Algeria Travel Safety

Road safety

Road conditions can be poor outside of Algiers and signposts are rare. Rent a car with a driver rather than driving. Traffic can be very congested, particularly in large urban centres, and speeding and poor driving habits are prevalent. There are checkpoints on the main roads heading into and out of larger cities, and on roads throughout Algiers. Avoid using public transportation, including taxis, between airports and city centres, especially after dark. Make arrangements in advance to be picked up and dropped off at the airport by your hosts or by hotel shuttles. Be extremely vigilant at roadblocks and stop only for police in official uniforms.

Taxis

Taxis follow a standard route and pick up many clients going in the same direction. They generally only serve the city centre, and their availability is sporadic, particularly late at night and during peak hours.

Public transportation

Avoid buses, as they have been targeted by terrorists and bandits.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Algeria, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of precaution during travel.

Crime

Street crime, such as robbery and theft, can occur in larger cities, particularly after dark. If you are travelling by car, lock your belongings in the trunk and keep the doors locked at all times. Park your car in a guarded parking lot.

Kidnapping

There is a threat of kidnapping in Algeria. Foreigners have been taken hostage, and in some cases executed. Terrorist groups have attacked oil and natural gas operations in Algeria and taken and killed hostages during these attacks.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks, causing deaths and injuries, have occured regularly, particularly in the mountains of the Kabylie region southeast of Algiers. Algerian security forces are usually the primary target. While urban centres are reported to be more secure than heavily wooded and mountainous rural areas, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Targets could include government buildings and public areas. Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places. Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, however, keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

Dress and behaviour

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in Algeria's customs, laws and regulations. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly, and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. During the lunar month of Ramadan refrain from drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Women should avoid clothing that could be construed as too revealing as it could attract unwanted attention.

LGBT

Homosexuality is illegal in Algeria. Sexual acts between people of the same sex are punishable by imprisonment.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal and controlled drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect detention or other penalties.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended.