Algiers – In a surprising announcement, Condé Nast Traveler magazine has listed Algeria as one of the top travel destinations for 2026. The American publication described Algeria as an ‘African giant finally awakening,’ highlighting the nation’s potential for tourism.
The magazine noted that Algeria, the largest country in Africa, is undergoing a gradual shift towards tourism after years of relative isolation. This transformation aims to showcase Algeria as a global destination that blends natural beauty with a rich and diverse history.
The decision by Algerian authorities to allow visa-on-arrival access to the Algerian Sahara, along with plans to launch a national e-visa program, is seen as a crucial step in quadrupling tourist numbers by 2030. This initiative signals a strong commitment to opening up the country to international visitors.
Significant investments are being made in air transport and hospitality to support this growth. These include expanding the fleet of Air Algérie and launching long-haul routes to destinations like New York. Furthermore, extensive renovation projects are underway for historic hotels, most notably the reopening of the ‘Cirta’ hotel in Constantine in 2026, a landmark dating back to 1912.
The report emphasized Algeria’s unique blend of natural and cultural assets. From the mesmerizing expanse of the Sahara Desert to well-preserved Roman ruins and ancient rock art, and finally to its stunning Mediterranean coastline, Algeria offers a complete tourism experience worthy of exploration in 2026. The magazine suggests that Algeria is poised to become a major player in the global tourism market.
Other African destinations highlighted in the report include the Okavango Delta in Botswana, northern Namibia, Nairobi in Kenya, Angola, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, all recognized for their rapid development in infrastructure and eco-tourism.
