Day 1: Arrival & Explore Algiers
Base: Algiers
Theme: History & Architecture
Morning:
- Arrive in Algiers (Houari Boumediene Airport).
- Check-in at hotel
- Visit the Casbah of Algiers – UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon:
- Explore Ketchaoua Mosque, Palace of the Dey, and Dar Hassan Pacha.
- Walk along Martyrs’ Memorial (Maqam Echahid) and enjoy panoramic views.
Evening:
- Dinner at Restaurant Le Tantra (Algerian & French cuisine).
- Relax at the Hamma Botanical Garden if time allows.
Day 2: Roman Ruins & Coastal Charm (Tipasa Day Trip)
Base: Algiers
Theme: Roman Heritage
Morning:
- Drive to Tipasa (1.5 hours west of Algiers).
- Explore Tipasa Roman Ruins – amphitheatre, basilica, and necropolis by the sea.
Afternoon:
- Visit Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania nearby.
- Lunch at Le Dauphin (seafood with sea view).
Evening:
- Return to Algiers.
- Optional: Light evening stroll along the Algiers waterfront (La Promenade des Sablettes).
Day 3: Travel to Ghardaïa – Gateway to the Sahara
Base: Ghardaïa
Theme: Desert Culture & M’zab Valley
Morning:
- Early flight or drive to Ghardaïa (1.5-hour flight).
- Check-in at a guesthouse
Afternoon:
- Tour of M’zab Valley – a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Explore traditional architecture in Beni Isguen, Melika, and Ghardaïa Old Town.
Evening:
- Try local Mzab dishes at Restaurant Mzab.
- Shop for handicrafts, carpets, and silver jewelry in souks.
Day 4: Sahara Vibes & Oasis Experience
Base: Ghardaïa
Theme: Desert Oasis & Culture
Morning:
- Visit the palm groves and traditional irrigation systems.
- Explore El Atteuf – the oldest M’zab town.
Afternoon:
- Optional: Half-day camel ride or desert excursion to nearby dunes.
- Relax at a local hammam (bathhouse experience).
Evening:
- Sunset view over the M’zab Valley.
- Dinner under the stars with traditional Berber music (ask local guides for private setups).
Day 5: Return to Algiers & Departure
Base: Algiers (if needed)
Theme: Leisure & Souvenirs
Morning:
- Flight back to Algiers.
- Visit Bardo National Museum (if time allows).
Afternoon:
- Last-minute shopping at Rue Didouche Mourad or Bab El Oued Market.
Evening:
- Transfer to Algiers airport for departure.
Transportation Tips:
- Domestic flights: Use Air Algérie for Algiers ↔ Ghardaïa.
- Taxis & local guides are highly recommended.
- Car rentals available in Algiers, but driving in cities is hectic.
Hotel Suggestions:
- Algiers: Sofitel Hamma Garden, Hotel El Djazair
- Ghardaïa: El Djanoub Hotel, traditional guesthouses in M’zab Valley
Food to Try:
- Couscous with lamb and vegetables
- Chorba (soup)
- Mahjouba (stuffed flatbread)
- Makroud (semolina dessert with dates)
