Houari Boumediene Airport

Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) is Algeria's primary international airport, located approximately 17 km east of central Algiers. Named after former Algerian president Houari Boumediene, it is the busiest airport in the country and one of the largest in North Africa, handling nearly 10 million passengers annually. ALG serves as the main hub for Air Algerie, the national carrier, which operates over half of all flights from the airport.

The airport has three passenger terminals:

• Terminal 1: Domestic flights and Hajj/Omra services. Hall 1 handles Middle East and Gulf airlines, Hall 2 handles domestic Air Algerie flights
• Terminal 2: Charter flights and Hajj pilgrimage services
• Terminal 4 (International Terminal): Opened in April 2019, this modern terminal handles all international flights. With 73 hectares of space, it accommodates 10 million passengers annually and can handle Airbus A380 aircraft

Terminals 1 and 2 are located on the eastern side of the airport, close together with a shared train station. Terminal 4 is the newer western terminal, approximately 2 km away and connected to the Hyatt Regency Algiers Airport hotel via a covered walkway.

ALG is the gateway to Algiers and Algeria, offering connections to over 65 destinations across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Canada. Air Algerie alone accounts for approximately 566 weekly departures.

ALG is located approximately 17 km east of downtown Algiers (Place des Martyrs, city center). Travel times vary with traffic:

• Downtown Algiers (Place des Martyrs): 25-45 minutes
• Bab El Oued: 30-50 minutes
• Hydra/El Biar: 20-35 minutes
• Oran (by road): 4-5 hours

Traffic note: Algiers traffic can be heavy, especially during morning (7-9am) and evening (4-7pm) rush hours. Allow extra time during peak periods.

Uber and Lyft are not available in Algeria. Taxis are the primary option for door-to-door transport.

Taxi Service

White taxis are available outside all terminals at designated taxi stands. Important: Most taxis in Algiers do not use meters. Always agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Typical Taxi Fares

Destination	Fare (approximate)	Duration
Downtown Algiers	DZD 1,500-2,500 (~$11-19 USD)	25-45 min
Hydra/El Biar	DZD 1,200-2,000 (~$9-15 USD)	20-35 min
Bab El Oued	DZD 1,500-2,500 (~$11-19 USD)	30-50 min

Tips

• Negotiate the fare before entering the taxi
• Have your destination address written in French or Arabic
• Ask your hotel to arrange airport pickup for more reliable service
• Night rates may be higher
• Keep small bills for exact payment

Private Transfers

Hotels and tour operators can arrange private airport transfers. Expect to pay DZD 3,000-5,000 (~$23-38 USD) for a sedan to central Algiers. This offers fixed pricing and air-conditioned vehicles.

SNTF Train

A commuter rail service connects the airport to downtown Algiers via the SNTF (national railway).

Station location: Underground, between Terminals 1 and 2. From Terminal 4, allow 15 minutes walking time to reach the station.

Detail	Information
Destination	Agha Station (central Algiers)
Journey time	20-25 minutes
Fare	DZD 80 (~$0.60 USD)
Frequency	Approximately hourly (14 trains/day on weekdays)
Operating hours	6am-10pm approximately

Important tips:

• Check the schedule board at the station rather than relying on online timetables
• Keep your ticket - it's checked when exiting at Agha Station
• Service can be irregular; have a backup plan

Future Metro Connection

The Algiers Metro extension to the airport is under construction, with expected completion in late 2026. This will provide faster, more frequent service to the city center.

Practical Recommendation

Given unreliable train schedules, taxis remain the most practical option for most travelers, especially those with luggage or tight schedules. The cost is reasonable by international standards.

Parking is available at all terminals:

Terminal	Capacity	Notes
Terminal 1	5,000 spaces	Domestic terminal
Terminal 2	900 spaces	Charter terminal
Terminal 4	4,500 spaces	International terminal

Rates (approximate)

Duration	Rate
First hour	DZD 100 (~$0.75 USD)
Per day	DZD 800-1,200 (~$6-9 USD)

Payment is typically cash only. For extended trips, consider having someone drop you off or using a private transfer service.

Dining options at ALG are limited compared to major international hubs.

Terminal 4 (Best Selection)

• Café restaurants: Coffee, sandwiches, light meals
• Fast food: Various options available
• Duty-free food section: Snacks and drinks
• Restaurant: Algerian and international cuisine

Terminals 1 & 2

• Cafeteria-style restaurants: Basic meals
• Coffee shops: Light refreshments
• Snack bars: Quick options

Food quality is basic and prices are marked up from city restaurants. Budget DZD 1,000-2,500 (~$7-19 USD) for a meal. For better dining, eat in Algiers before arriving at the airport.

