Algeria

You will need your passport to check in to any hotels in Algeria. You do not have to carry your passport at all times, but take it with you on longer journeys. You must have your passport if you travel inside Algeria by air. Keep copies of your passport’s photo page and your visa or entry stamp in a separate place. 

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, next starting in February 2027. During this time, do not:  

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car  
• play loud music or dance  
• swear in public  

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.  

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens  
• be aware that most restaurants do not serve alcohol  
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time  
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening 
• be patient and show tolerance 

It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place. 

There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for trafficking, smuggling, using and possessing illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty depending upon the severity of the offence.

Mobile phone coverage can be patchy or unavailable in more remote areas, particularly in the south of Algeria. Some online maps may not be accurate in remote areas. 

It is illegal to bring drones, binoculars, telescopes and certain types of photography equipment into Algeria without authorisation. If you have any doubt about items you plan to bring with you, contact the Algerian customs to check prior to your travel.

Sexual acts between people of the same sex are illegal in Algeria. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

Algerian family law is different from UK law. Mothers cannot renew their children’s passports without written consent from the father. Fathers can renew their children’s passports without needing the mother’s consent.

Algerian nationals, including dual-nationals, who enter the country on an Algerian passport, must leave the country on an Algerian passport, so if you are travelling with a child who has British-Algerian dual nationality, and you are unable to access a valid Algerian passport for them, you will not be able to bring the child out of Algeria without the father’s written consent or permission from the Algerian courts.

If you are a British male of Algerian origin, you may be liable for national service even if you have been living outside of Algeria. You can contact the Algerian consulate near you to check your status prior to travelling to Algeria.

Wildfires take place most summers, causing significant damage and risk to life where they take place. Fires could flare up without warning, especially during periods of extreme weather. The General Directorate of Civil Contingency has released advice on how to help prevent wildfires and what to do if a wildfire breaks out near you. Always follow local advice and stay away from high risk areas.

Parts of Algeria are prone to severe and dangerous flood damage. There have been instances where people have been killed, houses submerged and cars swept away.  

Earthquakes are a risk in the northern part of Algeria, including Algiers.  

In May 2003, a severe earthquake struck the Algiers area. There were over 2,200 dead and more than 10,000 injured. Smaller earthquakes happen regularly. In July 2014, an earthquake killed 6 people and injured 420. 

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.