Hostels in Algeria

Officially known as the people's republic of Algeria, this sovereign state on the North African Mediterranean coast is the largest on the continent. Its capital city is Algiers in the country's far north, and is the country's most populous and happening city. Algeria’s name is derived from the name of the city, Algiers, which in Arabic, means "The Islands." Its climate is hot during the day and cold at night, and there is fairly good rainfall along the coast. Algeria's vast wildlife, scenic coasts, mountains, and deserts draw people throughout the year. Several hostels in Algeria provide accommodation for visitors, and most are clean, economical, and comfortable.

The wildlife in Algeria is diverse, as it has coastal, mountainous, and desert-like regions. Most of the wildlife live in close proximity of the civilization, and animals that are seen most commonly include wild boars, gazelles, jackals, foxes, and jerboas. Look out for Algeria's rarer species on your visit there, such as the small African leopard and the Saharan cheetah.

Algeria has many charming cities with winding streets, stunning architecture, lush landscapes, rolling coastlines, and ancient Roman ruins that are just waiting to be explored. The country's main attraction is the almost unending sea of Saharan sand. Rivaling the Saharan region in its tourist appeal are Algeria's cities, with their interesting lifestyle, hospitality and fun activities. The people here are very hospitable and often go out of their way to help travelers feel comfortable and at home.

The capital city of Algiers -- with its stunning architecture and old-world culture -- is a great place from which to start off your trip. Walking through the ancient Casbah, you will see streets flowing through the city like a winding maze! A decadent mansion known as the Dar Hassan Pacha is also one of the city's attractions, and you should definitely put it on your list of places to visit in Algiers.

A little more difficult to reach is the Atakor Plateau, situated within Ahaggar National Park. Its brownish red landscape with harsh, sheer peaks challenges anyone who loves a tough terrain and wants an unforgettable hiking experience. The Assekrem Peak, which when translated literally means "the end of the world," is the highlight of this entire region and is a fitting description of the view that you get from its peak, and of the rugged harshness of the landscape.

On your visit to Algeria, be sure to stop off at the lively modern town of Tamanrasset and the port cities of Oran and Annaba. If you thrive on adventure and fantasy, be sure to visit Constantine, where the majority of the city is accessible by crossing a bridge across a large canyon. Enjoy an awe-inspiring view of your surroundings as you make your way across this marvel of nature. Most Algerian cities have comfortable Algeria hostels at which you can book your stay. Plan your itinerary and book your hostels in Algeria in advance, so that your trip through this glorious country goes as planned. While on your tour of Algeria, carry a small handbook on basic French conversation if you don't know French, as this is the most widely spoken language here.

Handwritten by local expert for Algeria hostels Joy Barboza