Algeria Introduction Tour

Day 1 Algiers
Arrive in Algiers and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Algiers including the Place des Martyrs and the neo-Moorish ‘Grande Poste’ building.

Day 2  Tipasa
Today we head out of the capital to Tipasa, home to an amazing collection of archaeological remains. We visit the ‘Tomb of the Christian’, believed to date back to the 3rd century BC and belonging to the Numidian people. We also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fantastic collection of Roman ruins overlooking the sea including villas and an ancient amphitheatre.

Day 3  Oran
This morning we drive along the coast to Oran, Algeria’s second city. We spend time exploring the city including the Bey’s Palace and the 18th century Grand Mosque.

Day 4 Oran
We continue our exploration of Oran including the colonial era theatre and the picturesque Santa Cruz area with its pretty church and fortress, with great views over the whole of the city.

Day 5  Tlemcen
Travel to Tlemcen, once an important town which still contains a superb collection of historic buildings. Visit the Grand Mosque, one of the most important Islamic buildings in North Africa, the ruins of 13th century Mansourah and the tomb of Sidi Boumedienne

Day 6  Constantine
This morning we take a flight across the country to Constantine. On arrival you will be met and transferred to the hotel. This afternoon we have a tour of Constantine including the museum, Casbah, suspension bridge, and the Palace of Ahmed Bey.

Day 7  Batna
Today we head south to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Timgad (huge library, colonnaded streets, temples, amphitheatre, arch of Trajan, basilica) before continuing to the Roman garrison town of Lambaesis. We then check in at our hotel in Batna.

Day 8 Djemila
An early morning departure for Setif and a whole-day excursion to UNESCO World Heritage site of Djemila and the ancient garrison of Cuicul. You will view the forum, temples, basilicas, triumphal arches and museum followed by a visit to Sétif an the archaeological museum with splendid Bacchus mosaic. Later that day we continue to Algiers airport for flight to Ghardaia (approx 1830) where on arrival you are met and taken to your hotel.

Day 9 Mzab Valley
A full day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage listed Mzab Valley. Made up of five separate towns, the Mzab is a glimpse of a world that has long since disappeared elsewhere, staunchly traditional and isolated by the Sahara. With lively markets, twisting narrow lanes and women in traditional dress, it is easy to imagine that you are walking through a bygone era.

Day 10 Mzab Valley
Another day to explore the Mzab Valley and the oasis of Beni Isguen. Later we transfer to the airport to fly back to Algiers. You will be met on arrival and taken to your hotel

Day 11 Algiers
Explore the city, including the impressive Notre Dame d’Afrique church and the casbah, the most traditional area of the city. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore further

Day 12  Departure
Today is at leisure until the time comes to transfer to the airport for your international flight.