When to go
The best time to visit
Algiers and the coastal cities, but also those of the mountainous belt, is spring, and in particular the months of April and May. Autumn is also a good season, especially the month of October, which, however, is more rainy. You can then choose September, which, however, can still be hot during the day.
If you want to visit the
Algerian desert, the best season is winter, from December to February, especially in the southern part: it is true that at night it is cold, but during the day the sun shines and the temperature is pleasant. In the northern part of the desert (see Biskra), which in winter is more often cold, you may prefer the months of March and November.
You can go to the
beach from mid-May to October, although, as we mentioned, the sea becomes warm enough for swimming in July, and given that the rains may start by October, the best time for a beach holiday runs from July to September.
What to pack in the suitcase
In
winter: for Algiers and the coast, bring spring/autumn clothes, a jacket and a sweater, and a raincoat or umbrella. For the hilly and mountainous areas of the north, bring warm clothes, such as a down jacket, and a hat. For the desert, spring/autumn clothes, being ready to remove the outer layer during the day, but a also sweater and a warm jacket for the evening and early morning, and a scarf for the sand.
In
summer: for Algiers and the coast, and the northern plateau as well, bring summer clothing, a light sweatshirt for the evening, and possibly a scarf for the wind-borne sand and dust. For the desert, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, light and long shirts and pants of natural fibers (cotton, linen), a wide-brimmed hat, a light scarf, sunglasses (even graduated instead of contact lenses), comfortable and breathable shoes. For the mountains or for nights in a tent, you can bring a sweatshirt for the evening, and hiking boots or sandals.
It's better for women to avoid shorts and miniskirts, especially in rural and non-tourist areas.
Back to the climate of
Algeria