Oran, Tlemcen and Beyond On the Traces of the Zianids and the Corsairs
Duration
8 days
From
€760/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Family, With friends, senior, groupe
The spirit of travel
Embark on an 8-day circuit in Oranais, discovering the west of Algérie and the different influences that have shaped its history. The journey begins in Oran, nicknamed El Bahja, a city of the sea and music marked notably by Spanish, Ottoman and French heritage. You then follow the coast to Mostaganem and its fishing port, before continuing to Béni Saf. The itinerary then reaches Tlemcen, ancient Tagrart and capital of the Zianid kingdoms in the Middle Ages, where three nights are planned to discover its Islamic heritage. The return to Oran crosses the High Plateaus, with a stop in Mascara and its historic vineyards.
A journey between Mediterranean, mountains, heritage and culture, in the heart of Oranais.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
France › Oran — Welcome to Oranais
Upon arrival at Houari-Boumédiène airport, reception and assistance with formalities, then transfer to your hotel in the city centre.
Enjoy a first free stroll discovering Algiers, between the Seafront Boulevard, the Grand Post Office and Audin Square.
Free dinner in the city centre, an opportunity to taste some Algerian specialities such as chorba, dolmas, port fish and oriental pastries.
Oran the Radiant — From Santa Cruz to the Andalusian Islands
This day is dedicated to discovering Oran, between Ottoman and Spanish heritage. You start with the Fort of Santa Cruz, perched on the Djebel Murdjadjo, with a view over the bay, port and city. After visiting the basilica, you head to the Bey's Palace, then the Place d'Armes and the historic quarters of Ekmul, Sainte-Eugène and Raz d'Aïn ravine.
In the afternoon, head to the western coast and the corniche of Aïn El Türck, dotted with coves and beaches. Stop at the Andalouses, then discover El Ançor, at the foot of the mountains, before returning to Oran in the evening.
The Eastern Corniche — From Port aux Poules to Aïn Témouchent
You head east along the Mediterranean coast, between coves, cliffs and small fishing ports. Several stops punctuate the journey: Port aux Poules, Arzew, Kristel and Canastel, with their panoramic views over the sea.
You then reach Mostaganem to visit the Fort de l'Est, then discover the old town center around Bareil Square. The visit continues in the old medinas of Tigdit and Tobbana, before lunch at the port fishery, facing the boats.
In the afternoon, you head towards Béni Saf, on the west coast, characterized by its limestone cliffs bordering the Mediterranean. Enjoy a walk on the old port and admire the coastal scenery.
You then continue your journey towards Aïn Témouchent, where you spend the night.
From Aïn Témouchent to Tlemcen via the Bensekrane Road
After breakfast, you head towards Tlemcen by taking the scenic Bensekrane route. The journey crosses the Oran countryside, between villages, alfa grass and olive fields and rural markets.
At the end of the day, arrival in Tlemcen, with the opportunity to admire the sunset over the city and its minarets. Check-in at the Grand Bassin Hotel, then dinner and your first evening in Tlemcen.
Tlemcen — Tagrart, the Ancient Royal Capital
The morning begins at the Méchouar, the former royal citadel of Tlemcen, before heading to the Kissaria and its craftsmen. You then discover the Great Mosque of the Almoravides and the mausoleum of Sidi Boumediene, with its courtyard, zaouïa and Zianid minaret. Lunch in town around local specialties.
In the afternoon, you explore the ruins of the Mansourah citadel and its still-standing minaret. The day ends on the Lalla Setti plateau, which offers a panorama of Tlemcen and its valley.
Tlemcen — The Secret Surroundings I Nedroma or Beni Snous
Third day in Tlemcen, this time devoted to the immediate surroundings of the city — a less frequently visited territory of great natural beauty, which reveals another facet of the region.
Nedroma Option : 60 kilometers to the northwest, this preserved medieval town features a nearly intact medina, an 11th-century mosque and an atmosphere of remarkable authenticity. The inhabitants live there as if outside of time.
Beni Snous Option : in the foothills of the Trara massif, this Berber village perched in the Tafna wadi gorges offers mountain landscapes unexpected for the region — cork oak forests, limestone cliffs, flowing water. The Hafir forest, nearby, is one of Algérie's most beautiful cedar forests.
The choice between these two options will be made with your guide depending on the season, weather and the group's preference. In either case, return to Tlemcen in late afternoon. Free time in the evening to explore craft shops — carpets, Tlemcen embroidery, leather goods — and enjoy a final dinner in this city that rewards the visit.
Tlemcen › Mascara › Oran — The Heart of Oranais
You leave Tlemcen heading towards Oran, through the landscapes of the High Plateaus. You pass through Sidi Bel Abbès, then reach Hammam Bouhanifia, a thermal station nestled in a canyon, with the Béni Chougranes mountains as a backdrop.
Arrival in Mascara for lunch. You discover this city closely linked to the history of Emir Abdelkader, as well as its mosques, former Quranic colleges and patios houses. The visit continues in the nearby village of Ghriss.
Departure from Oran and return flight
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights France - Oran - France,
- Consular visa fees,
- Personal expenses and unscheduled visits to the program
- Cancellation insurance, repatriation and first aid,
- The costs incurred by an extended stay outside the program.
Included
- English-speaking support in Algérie throughout your stay,
- The vehicle with driver for all transfers and visits,
- 7 nights in a 3-star hotel in a double room, breakfast included,
- Assistance with visa procedures and documentation.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Algeria for a tourist stay. As entry rules may change, we recommend verifying this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Algeria, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of entry into the country and have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada must be in possession of a valid visa to enter Algeria for a tourist stay. There is no visa exemption for these nationalities.
The visa must be obtained before departure, from the Algerian embassy or consulate responsible for your country of residence. It is recommended to apply several weeks in advance, as processing times may vary.
Documents generally required for a visa application include:
a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity,
a completed and signed visa application form,
recent passport-sized photos complying with required standards,
a return flight ticket or booking,
proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
The authorized length of stay is generally 30 days, depending on the conditions mentioned on the visa issued.
Travel with children
Minors must be holders of their own valid passport covering the duration of their stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to exit the territory may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Health
No vaccination is officially required to enter Algeria for nationals of the EEA, Switzerland, and Canada. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure and to ensure that basic vaccinations are up to date (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A).
It is also advisable to take out international health insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire at the Algerian embassy or consulate of their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to have assistance-repatriation and foreign medical expenses insurance.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claims declaration procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A tourist visa is required and must be requested from the consulate (consular fees apply, processing time 2-3 weeks). An invitation letter or accommodation certificate is required. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date. Conditions can be stringent. We strongly recommend verifying the rules applicable to your nationality with the Algerian consular authorities before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 140 and 240 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and English-speaking guide. International flights (350-700 euros return) are additional. The Algerian Sahara (Tassili, Hoggar) requires a specific budget.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate stories and anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you have the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Professional Association of Tourism Solidarity) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Western Oran
Pioneer of Algeria's great deserts, based in Ghardaïa / M'zab (puis Alger à partir de 2006)
The desert is not crossed with an itinerary alone. It demands listening, respect, and a certain inner availability.
— Louiza
