There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.
Exercise increased caution in Algeria due to terrorism and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do Not Travel to:
- Areas near the eastern, and southern borders, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, Illiz, In Guezzsam, In Salah, Tamanrasset, the mountainous areas of the Wilaya of Tebessa, and Tindouf due to terrorism and kidnapping.
- Remote areas in the Sahara Desert without the support of an organized tour group due to terrorism and kidnapping.
Advisory summary
Terrorism remains a possible threat in Algeria. Terrorist attacks have historically targeted Algerian security forces. Attacks are possible in both rural and urban areas despite a heavy and active police presence. Kidnapping for ransom events in Algeria’s deep south have targeted foreigners in recent years.
The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Algiers province. This is due to the size of the country, as well as the Algerian government’s travel restrictions on U.S. government employees.
Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Algeria. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Kidnapping and hostage taking
Foreigners may be targeted for kidnapping or hostage taking by criminals and terrorists in Algeria. This is most likely to occur in the southern desert regions near the borders with Mali, Niger, or Libya and areas near migration networks.
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Eastern and southern borders and other specific areas
Avoid travel to rural areas within 37 miles (60 kilometers) of the Algerian borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania This is due to the threat of terrorist and criminal activities, including criminal kidnapping and terrorist hostage taking.
In addition to these borders, do not travel to the following places for any reason:
- Bordj Badji Mokhtar
- Illizi
- In Guezzsam
- In Salah
- Tamanrasset
- Tebessa Wilaya mountainous areas
- Tindouf
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Overland travel to the Sahara Desert
Do not travel large distances overland in the Sahara Desert outside of an organized tour group, or cross Algeria’s borders with Mali, Niger, or Libya due to terrorist and criminal activity, including criminal kidnapping and terrorist hostage taking. Consular staff and first responders likely will not be able to reach you in the event of an emergency. Cellular coverage is unreliable outside of major cities.
If you decide to travel to Algeria:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Algeria, review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime, information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Stay alert in tourist spots, particularly at night.
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- You are subject to local laws when traveling overseas. The U.S. government cannot guarantee your release when you are detained or arrested abroad.
- Visit our page regarding Arrest and Detention Abroad for more information on what happens when you or a loved one are arrested overseas.
- Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Algeria.
- Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
- We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
