinity of Al-Alia Airport to pack.
Budget and Tips
① Mid-range Budget: Approximately 8,000-12,000 RMB (including international and domestic flights, desert tour, meals, and accommodation).
② Transportation Tips: Use Careem for taxis within cities; prioritize air travel (primarily ASAL) for intercity travel; book a professional car service through a travel agency for the desert leg of the journey.
③ Cultural Etiquette: Dress conservatively when entering mosques (long sleeves, long trousers, and a headscarf); obtain permission from locals before taking photos; avoid eating in public places during the day during Ramadan.
④ Essential Items: Travel adapter (European standard), stomach medicine, moisturizer, lightweight windproof jacket.
Algeria's charm lies in its extreme contrasts—one can wander among ancient Roman colonnades in the morning and see camel shadows cast on endless sand dunes by evening. This land deserves a slower pace; savor the Mediterranean blue with your eyes and feel the Sahara wind on your skin. The desert teaches humility, ancient ruins inspire contemplation, and Algeria lets you hear the echoes of history and eternity simultaneously. Have a pleasant journey!