Book cheap flights to Algiers

Algiers is situated along the coast of Algeria, which means it is blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate. Weather is generally pleasant all year round. The summer months are warm and dry with temperatures sneaking into the low 30 degrees Celsius region; while the winter months are mild with gentle bouts of rainfall. The warm season lasts from June to September, while the cold season settles over the city in November and wanes toward the end of March. Each season comes with its own pros and cons (i.e . travelling during winter means lower rates), but the summer months are best for exploring the city and getting to experience the landscapes in all its glory. In terms of events and festivals, the city hosts the European Cultural Festival in May, an event that encompasses music, art, photography, theatre, dance and film.

South African passport holders do require a visa when travelling to Algiers, or anywhere else in Algeria. Before leaving on your trip, ensure your passport has three blank pages for entry stamps and has a validity of at least six months. A visa takes about 10 days to process.

Islam is the predominant religion in Algiers, so it is highly recommended that you familiarise yourself with the local customs and traditions before embarking on your trip.

The Algerian Embassy is situated in Pretoria. 950 Arcadia St, Arcadia, 0083. Phone: ( 27) 012 342 5074/5

Travellers planning a trip to Algiers should do some research regarding the social and political status of the city. With research and planning you can still embark on a holiday to this fascinating coastal city and enjoy everything it has to offer.

Be aware of your surroundings and try to avoid crowded areas. You should maintain a high level of vigilance at all times and avoid all travel to secluded or rural parts of Algiers and Algeria in general. Stick to safe areas, well-known hotels, and avoid venturing out alone, and at night. Women should familiarise themselves with local customs. Avoid carrying around large sums of money and valuable items. Carry a photocopy of your passport and other important documents and leave the originals in a safe place.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from a yellow fever endemic area. Vaccinations for hepatitis A & B, typhoid and rabies are recommended. Although the risk of malaria is low in Algeria, taking certain precautions to prevent mosquito bites is recommended. Vaccinations for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox) and polio are also recommended.

Accommodation in Algiers can be quite limited.

Hotels and resorts along the coast are of a high standard and offer all the facilities you need for a comfortable and luxurious stay. These high end establishments also offer prime locations for witnessing some stellar sunsets across the bay of Algiers.

For more affordable accommodation, a number of mid-range and budget hotels can be found around the city, but these are often few and far between, so booking early is highly recommended.

When travelling around Algiers the best option is using marked taxis, preferably those registered with the hotel. These are plentiful and efficient at getting you around comfortably and safely. Car rental and using public transportation is not recommended.