Algeria

Algeria is not generally considered to be a tourist destination and despite a gradual decline in violence between the 1990s and now, there has been an increase over the last four years in attacks directed specifically at foreigners. A copycat Al-Qaeda organisation has orchestrated violent attacks on UN workers and Americans in particular. That said, for those who can't avoid travel to the region, Algeria is not short on sightseeing opportunities.

The capital city of Algiers, sitting on the northern coastline, is a growing metropolis. Once a strategic point of entry for would be conquerors from Europe and the Middle East, it now welcomes the presence of multi-nationals such as Carrefour and Quick. Historically the most popular remnant of battles waged on the city's coast is the Cashbah, the labyrinth citadel (now a world heritage site) which was first built in 1660. Also along the coast is Tipasa, a pleasant seaside village which holds some spectacular Roman ruins. Timgad, which is further south, holds North Africa's most extensive and best preserved Roman Ruins.

Typically Mediterranean in climate, Algeria has warm sandy beaches, particularly around Oran, a popular tourist destination in the summer months. The infamous Sahara Desert begins right where the coast ends, rocky at first, elevating over the vast Haut Plateaux (High Plateaus) before becoming untold miles of sand and sun. In the far south of Algeria is the Hoggar mountain region which holds the nation's highest peak, the Tahat Mountian, and caverns of rock paintings dating back to the time of the Berbers, over 10,000 years ago.

Climate

Algeria holds all the hallmarks of a Mediterranean climate. Warm but wet in the winter along the coast while extremely cold on the higher plateau. Summers are dry along the coast and downright arid as you progress inland. The hot sirocco wind can make for an unpleasant summer.

Money

The unit of currency is the Algeria Dinar (DZD), which is divided into 100 centimes.

Passport Visa

Passport must be valid for at least six months after intended stay. Visas are required for all visitors except when in transit and spending less than 24 hours without leaving the airport. A transit visa for up to 48 hours can be obtained from airport authorities. Visitors may be required to produce return/onward tickets, other documents for next destination and proof of sufficient funds.

Entry Requirements

• US nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.
• UK nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.
• Canadian nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.
• Australian nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.
• South African nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.
• Irish nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.
• New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival. Visa required.

Health

Travellers visiting Algeria should be aware of the risk of malaria and the use of mosquito nets and repellent will help reduce the risk of contracting the disease. Travellers should also make sure they receive a booster hepatitis A vaccine before travelling to Algeria. A tetanus booster vaccine is also recommended and rabies occurs in some parts of the country so travellers coming into contact with wild animals should be cautious. HIV/AIDS is also prevalent throughout the country.

Embassy Consulates

• Algerian Embassy, Washington: +1 202 265 2800
• Algerian Embassy, London (also responsible for Ireland): +44 020 7589 6885
• Algerian Embassy, Ottowa: +1 613 789 8505
• Algerian Embassy, Canberra (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 02 6286 7355
• Algerian Embassy, Pretoria: +27 12 342 5074

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Algiers: +213 0770 082 000
• United Kingdom Embassy, Algiers: + 213 (0)770 085 000
• Canadian Embassy, Algiers: +213 0770 08 30 00
• Australian Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Algeria): +33 1 4059 3300
• South African Embassy, Algiers: +213 21 484 418
• Embassy of Ireland, Berne, Switzerland (also responsible for Algeria): +41 31 352 1442
• New Zealand Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Algeria): +33 1 4501 4343