algeria

Algeria Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in Algeria

Algeria, a country of diverse landscapes ranging from the Sahara Desert to the Mediterranean coastline, is home to a fascinating variety of wildlife. From the elusive Barbary macaques that inhabit the Atlas Mountains to the graceful addax antelope that roams the desert, Algeria offers a unique opportunity to encounter a wide range of animal species.

Embark on a journey through the animal kingdom of Algeria. Witness the majestic presence of the Saharan cheetah, a critically endangered species that still roams the desert regions. Marvel at the sight of the slender-horned gazelle, a symbol of resilience in the harsh desert environment. And don't miss the opportunity to observe the striking Barbary red deer, a species that has found refuge in the forests of the Tell Atlas. Algeria's wildlife is a testament to the country's natural heritage and a source of wonder for visitors seeking to connect with the natural world.

Mammals of Algeria

In the diverse landscapes of Algeria, from the Mediterranean coast to the Saharan dunes, one can encounter a variety of fascinating mammals. The graceful gazelles, such as the Dorcas gazelle and the slender-horned gazelle, elegantly roam the arid regions, while the Barbary macaque, a primate unique to North Africa, inhabits the dense cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains. The fennec fox, with its distinctive large ears, is a charming desert dweller, perfectly adapted to the Sahara's harsh environment. In the more vegetated areas, the wild boar can be found, and the secretive crested porcupine emerges at night. These species are just a glimpse of the rich mammalian fauna that Algeria has to offer to the wildlife enthusiast.

Birds of Algeria

Algeria, with its diverse landscapes, is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a rich avifauna that includes the striking Algerian Nuthatch, endemic to the Kabylie region's oak forests. The wetlands, like those at El Kala National Park, are a sanctuary for migratory species such as the Greater Flamingo and the Purple Heron, offering a spectacular sight for visitors. In the Sahara's arid expanses, one might spot the resilient Houbara Bustard or the elegant Cream-colored Courser. The coastal cliffs provide nesting grounds for the Audouin's Gull, a Mediterranean specialty. Whether in the lush Tell Atlas or the sweeping desert, Algeria's birdlife offers a captivating glimpse into the country's natural heritage.

Reptiles

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in Algeria

  • El Kala National Park, situated in the northeastern corner of Algeria, near the border with Tunisia, is a haven for birdwatchers. This park is a Ramsar Wetland site and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, featuring a mix of Mediterranean forests, wetlands, and marine habitats. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species such as the purple gallinule, the white-headed duck, and the ferruginous duck. The park is also home to the endangered Audouin's gull and the African marsh owl.
  • Tassili n'Ajjer National Park, located in the southeast of Algeria, is a vast plateau that encompasses a stretch of the Sahara Desert. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only famous for its prehistoric rock art but also for its unique Saharan wildlife. The park is home to the addax, a critically endangered desert antelope, and the Barbary sheep, which is adapted to the arid environment. The park also provides habitat for the Saharan cheetah, although sightings are rare due to its elusive nature.
  • Theniet El Had National Park, nestled in the Tell Atlas mountain range, is a forested area that offers a cooler climate and a different set of wildlife. Visitors can encounter the Barbary macaque, a primate species native to the Atlas Mountains. The park is also a good place to see the red fox and the golden jackal, as well as a variety of birds, including the booted eagle and the short-toed snake eagle.
  • Gouraya National Park, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea near the city of Bejaia, is known for its biodiversity and scenic landscapes. The park's coastal location and mountainous terrain provide a habitat for the endangered Barbary stag, a deer species native to North Africa. Bird enthusiasts can observe the peregrine falcon and the European shag along the cliffs. The park also supports a population of the common genet, a small nocturnal carnivore.
  • Ahaggar National Park, also known as Hoggar, is situated in the central Sahara region of Algeria. This mountainous area is characterized by its dramatic rock formations and ancient volcanic landscapes. The park is home to several species of reptiles and rodents adapted to the desert environment. Visitors may spot the Fennec fox, the world's smallest canid, with its distinctive large ears that help dissipate heat.
  • Djurdjura National Park, part of the Djurdjura mountain range in the Kabylie region, is a biodiversity hotspot with dense forests and deep gorges. The park is one of the last refuges for the endangered Barbary macaque. It also hosts a variety of bird species, including the Algerian nuthatch, which is endemic to the region, and the rare Lammergeier, or bearded vulture.

Where to next? Discover country icon Western Sahara, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder