Things To Do
in Béchar
Béchar is a city located in the northwest of Algeria, close to the border with Morocco. It is known for its hot desert climate with extremely high temperatures during the summer months. Béchar is surrounded by vast desert landscapes, making it an ideal destination for desert exploration and adventure seekers.
The city is also famous for its traditional architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Labas?" - How are you?
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Ma'a salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Ksar of Béchar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient buildings and learn about the rich history of the area.
Enjoy a traditional Algerian lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the city's vibrant markets.
Visit a nearby café to savor some mint tea as you watch the sunset. Enjoy the local ambiance and perhaps engage in conversations with residents.
Set out on an exciting desert excursion to the nearby Sahara. Capture breathtaking views of the mesmerizing dunes.
Indulge in a picnic lunch amidst the stunning desert landscape. Explore the rich flora and fauna unique to the Saharan region.
As night falls, experience a traditional desert campfire with local music and storytelling. Enjoy stargazing in the clear desert sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Béchar is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- The city offers beautiful desert landscapes and unique geological formations.
- Béchar has a strategic location that facilitates trade and transportation in the region.
- It has a relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities in Algeria.
- The community is known for its hospitality and friendly atmosphere.
- The climate can be extremely hot and dry, especially during summer months.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to more developed urban centers.
- Access to advanced healthcare and educational facilities can be inadequate.
- Public transportation options may be less reliable or less comprehensive.
- Water scarcity can be an issue due to the arid environment.
Best Activities in Béchar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Béchar is located on the northern edge of the Sahara Desert, offering opportunities for desert exploration, camel rides, and sand dune adventures.
Taghit Oasis is a picturesque spot near Béchar, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, palm groves, and serene water pools amidst the desert landscape.
Djebel Baroun, a mountain range near Béchar, is a great location for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding desert terrain.
Tours
Uncover the best of Béchar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Béchar
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful location with magnificent sand dunes and breathtaking views for photography.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, ideal for capturing stunning photos.
Food in Béchar
Béchar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Algerian dish of slow-roasted whole lamb or camel meat seasoned with local spices. Best experienced at local restaurants and during special occasions and festivals.
Must-Try!
A variant of couscous typically served with tender lamb or vegetables, flavored with aromatic spices, and accompanied by a rich broth. Available at family-run restaurants and traditional eateries.
Renowned for their rich flavor and sweetness, these dates are a local specialty and can be found at markets and street stalls throughout Béchar. They are often used in various traditional desserts and pastries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Béchar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, including dates, figs, olives, and spices. Visitors can also savor authentic street food like Maakouda (potato fritters) and Merguez (spicy lamb sausages) from the vibrant stalls.
A vibrant market where visitors can explore a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and staple ingredients. The market also offers an opportunity to sample local street food such as Chakhchoukha (a bread salad dish) and Chekhchoukha (a spice-infused pasta dish) from friendly vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Béchar, it's important to greet people with a handshake, using the right hand, or with salaam aleikum (peace be upon you) along with a slight bow of the head.
Showing respect for elders is highly valued in Béchar. It's important to address older individuals with proper titles and to listen attentively when they speak.
Hospitality is a key cultural value in Béchar. If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift such as pastries or dates as a sign of appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Béchar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Béchar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Béchar, Algeria is not mandatory but appreciated in places like restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides. It is customary to leave a small amount of money as a tip, usually around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Béchar, Algeria. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger establishments, but it is still advisable to carry cash for smaller businesses and street vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Béchar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Béchar, as the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are adorned with a variety of wildflowers. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the unique beauty of the region.
Autumn is another ideal time to visit Béchar. The temperatures are milder, and the desert landscapes are transformed by the changing colors of the foliage. It's a good time for hiking and enjoying the stunning natural scenery.
Summers in Béchar can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F). It's not the most comfortable time to visit, especially for outdoor activities. However, if you can handle the heat, the summer months offer the opportunity to experience traditional desert events and festivals.
Winter in Béchar is relatively mild during the day but can get quite cold at night. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and want to witness the beauty of the desert without the scorching heat. Winter also marks the start of the date harvest season, which is an interesting cultural experience to be a part of.
Béchar at Night
Hiking in Béchar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic gorge located a few hours from Béchar, known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
A mountainous area near Béchar offering several hiking routes with beautiful views of the surrounding terrain.
An ancient castle with surrounding hills that provide hiking opportunities to explore the history and natural beauty of the area.
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique rock formations and vast hiking trails, located a bit further southeast of Béchar.
A large salt flat that offers unique hiking experiences in a surreal landscape, located a distance from Béchar.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Béchar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Béchar by plane.
The main airport serving Béchar, Algeria.
One of the largest international airports in Algeria, located in Oran, approximately 260 km from Béchar.
The busiest airport in Algeria, located in the capital city Algiers, about 1,000 km from Béchar.
An airport serving Tindouf, located around 425 km southwest of Béchar.
An airport located in Ouarzazate, Morocco, about 470 km from Béchar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Béchar, representing a mix of Arab and Berber ancestry.
A significant ethnic group in the Saharan region, known for their nomadic lifestyle.
These are the Arab populations that have historically settled in the Saharan regions.
This group includes various ethnicities from Sub-Saharan Africa who have migrated to Béchar.
A smaller demographic mainly consisting of French nationals and other European communities residing in Béchar.
The Soul of Béchar
Discover the essence of Béchar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Béchar, with a strong local following and amateur clubs competing in various leagues.
Handball enjoys significant popularity, with local teams participating in regional competitions and tournaments.
Athletics is popular among youth and is often promoted through local schools and clubs, with events such as running and jumping.
Basketball has gained popularity in Béchar, with local youth engaging in informal games and organized competitions.
Martial arts, including judo and karate, have a strong presence in Béchar, with various dojos and clubs offering training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Béchar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat dishes are predominant, many restaurants and markets in Béchar offer a variety of flavorful vegetarian options like Taktouka, Batata Harra (spicy potatoes), and Loubia (bean stew). It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Traditional dishes like Mechoui, Couscous Béchari, and fresh salads can often be enjoyed gluten-free. However, it's recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to accommodate gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Béchar with these cultural adventures.