WiFi at ALG is paid, not free.

• Network: "ALG Airport WiFi" or similar
• Access: Purchase vouchers from convenience shops or coffee shops in the terminal, or pay via credit card after connecting
• Quality: Variable; adequate for basic browsing

For reliable connectivity, purchase a local SIM card (see below) or use your international mobile data plan.

SIM cards are readily available at the airport. Algeria has three mobile operators:

• Djezzy: Largest network
• Mobilis: Most extensive 4G/LTE coverage
• Ooredoo: Good coverage, competitive plans

Where to Buy

SIM card shops are located in the arrivals hall after customs. Look for branded kiosks on your left as you exit. Shops are typically open 7am-8pm daily.

Requirements: Bring your passport (a copy will be taken for registration).

Typical Plans

Carrier	Plan	Price	Includes
Djezzy	Tourist Pack	DZD 1,500 (~$11 USD)	50GB data, 30 days
Mobilis	Prepaid	DZD 1,500 (~$11 USD)	50GB data, local calls, 30 days
Ooredoo	LA Switch	DZD 1,500 (~$11 USD)	50GB data, 10 international minutes, 30 days
Djezzy	Large Pack	DZD 2,000 (~$15 USD)	80GB data, 15 international minutes
Ooredoo	Premium	DZD 2,500 (~$19 USD)	120GB data, 30 international minutes

Note: Airport prices are the same as city shops - no tourist premium. Cash only at airport shops; ATMs are available in the arrivals hall.

Coverage

4G/LTE is available in major cities including Algiers, Oran, and Constantine. Coverage may be limited in remote or desert areas. 5G is not yet available in Algeria.

ATMs are located throughout all terminals:

• Arrivals halls: Multiple ATMs from major Algerian banks (CPA, BNA, BEA, Societe Generale Algeria)
• Departure areas: ATMs near gates
• Terminal 4: Modern facilities with multiple ATM options

Currency: Algerian Dinar (DZD)

Exchange rate: Approximately 1 USD = 130 DZD (check current rates)

Currency Exchange

Exchange bureaus are located in arrivals and departures areas:

• Expect unfavorable rates (10-20% markup)
• ATMs generally offer better rates (your bank's fees apply)
• Withdraw smaller amounts at the airport; get better rates in the city

Practical Tips

• Algeria is largely a cash-based economy
• Credit cards are accepted at hotels, some restaurants, and larger shops
• Carry cash for taxis, small shops, and restaurants
• Foreign currency (USD, EUR) is not widely accepted

Duty-free shopping is available in Terminal 4 for international departures.

Duty-Free (Terminal 4)

• Perfumes and cosmetics
• Alcohol and tobacco: Good savings for destinations where these are expensive
• Electronics
• Algerian handicrafts: Carpets, leather goods, pottery
• Local products: Dates, olive oil, spices

Local Specialties

• Saharan dates: Deglet Nour dates are famous and make excellent gifts
• Berber crafts: Jewelry, textiles, pottery
• Leather goods: Traditional Algerian leatherwork
• Carpets: Handwoven rugs from various regions
• Olive oil: High-quality Algerian olive oil

Allow 20-30 minutes for shopping before your flight.

Lounge options at ALG are limited, primarily operated by Air Algerie.

Air Algerie Lounges

Salon Premiere Classe (Terminal 4)

• Location: Airside, Hall 2 (International departures)
• Access: Air Algerie Business Class, partner airlines, pay at door (DZD 2,700 / ~$21 USD)
• Amenities: Seating, refreshments, WiFi
• No showers available

Salon Premiere Classe (Terminal 1)

• Location: Airside, Hall 2, near Gate 21
• Access: Pay at door (DZD 2,700 / ~$21 USD for international, DZD 1,350 / ~$10 USD for domestic)
• Amenities: Basic seating, refreshments

Priority Pass

No Priority Pass lounges are currently available at ALG.

Access Options

• Air Algerie Business Class ticket
• Pay at the door (DZD 1,350-2,700 depending on terminal)
• Air Algerie VIP subscription or 10-pass card

Lounge quality is modest by international standards. Expect basic food, drinks, seating, and WiFi.

