Imagine arriving somewhere that instantly surprises you—clean streets, dramatic mountain views, and a sense of welcome so warm it makes you feel at home before you’ve even checked in. That’s exactly the mood from Waleed Maoed’s first trip to Algeria, beginning in Algiers, the capital city, and quickly moving into the historic heart of the Casbah.
In this travel-first look at Algeria, you’ll follow the practical details as well as the atmosphere: the reality of the visa process, what to expect on arrival, how SIM cards work, and why money matters. Then, as the day unfolds, the video shifts naturally from logistics to discovery—Arabic-and-French everyday life, striking architecture, and key sites with layered histories.
Arriving in Algeria: a smooth airport start
Waleed describes landing in Algiers as “honestly really chill,” with immigration not being a major issue. The airport itself stands out, too—he notes it as one of the nicer airports he’s seen in Africa, with big, impressive spaces and great views as the plane approaches.
From there, the first order of business is simple but essential: sorting out a phone connection.
Getting a SIM card in Algiers (and what to expect)
On arrival, Waleed heads to the mobile company Oredo, where he reports getting 70 GB for $8. His trip also highlights that the experience of communicating may feel different at first. According to the video, French and Arabic are widely used, and English isn’t as common—so being ready for multilingual conversations helps.
Algerian visas: challenging, but it’s worth it
One of the biggest hurdles mentioned is the visa process. Waleed explains that it felt “honestly a bit tough to get,” and that he tried multiple Algerian embassies before finally receiving the visa after a connection helped his application through the embassy back home.
He ultimately travels with a 90-day visa, giving him the time to explore beyond Algiers—an important detail for anyone planning a first trip to Algeria’s diverse regions.
Money in Algeria: cash, and be mindful of exchange rates
Waleed stresses that many places do not take card, so cash is vital. Even more importantly, he warns not to rely on the official exchange rate. In the video, he explains:
- Official rate example: $1 equals roughly 130 Algerian dinar
- Street/black market rate example: $1 equals roughly 230–240 Algerian dinar
His takeaway is clear: to make your trip easier, organise cash and exchange in a way that reflects what locals use. He also advises against pulling money from an ATM and notes that credit cards may not be accepted widely.
Hotel base in the heart of Algiers
Waleed stays at Hotel de la Post Algiers and shows a room with a balcony view. He also mentions the property’s distinctive spiral staircase and a mural inside the hotel that showcases Algeria’s diversity—perfect after a travel day when you want comfort and character in equal measure.
Grand Mosque of Algiers: “biggest mosque in Africa”
Heading out into the city, Waleed’s next stop is high on many travellers’ bucket lists: the Grand Mosque of Algiers. In the video, his friend describes it as the “biggest majid in Africa,” and he reacts to its scale—calling attention to the mosque’s impressive height and the atmosphere of the surrounding landmark area.
Casbah of Algiers: where history rises uphill
If Algiers is where the journey begins, the Casbah is where the trip comes alive. Waleed describes it as the number one place to see, explaining that it’s not just an old district—it’s tied closely to Algeria’s fight for independence.
As he walks into the Casbah, he notes the architecture and the way the city shifts visually: French-looking buildings appear, and the route reflects long periods of influence—Ottoman rule, French colonists, and then independence. The walk itself feels symbolic, moving uphill through narrow streets towards key viewpoints.
Ketawa Mosque: mosque, cathedral, and back again
One of the most compelling stories in the video centres on the Ketawa Mosque. Waleed shares that the site has changed roles over time:
- It was originally a mosque
- In the 1830s, the French changed it into a cathedral
- After independence, it became a mosque again
He also mentions that he plans to return during his trip to pray there, suggesting the site isn’t just historical—it’s still meaningful.
Trying Algerian dates and meeting genuine hospitality
Not everything about this first day is sightseeing. Waleed also highlights the human side of Algeria—warm welcoming people, gifts, and small moments that stay with you.
At the Casbah, he stops at a date stall and tries Algerian dates—calling them some of the best he’s had. He’s even gifted extra dates by a local, reinforcing the sense that the country’s hospitality is a major part of the experience.
Why Algeria feels underrated—based on a first day
By the end of his arrival and early exploration, Waleed’s message is passionate: don’t overthink it—skip the usual assumptions and consider Algeria. His first impressions point to a blend of stunning scenery, deep history, distinct culture, and friendly people, all in one place.
Plan your own first trip with Sakina Tours
If you’re inspired by Waleed’s first impressions of Algeria, Sakina Tours can help you turn curiosity into a smooth, curated itinerary. From planning around visa timing and arrival logistics to guiding you through Algiers’ historic neighbourhoods and beyond, we’ll help you experience Algeria in a way that feels effortless and rewarding.
Ready to explore Algeria? Contact Sakina Tours to plan your journey from Algiers into the wider country—discovering the diversity that makes every region feel like a new chapter.
