Navigation
Select Country
Map Layers
Algeria
- The principal concerns for foreign nationals in Algeria include moderate risks related to general crime and political stability, along with the presence of small-scale militant groups in rural provinces.
- While Algeria enjoys relative political stability, areas with historical tensions, such as the Kabylie region, require extra caution while traveling.
Risk Factors
- Avoid travel to areas within 30km of the borders with Mali, Niger, Mauritania, Libya, and Tunisia due to risk of terrorism, armed conflict, and kidnapping. Special permits and professional security arrangements are essential for travel in these regions.
- Travel to the vast southern provinces, including parts of the Sahara Desert, should only be undertaken with prior approval from Algerian authorities and accompanied by security professionals familiar with the area.
- In cities like Algiers, Oran, and Constantine, be vigilant of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other forms of petty theft, particularly in crowded markets, tourist landmarks, and public transport hubs. Women are advised to be extra cautious during nighttime and avoid poorly lit areas.
- Urban areas such as Algiers and Oran tend to have lower levels of violent crime compared to more remote or less-policed areas. Foreign nationals are not typically targeted, but there have been instances of violent crime, including armed robberies and assaults, particularly in isolated or poorly monitored regions.
- It is best to avoid local or intercity buses and car rentals. Though prone to overcharging, taxis are safe to hail off the street. Official taxis are typically yellow.
- Travelers should be aware of the increased risks of carjacking and robbery, especially in remote areas. There have been reports of criminals impersonating police officers or setting up fake roadblocks to rob travelers.
- To avoid fake roadblocks, hire trusted, licensed transportation services or local guides familiar with the area; this ensures only well-traveled and monitored roads are used. Refrain from overland travel at night, when risks of encountering fake roadblocks are highest.
- Terrorism remains a concern, despite successful counterterrorism campaigns. The key targets are security forces and government officials; however, threats against foreign nationals cannot be discounted.
- Political demonstrations are common and can escalate quickly. Foreigners are advised to stay clear of any large gatherings, protests, or strikes, particularly those without official sanction which can lead to arrests and violence. Monitor alerts to stay abreast of developments.
- Kidnapping in urban centers is rare; foreign nationals have not witnessed kidnapping by terror or criminal groups in Algeria since 2014.
- Areas particularly affected include remote parts of southern Algeria where terrorist groups also operate. Travel here should only be considered for critical purposes and with robust security measures in place.
- Northern Algeria, including cities like Algiers, is situated in a seismically active zone along the Mediterranean seismic belt, posing a risk of moderate to strong earthquakes. Book modern and reputable accommodations, which are more likely to be built to seismic code.
- Flooding risks in Algeria primarily occur in northern and coastal regions during the autumn and winter months due to heavy rains. Travelers can mitigate this risk by avoiding low-lying and wadi (dry riverbeds) areas during storms when heavy rains are forecast.
- The legal and social environment in Algeria is conservative. Photography of government buildings, military sites, and other sensitive areas is strictly prohibited and can lead to detention. Women should wear a headscarf when visiting religious sites.