At the Airport

Hyatt Regency Algiers Airport is connected directly to Terminal 4 via a covered, elevated walkway - ideal for early departures or long layovers.

• Rating: 5-star
• Rooms: 320 modern rooms with Italian design
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, restaurants, free WiFi, airport shuttle
• Rates: From DZD 25,000/night (~$190 USD)
• Contact: +213 23 55 12 34

Near the Airport

Limited hotel options exist near the airport outside of the Hyatt. Most travelers stay in central Algiers:

In Algiers (20-40 minutes from airport):

• Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden: 5-star, near botanical garden. From DZD 20,000/night (~$150 USD)
• El Aurassi Hotel: Iconic 5-star hotel with bay views. From DZD 15,000/night (~$115 USD)
• Sheraton Club des Pins: Beach resort, west of city. From DZD 22,000/night (~$170 USD)
• Ibis Algiers: Budget-friendly option. From DZD 8,000/night (~$60 USD)

For overnight layovers, the Hyatt Regency at Terminal 4 is the most convenient option.

Algiers and Algeria offer extraordinary history, culture, and natural beauty. The capital is a gateway to ancient Berber heritage, French colonial architecture, and the vast Sahara Desert.

The Casbah of Algiers (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

The Casbah is a must-visit - a historic medina dating back centuries, featuring labyrinthine alleyways, Ottoman-era architecture, and traditional houses clinging to a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean.

• Distance from airport: 20 km (~30-45 minutes by taxi)
• Key sites: Ketchaoua Mosque (17th century), traditional houses, panoramic views
• Tips:
  • Hire a local guide (essential for navigating the maze-like streets)
  • Wear comfortable shoes - lots of stairs and uneven surfaces
  • Best visited in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November)

Must-See Attractions

Palace of the Rais (Bastion 23) - 15 km from airport

• 18th-century Ottoman palace complex on the waterfront
• Now houses the Center for Arts and Culture
• Beautiful courtyards and Mediterranean views

Notre Dame d'Afrique - 20 km from airport

• Roman Catholic basilica perched on a hill
• Stunning views of Algiers and the bay
• Notable for its message of interfaith harmony

National Museum of Fine Arts - 18 km from airport

• One of the largest art museums in Africa
• French, Algerian, and international collections

Jardin d'Essai du Hamma - 12 km from airport

• Historic botanical garden (founded 1832)
• One of the most important in the Mediterranean
• Peaceful escape from the city

Algerian Food Essentials

• Couscous: The national dish, often served with lamb or vegetables
• Chorba: Traditional soup, especially during Ramadan
• Mechoui: Slow-roasted lamb
• Makroud: Date-filled semolina pastries
• Mint tea: Ubiquitous and always offered to guests
• Fresh juice: Excellent citrus and date juices

For Long Layovers (6+ hours)

With 6+ hours, a quick Casbah visit is achievable:

1. Exit airport, take taxi to Casbah (~40 minutes)
2. Explore the Casbah with a guide (2-3 hours)
3. Optional: lunch with Mediterranean views
4. Return to airport (~40 minutes)

Allow 2-3 hours buffer for traffic and security.

Practical Tips

• Currency: Algerian Dinar (DZD). Cash is essential.
• Language: Arabic and French are official. French is widely spoken in Algiers.
• Dress code: Modest dress recommended, especially in the Casbah. Women should cover shoulders and knees.
• Alcohol: Available in licensed hotels and some restaurants, but Algeria is a Muslim country.
• Photography: Ask before photographing people or religious sites.
• Bargaining: Expected in markets and souks.
• Safety: Tourist areas are generally safe. Use common sense and registered guides.
• Weather: Mediterranean climate. Hot summers (30-35C), mild winters (10-15C). Spring and fall are ideal.
• Friday: Many businesses close for prayers. Museums typically remain open.
• Visa: Required for most nationalities. Apply in advance at an Algerian embassy.

Day Trips from Algiers

If you have a full day:

• Tipaza: Roman ruins on the coast (70 km west, 1-1.5 hours)
• Djemila: Spectacular Roman ruins, UNESCO site (300 km east, 3-4 hours)
• Cherchell: Ancient Caesarea, archaeological museum (90 km west, 1.5-2 hours)

Algiers itself offers enough to fill several days - the Casbah, museums, waterfront, and local cuisine make it a rewarding destination. The city's blend of Mediterranean beauty, French colonial heritage, and North African culture creates a unique atmosphere.