Travel Advisory
Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.
Exercise increased caution in Algeria due to terrorism and kidnapping.
Do not travel to:
- Areas near the eastern and southern borders due to terrorism and kidnapping.
- Areas in the Sahara Desert due to terrorism and kidnapping.
Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Algeria. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and have recently targeted the Algerian security forces. Most attacks take place in rural areas, but attacks are possible in urban areas despite a heavy and active police presence.
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Algiers province due to Algerian government restrictions on travel by U.S. government employees.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Algeria.
If you decide to travel to Algeria:
- Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel and see the U.S. Embassy's web page for country-specific COVID-19 information.
- Inform local police when visiting locations outside of major cities.
- Travel by air if possible; remain on major highways if you must travel by road.
- Travel with reputable travel agents who know the area.
- Avoid staying overnight outside of the main cities and tourist locations.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Algeria.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Eastern and southern borders — Level 4: Do Not Travel
Avoid travel to rural areas within 50 km (31 miles) of the border with Tunisia and within 250 km (155 miles) of the borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania due to terrorist and criminal activities, including kidnapping.
Visit our website for High-Risk Travelers.
Overland travel to the Sahara Desert — Level 4: Do Not Travel
Do not travel overland in the Sahara Desert due to terrorist and criminal activity, including kidnapping.
Visit our website for High-Risk Travelers.
Algeria is a country located in North Africa, on the Mediterranean coast. It is known for its rich history and culture, with a number of interesting attractions to explore, including ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and stunning landscapes.
Currently, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Algeria due to COVID-19 and crime. The advisory advises travelers to reconsider their need to travel to Algeria and to carefully consider the risks of doing so.
There are also a number of specific areas in Algeria where the Department of State has advised against all travel, including the Western Sahara, the border with Libya, the border with Mali, and the border with Niger. These areas are considered to be especially dangerous due to ongoing conflict, civil unrest, and the risk of terrorism.
Before traveling to Algeria or any other destination, it is important to check the latest travel advisories and warnings from the U.S. Department of State and to follow the guidelines and recommendations of local authorities and your embassy or consulate. It is also important to exercise caution and take basic safety precautions when traveling, such as staying aware of your surroundings, protecting your personal belongings, and following local laws and customs.