Questions, answered

Most nationalities need a visa, normally obtained before travel from the Algerian consulate where you live. Once your trip is confirmed we send the supporting documents (invitation and bookings). For trips mainly in the Sahara, the UK and US governments indicate that a visa on arrival may be possible at some airports with a confirmed booking through an approved Algerian agency — ask us whether your itinerary qualifies before buying flights. Rules change: always confirm with your consulate (information checked 19 October 2026; not legal advice).

Processing times vary by consulate and nationality. Apply six to eight weeks before departure, as soon as you receive our documents, and book non-refundable flights only once your visa is granted.

Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your arrival date and have blank pages for the visa and stamps (UK and US government guidance, checked 19 October 2026).

October to April for the Sahara (Tassili, Hoggar, Taghit). March to June and September to November for the north (Algiers, Constantine, the coast). Summer is good for the coast but too hot for the desert.

Yes — most of our trips are tailor-made. Tell us your dates, group size, interests and budget using the quote form, and we will send a day-by-day proposal within two working days.

Not in practice: in the Saharan south, tourist travel is organised through licensed Algerian agencies with authorisations and an accompanying guide, and several governments advise against unaccompanied travel in remote desert areas. In the north, independent travel is possible; a local guide is recommended for sites such as the Casbah.

Our guides speak French and English, and of course Arabic and, in the south, Tamasheq. Ask us about Spanish-speaking guides for your dates.

Our published circuits start at around €600 per person for a city break and €1,200–€1,900 for a week in the Sahara, excluding international flights — each circuit page shows its price. Private trips depend on group size, season and comfort level.

The currency is the Algerian dinar (DZD). Cards are accepted in few places outside large hotels, so bring euros in cash to exchange at banks or official offices, and declare foreign currency on arrival. Non-residents may not take dinars out of the country.

Tips are not compulsory but are appreciated, especially by desert crews (guide, drivers and cook) at the end of a trip. We can suggest an amount when you book.

Travellers generally find Algerians very welcoming. Governments do publish specific advice: as of 19 October 2026, the US rates Algeria Level 2 ("Exercise increased caution") with Level 4 for some southern provinces and border areas; the UK advises against travel within 30 km of several borders; France advises against the south and east. Our desert trips are organised with the required authorisations and local guides, and routes are adapted if conditions change. Please read your government's advice and check your insurance before booking — see our practical information page.

A warm sleeping bag, walking shoes, sun protection, a scarf, a headlamp and layers for cold nights. We send a full packing list after booking.

Cities and main roads have good 4G coverage (Mobilis, Djezzy, Ooredoo), but most desert areas have no signal. Our desert teams carry satellite communication for emergencies.

In the desert our cooks prepare fresh meals: salads, tagines, couscous, bread baked in the sand and plenty of mint tea. Vegetarian and other dietary needs can be catered for — tell us in advance.