From Oran to the Red Oases of the Southwest

Begin your exploration of Algiers with a walk through the Botanical Garden, a peaceful green retreat in the city. Continue to the Museum of Fine Arts to discover its collections and views towards the sea, then visit Dar Abd el Latif, a fine example of traditional architecture.

In the afternoon, take the cable car up to the Martyrs’ Memorial and explore the history of independence at the museum. Continue to the Bardo Museum and its cultural collections. End the day with Algiers-style rechta: fine noodles served with a fragrant sauce of chicken, chickpeas and turnips.

Start the day in the UNESCO-listed Casbah of Algiers. Its maze of narrow lanes and traditional houses reveals the history and everyday life of one of the city’s most distinctive quarters.

Continue through central Algiers to Emir Abdelkader Square and the impressive Grande Poste, with its Moorish-inspired architecture. The walk also takes in the former Saint Charles church, part of the city’s varied religious heritage.

Round off the day in Bologhine at the Basilica of Notre-Dame d’Afrique. From this elevated setting, enjoy panoramic views over Algiers as the sun goes down.

Leave Algiers in the morning for Tipaza, around an hour away by road. The route brings together coastal and mountain scenery. Begin at the archaeological museum, where Roman remains introduce the civilisations that shaped this ancient city.

Continue to the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, also known as the Tomb of the Christian Woman. Set on a hill above the Mediterranean, this imposing monument combines a striking location with a fascinating history.

Stop for lunch at Le Dauphin restaurant to enjoy grilled fish and views over the sea. Local flavours and the maritime setting offer a relaxed pause in the day.

In the afternoon, explore historic Cherchell, with its old streets and monuments. Return to your hotel for dinner and a restful evening.

Leave early for Naama as the green landscapes of northern Algeria give way to the Sahara. Continue towards Ain Ouarka, in the Ksour Mountains of the western Saharan Atlas, a region with distinctive geological and natural landscapes.

Discover the region’s wildlife, vegetation and thermal springs. An accessible 10-kilometre walk leads towards Ain Ouarka lake, with a stop at the historic ksar of Boussemghoun.

End the day with a traditional dinner featuring regional flavours after your journey between the mountains and the desert.

Set off early for Taghit, an oasis beside an extensive palm grove and the dunes of the Grand Erg Occidental. Walk among the palms and discover the remains of Ksar Berbi.

After a pause for traditional tea, travel by 4x4 to the rock engravings around Taghit. Discover ancient images carved into the rocky landscape, offering glimpses of the Sahara’s long human history.

Explore Taghit’s market, browsing local crafts and regional produce and meeting residents. Then walk through the lanes of the old town and discover its historic buildings.

Enjoy a peaceful kayak outing on the waters of the Taghit oasis. Later, travel to Beni Abbes for the next stage of your Saharan journey.

Timimoun, the main oasis of the Gourara, brings together red-earth houses, historic ksour, golden dunes and palm groves. Begin with a walk on the dunes around Aghlad, near Timimoun, among villages and fortresses built in the colours of the desert.

Watch the sun set over the dunes while your local guide prepares tea over the fire. End the day with a traditional dinner and music performed by a local group.

After your flight back to Algiers, transfer to the hotel to freshen up. Then visit Ketchaoua Mosque, an architectural landmark at the foot of the Casbah.

Explore the lively market in the lower Casbah, with its colourful food stalls and daily bustle. Continue through central Algiers before visiting the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.

On your final day, transfer to the airport for your journey home. Depending on flight times, there may be time for the included lunch and a last visit in Algiers: either the Great Mosque or some shopping for souvenirs.

Whether you choose the mosque or a final stroll through the shops, make the most of your last moments in Algeria before your return flight.