Madrid – The Spanish daily newspaper El País promoted Algeria on Thursday through its dedicated travel section “El País Viajes,” describing Algeria as a “hidden gem, rich in diversity and unexplored treasures.” The article, written by Sara Andrade Abad, was titled “Algeria, a Journey Between Landmarks, the Desert, and Cervantes,” presenting Algeria as a rich tourist destination that blends history, culture, nature, and stunning landscapes.
The expert traveler and writer Emma Lira, a historical novelist and author of “The Captive” about Cervantes’ captivity in Algeria (which was adapted into a film by Alejandro Amenábar), recommended a 12-day tourist itinerary. This trip, scheduled for January and March 2026, would start from the capital Algiers and take tourists deep into the desert.
The article’s introduction invites readers to a unique journey far from usual routes, describing Algeria as a blank canvas and a destination where the spirit of adventure is alive.
El País highlighted Algeria’s breathtaking natural scenery and unique historical heritage, starting with Algiers and its ancient Kasbah, with its endless alleyways, along with the famous “Cervantes Cave” in the Belouizdad neighborhood—described as a witness to the forgotten era.
Beyond the capital, the article pointed out that Algeria boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, especially Roman ruins and the Mauritanian Royal Mausoleum (Tombeau de la Chrétienne) in Tipaza, as well as the ancient cities of Timgad and Djemila.
The journey reveals Algeria’s vast geography and expansive desert, especially around Ghardaia, with its M’zab Valley, traditional palaces, markets, and the beauty of the red city of Timimoun, so named for its red buildings and palace.
Emma Lira was also captivated by the city of Beni Abbes, called the “Pearl of the Saoura” because of its stunning landscapes featuring palm oases and sand dunes, with the journey ending in Taghit, the desert jewel of Algeria’s heartland.
This feature in one of Spain’s most influential newspapers is a valuable promotion enhancing Algeria’s image as a premier and diverse tourist destination, an important step supporting the country’s strategic tourism development under the national plan that aims to diversify the economy and attract global visitors.algeriainvest+1
