Backpacking or traveling in Algeria?

• Algeria, Africa's largest country, offers travelers a unique blend of natural wonders, historical sites, and a rich culture deeply rooted in Arab, Berber and French influences. The country is known for its vast deserts, Mediterranean coastline, and impressive ruins from Roman times.
• Activity spotting: visit the Tassili n'Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Sahara; discover the Roman ruins of Timgad; explore Algiers (the white city), walk through the Kasbah; explore the Sahara in Timimoun; visit the Ahaggar Mountains; see the Ruins of Djemila; dive into the Mediterranean Sea; ski (Yes REALLY!) in Chréa National Park; admire the city of Constantine with its spectacular gorges and ancient bridges. 
• Animal spotting: Dorcas gazelle, Barbary lion, Fennek fox, Barbary macaques, gazelles, porcupine, golden jackal, lanner falcon, marbled duck, Barbary partridge, crossbill, Theban slit-nosed bat, desert cat, caracal, striped hyena etc etc etc! 
• Food spotting: the original couscous (not like the Dutch one), chorba (soup), merguez (sausages), makroud (sweet pastry), tagine (slow braised dish), kesra (flatbread). 

Studying in Algeria?

• Education in Algeria has made great strides in recent years, especially in higher education. Algeria has several universities of relatively good quality with a choice of many fields of study. 
• Popular studies include engineering (especially in oil and gas), IT, medicine and Islamic studies. It can also be interesting to study geology and other sciences because of the dominance of the petroleum industry, or history, archaeology and philosophy of Arab culture. 
• Study cities: Algiers, Oran and Constantine. 
• Language: Arabic and French, but also some English programs.

Internship in Algeria?

• Algeria offers several internship options, especially in sectors such as the energy industry, construction and education. International NGOs and companies also offer opportunities in humanitarian aid and development work.
• Competencies: language skills (Arabic and French), intercultural communicaite, problem-solving skills, flexibility and adaptability.

Volunteer in Algeria?

• Volunteering in Algeria is not very easy to find, but can range from education to environmental and community development. Many projects focus on supporting rural areas, children's education programs, and environmental initiatives in vulnerable areas such as the Sahara Desert.
• You can also find volunteer work with private individuals, often in exchange for board and lodging. Consider helping in tourism or language exchange, for example. 

Working in Algeria?

• Finding work in Algeria can be challenging, but there are opportunities for foreigners, especially in sectors such as oil and gas, construction, medicine, and education. Many international companies operate in the energy industry and seek foreign expertise. Also, the tourism industry is growing which can provide new opportunities for expats. 
• Foreign teachers, especially for teaching English, and doctors are also in demand. 
• Algiers, Oran, and Constantine are the main cities for employment.
• Work culture: hierarchical and formal, personal relationships are important (as is patience, that is), and appearance also plays a role. Dress Western and formal, with women also covering shoulders and legs. The work week lasts from Sunday to Thursday. 

Working as a digital nomad in Algeria?

• Algeria is not yet known as a hotspot for digital nomads, but it offers potential for those looking for a unique experience. Internet connectivity can be variable, especially outside major cities, but co-working spaces are available in Algiers and Oran. The low cost of living and exciting cultural offerings can be attractive to digital nomads.

Living in Algeria?

• A combination of having your favorite amenities close by, while being far away from Western stress. Enjoy beautiful cities with fine restaurants and lively markets, or explore simpler life in more rural areas. 
• For expat families, there are a number of international schools in Algiers and Oran, including French and English-speaking schools. There are also good elementary school for younger children, but educational opportunities may be more limited in rural areas.
• Algeria is generally safe, but there are still areas where travelers and expats should be extra careful, especially near the Sahara and on the borders with Libya and Mali. In the cities, it is wise to take the normal precautions.
• It helps tremendously if you speak French or Arabic, as English is not widely spoken. 
• Respect for local traditions and religion is also essential. Algeria is a predominantly Islamic country and adherence to cultural norms, such as dress and behavior, is appreciated. 
• Health insurance: health care in Algeria is generally accessible, and both public and private clinics are available, especially in the cities. However, the quality of care at public hospitals can vary, and expats often opt for private care. So be sure to have your own well-covered health insurance to cover costs.

Stories, tips and experiences from Algeria