When thinking of a nice Mediterranean vacation, Algeria is not most travelers’ first choice.
The media depicts Algeria as a terrorist haven with attacks and kidnappings around every corner.
While these events do occur regularly and kidnapping is a scenario most visitors must consider and take proper precautions to avoid, the country is a gem of history and culture.
Annaba is one of the larger cities in the country and is located on the Mediterranean coastline, approximately 60 miles from the Tunisian border.
The city’s architecture reflects its French colonial past, with many residents still speaking French.
In addition to the colonial history, the city has extensive remnants of Roman structures with beautifully restored mosaics and other objects.
Annaba is the chief exporter of phosphates and iron ore from the Tebessa deposits in the southeast and is surrounded by mines, forests, and fertile farms, all filtering products through the city to the port.
If you’re interested in experiencing authentic Algerian culture while taking the proper safety precautions, keep reading to learn more!
Warnings & Dangers in Annaba
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Algeria is generally a high travel risk with the exception of Annaba. While the city has plenty of hazards and dangers, and you must take extra precautions, it’s safer than most other places in the country. The biggest threats are terrorist activities and drinking tap water. If you see something suspicious then it’s important to report it to the authorities immediately.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Annaba mass transit is considered reliable and safe but with a few precautions. Taxis and city buses are the most common transportation modes. Buses become crowded during peak periods but are generally safe. While taxis are also reliable and safe, some level of negotiation is required since meters may not be used. At night, it’s essential to be vigilant and cautious, especially when traveling alone.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse-snatching occur in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to take proper measures like keeping your wallet in your front pocket, using a money belt, or using a cut-proof handbag. It’s also crucial to remain aware of your environment. Never flaunt money or valuables in public, and always keep an eye on your belongings. The good news is these crimes are not rampant in Annaba.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Coastal storms and flooding occur during the wetter months throughout the year. Also, Northern Algeria has seismic activity that cannot be predicted, but neither are reasons to not visit the country.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Violent crimes in Annaba have been on the rise lately, especially due to global inflation. However, you can easily visit the city and not have any issues as long as you follow general safety guidelines and use common sense. For instance, avoid deserted areas and dark streets at night, when criminals are most active.
TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
Sadly, terrorism is the sore spot of the country, including in Annaba. Kidnappings and other terrorist attacks are common due to the many cells that operate in major cities. Al Qaeda, Al-Murabitun, and Daesh-affiliated groups are the most common threats in the country. These groups are highly active and don’t just attack government buildings and personnel.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
The scam risk in Annaba is lower than in many other cities in the country with a medium rating. The most popular scam is a con artist posing as a tour guide to take your money without providing the service. Also, be aware of those attempting to distract you as a partner could be right behind you picking your pockets. Furthermore, avoid ATMs at night and be aware of who is around you when visiting an ATM during the day.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Annaba has safe and less safe areas, like every city. Wandering around alone as a female traveler is safe during the day, but at night, locals advise visitors to exercise caution and remain in populated well-lit areas. Also, it’s important to avoid venturing into unfamiliar neighborhoods. Also, females will be subjected to some street harassment, mostly regarding unwelcome comments, advances, or attention. While this activity is usually non-threatening, it can be persistent, so it’s important to avoid being out at night alone, dress modestly, and be aware of your surroundings.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Many neighborhoods in Annaba have heavily chlorinated and unpalatable drinking water. Therefore, visitors who are not acclimated to the city’s environment are advised to drink bottled water since it has more consistent sanitization standards, resulting in less risk of an upset stomach.
Safest Places to Visit in Annaba
One of the nicest and safest areas of Annaba is Sidi Achour, a modern residential district in the northern section of the city.
The area is best known for luxury villas, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and lush greenery for the elite.
Also, the area boasts fantastic transportation options with taxis and several bus lines.
Another excellent neighborhood is El Bouni, a large suburb east of the city center.
This area is more affordable than Sidi Achour, has well-connected transportation options, and bustling marketplaces.
The downtown area is also fairly safe and known for its French colonial architecture, cultural institutions, art galleries, and museums.
Places to Avoid in Annaba
Annaba’s Casbah is a historically rich district that has gained global attention in recent years for its vibrant atmosphere and ancient architecture.
Unfortunately, it has also gained a reputation for being unsafe, especially at night.
While not everyone has a negative experience in this area, it’s best not to wander unless with a licensed tour guide who knows the locals and how to keep everyone safe.
Other areas to avoid include Sidi Salem, Laurier Rose, and Champ de Mars.
These areas may be acceptable to visit during the day but do not go there at night.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Annaba
- Avoid Traveling Near the Tunisian Border. Local Western governments are advising travelers to not travel within 60 miles of the Tunisian border due to a high threat of kidnapping and terrorist activity. Since Annaba is in the northwestern part of the state, not far from the Tunisian border, it’s best to stay in the city and not venture to remote areas to this east. If you are planning to visit Tunisia while in Algeria, book a flight do not drive to and attempt to cross the border.
- Be Extra Cautious at Night. Many Western governments advise not to go out in Annaba at night as this is when criminals are the most active, especially related to violent crimes. Therefore, if you must go out at night, prebook your transportation to and from the destination, and don’t wander around, especially alone. Also, always be aware of your environment and who is around you since criminals are likely watching and waiting for the perfect time to cause a problem.
- Don’t Comment on Political Events on Social Media. When political or social tensions are high, never post about political events on social media. Travelers have been arrested for making comments against the government or specific political situations, so this can easily be avoided by taking photos and commenting on how beautiful the country and Annaba are.
- Don’t Wander into Desolate Areas. While this may be common sense, it’s important to remain clear of desolate areas and dimly lit streets in Annaba. Opportunistic criminals will take advantage of abandoned areas to pickpocket, rob, or mug you. Tourists wandering into a secluded area, especially at night, is a common situation resulting in kidnapping or worse.
- Dress According to Local Standards. The local behavior and dress standards in Annaba are highly conservative. This means women are required to wear a headscarf and hide their shoulders. Also, pants or long dresses are the norm, especially when visiting religious sites. Men mostly wear jeans so it’s rare to see a local walking around in shorts. Additionally, adults must avoid physical contact in public places, even if they’re married.
- Follow the Local Authorities Advice Regarding Weather. Flooding and earthquakes occur, particularly in Mediterranean Sea-facing sections of the country, including Annaba. If severe weather or a natural disaster occurs while visiting, it’s crucial to follow the advice provided by local authorities. Other important actions include keeping in regular contact with your family, monitoring the local news and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System, and securing your passport in a waterproof place.
- Get the Proper Vaccinations Before Visiting. Polio, tuberculosis, rabies, hepatitis, typhoid, West Nile virus, leishmaniasis, and chikungunya are health-related issues that can impact you while visiting, either through insert bites or drinking and bathing water. Getting the proper vaccinations as recommended by your home country’s disease control department is crucial to your safety. It’s also important to bring and apply bug spray and remember that while the medical facilities in Annaba are acceptable, this is not the case in remote areas.
- Look for Bandits on Deserted Beaches. Although it’s highly recommended that you avoid deserted beaches, if you must travel to one of these locations, beware of bandits, even during the daytime. When moving through the area, it’s critical to keep the windows up and doors locked, as carjackings are common. Never leave the safety of your automobile to explore the beach, as this gives criminals the opportunity for a robbery, mugging, or kidnapping since no witnesses are around.
- Monitor the Local News for Terrorist Threats. Terrorism is a major problem across Algeria. While Annaba is relatively safe, a terrorist attack can occur at any time, especially if you venture into remote areas. Therefore, it’s essential to continuously monitor the news and listen to local authorities about these potential threats. This simple tip could save your life.
- Notify Your Family of Planned Travel Locations. Kidnapping is a major concern in Algeria, so it’s important to notify your loved ones of your travel plans and locations each day. To reduce the risk of kidnapping while visiting, don’t give personal details to strangers, only use public ATMs during the daytime, and never discuss business affairs or money in public. Other important tips include being aware of your surroundings and ensuring your accommodation has proper security measures. Most internationally branded hotels have extra security for guests.
So... How Safe Is Annaba Really?
Among all the major Algerian cities, Annaba is one of the safest.
However, you must still exercise high caution, and it’s not advisable to wander at night.
There are plenty of dangers that lurk around every corner, ranging from terrorist attacks to kidnappings, muggings, and pickpocketing.
Most governments do not recommend visitors travel to Algeria, but if you must, it’s important to follow basic safety guidelines and use common sense.
Keeping your family in the loop of where you are and all the locations you are headed to for the day is critical in case an issue arises.
Luckily, with taxis being relatively safe, you can hire a car to take you to various places for inexpensive prices, which significantly improves your safety when traveling around Annaba and the country.
However, remote areas are dangerous regardless of if you are with a local, so it’s best to remain in cities.
How Does Annaba Compare?
City | Safety Index |
---|---|
Annaba | 44 |
Algiers | 50 |
Oran | 31 |
Ghardaia | 48 |
Tamanrasset | 30 |
Atakor | 52 |
Phnom Penh (Cambodia) | 61 |
Niagara Falls (Canada) | 87 |
Calgary (Canada) | 82 |
Buenos Aires (Argentina) | 60 |
Vancouver (Canada) | 82 |
Cordoba (Argentina) | 61 |
Useful Information
Visas
Only a few countries are permitted to enter Algeria without holding a visa. The government allows UK citizens to purchase a visa at the arrival gate, but others must check with the local State Department to determine the status. All visitors must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months following their entrance date into the country.
Currency
Like in many developing nations, cash is king in Algeria with the official currency being the Algerian Dinar. Larger cities like Annaba have banks and ATMs scattered around for easy cash access. Also, visitors can use major credit cards at many hotels and shops, but this is not the case when traveling to rural areas.
Weather
Since Annaba sits on the Mediterranean, the temperatures are milder and more consistent compared to the country’s interior. Although summers are still hot, there’s a nice ocean breeze that traverses through the city. The city has a much more comfortable climate during the winter.
Airports
Rabah Bitat International Airport is the closest airport to Annaba, and it is located only around nine miles from the city center. This airport offers international and domestic flights.
Travel Insurance
Although travel insurance is recommended for all tourists visiting international destinations, it’s especially important in Algeria since there are many potential dangers and hazards. Travel insurance financially protects visitors for lost or delayed luggage, flight cancelations or delays, and, most importantly, medical insurance, including airlifting to hospitals from remote areas.
Annaba Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High °C | 17 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 24 | 28 | 31 | 31 | 29 | 26 | 21 | 18 |
Low °C | 6 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 20 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 8 |
High °F | 63 | 63 | 66 | 70 | 75 | 82 | 88 | 88 | 84 | 79 | 70 | 64 |
Low °F | 43 | 43 | 46 | 48 | 55 | 61 | 66 | 68 | 64 | 59 | 50 | 46 |
Algeria - Safety by City
City | Safety Index |
---|---|
Algiers | 50 |
Annaba | 44 |
Atakor | 52 |
Ghardaia | 48 |
Oran | 31 |
Tamanrasset | 30 |