Things To Do
in Bekkaria

Bekkaria is a small, rural town in northern Algeria set among rolling hills and agricultural fields, within reach of the Mediterranean coast and the Tell Atlas foothills. The town has a slow, community-oriented rhythm where olive groves, small farms and traditional markets shape daily life. Visitors will notice a mix of modern concrete buildings and older stone houses, with local mosques and cafés as social hubs.

Bekkaria is best experienced by exploring nearby nature, sampling home-style Algerian cuisine, and using a nearby regional city as a base for larger services and transport connections.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Bekkaria's Rich History
morning
:

Start your journey with a visit to the ancient ruins of Timgad, where you can admire the well-preserved Roman architecture and learn about the history of the region. Take your time wandering through the picturesque streets, absorbing the grandeur of the ancient columns and theaters. Don't forget to capture some stunning photos amidst the spectacular historic backdrop.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Algerian lunch at a local café, sampling dishes such as couscous and tagine that reflect Bekkaria's culinary heritage. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Berber villages, interacting with friendly locals and appreciating the unique craftsmanship of their handmade goods. As you travel, soak in the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding mountains.

evening
:

Wrap up the day by attending a vibrant local festival, if available, where the rhythms of traditional music and dance fill the air. Experience the warmth of Bekkaria's community as you engage in lively interactions with the locals. End your evening with dessert at a local bakery, indulging in delicious pastries and mint tea.

day 2
Nature and Adventure in the Atlas Mountains
morning
:

Rise early for a guided hike in the picturesque Atlas Mountains surrounding Bekkaria. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you traverse trails offering panoramic views of lush valleys and rugged peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this breathtaking ecosystem.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch amidst nature, enjoying local delicacies while surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Post-lunch, embark on an adventurous activity such as rock climbing or mountain biking, tailored to suit all skill levels. Experience the thrill of exploring hidden gems often missed by typical tourists.

evening
:

Return to Bekkaria in the evening, where you can unwind at a local cafe with views of the sunset over the mountains. Share your day's adventure with fellow travelers over a hearty meal. Relish in the charm of the town as night falls, with starlit skies providing a perfect end to your outdoor experience.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
Coffee or tea at a café$0.50-1.50
🚕Local taxi/fare (short ride)$1-3
🏨Basic guesthouse / budget hotel (per night)$20-40
🛒Groceries for a day (local produce)$3-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic rural Algerian experience with welcoming local communities
  • Close access to nature—olive groves, hills and nearby coastline for day trips
  • Affordable prices for food, transport and accommodation
  • Great for slow travel, photography and learning about local agriculture
  • Limited tourist infrastructure—few formal hotels, guided tours or English speakers
  • Card payments and ATMs may be scarce; cash is required for many transactions
  • Quiet nightlife and limited entertainment options within the town
  • Some services (healthcare, specialized shops) require travel to a regional center
  • "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you (common greeting)
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Bessahtek / Bessahtek (بسحتك)" - Good appetite / Enjoy your meal
  • "B'kam hada? (بكم هذا؟)" - How much is this?
  • "La shukran, ana nabni (لا شكراً، أنا نباتي)" - No thank you, I am vegetarian
  • "Parlez-vous français ?" - Do you speak French?

Places to Visit in Bekkaria

Visit one of these nice places.

Town Market (Souq)

Colorful stalls, fresh produce, local vendors and candid street scenes—great for documentary-style shots and portraits with permission.

Olive Groves and Terraced Fields

Patterns of trees and terraces on the hillsides provide atmospheric landscape photos, especially at golden hour.

Village Streets and Traditional Houses

Narrow lanes, old stonework and painted doors offer intimate architectural and cultural details.

Nearby Hills / Viewpoints

Panoramic views over the countryside and, where visible, glimpses of the Mediterranean coastline—excellent for wide-angle landscapes at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bekkaria

Cuisine around Bekkaria reflects broader northern Algerian traditions: hearty, simple, and seasonal. Meals are based on fresh bread, vegetables, legumes, olive oil and lamb or chicken when available; spices are aromatic but not overly fiery. Local produce, such as olives, figs and citrus in season, is a highlight. Cafés and small restaurants (known as 'restaurants familiaux') serve generous portions and home-style cooking.

Bekkaria Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Couscous

The flagship North African dish: steamed semolina served with a stew of vegetables and meat (often lamb or chicken). Many small restaurants and family kitchens serve it on special days.

Must-Try!

Chorba

A comforting tomato-based soup with meat and vegetables, commonly eaten at lunch or to break fast during Ramadan; available at local eateries.

Merguez and Grilled Meats

Spicy lamb or beef sausages and grilled skewers sold at markets and small grills; great for a quick, flavorful bite.

Baklava and Makrout

Sweet pastries and semolina-based desserts sold at patisseries and cafés—ideal with mint tea or coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Souq (Weekly Market)

A weekly market where farmers sell produce, olives, cheese and bread. Try fresh olives, regional cheeses and street snacks like grilled skewers or flatbreads.

Town Centre Food Stalls

Small vendors near the center sell sandwiches, fried pastries and tea — good for quick, inexpensive bites and people-watching.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bekkaria experiences a Mediterranean-influenced climate: warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are transitional, with pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Elevation and proximity to the sea can create local variation—higher ground is cooler and receives more rain in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Polite greetings are important: a handshake and 'Salam' or 'As-salamu alaykum' are common. Use titles and ask about family as a friendly opening.

Dress and Modesty

Dress modestly—both men and women should avoid revealing clothing, particularly in conservative rural areas and near religious sites.

Photography Respect

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women. Some locals may decline—respect their wishes.

Visiting Homes

If invited into a home, bring a small gift (sweets or fruit), remove shoes if asked, and accept hospitality. It’s polite to use your right hand when offering or receiving items.

Ramadan Considerations

During Ramadan, be discreet about eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bekkaria is generally safe for visitors, with low rates of violent crime; normal travel cautions apply. Petty theft can occur—keep valuables secure and be aware in crowded markets. Avoid political demonstrations and follow any local advice from authorities. Roads may be narrow and poorly lit at night—drive cautiously. Carry sufficient water when hiking and inform someone of your route in rural areas.

Tipping in Bekkaria

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns. Leave small change (10–50 DZD) for cafe service or round up bills in restaurants; a slightly larger tip is common in guided tours or for exceptional service.

Payment Methods

Cash (Algerian dinar, DZD) is king in Bekkaria—small vendors and markets rarely accept cards. ATMs exist in larger nearby towns; bring enough cash for rural days. Major credit cards may be accepted in bigger hotels or restaurants in regional centers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March–May) is one of the best times to visit: wildflowers, mild temperatures and green hills. Ideal for hiking, photography and market visits as produce comes into season.

Summer

Summers are warm to hot and dry—perfect for coastal visits if you plan a day trip to the sea. Inland temperatures can be high; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and harvest season for olives and figs; comfortable for outdoor exploration and fewer tourists. Occasional rain starts later in the season.

Winter

Winters are mild but wetter, with rainfall concentrated in this period; higher elevations can be chilly. Some rural services may run reduced hours during the off-season.

Nightlife Guide

Bekkaria at Night

Nightlife in Bekkaria is low-key and community-oriented: evening socializing takes place in tea houses and cafés rather than bars or clubs. Expect family-friendly gatherings, live informal music at community events on special occasions, and quiet streets after 10–11 PM. For more lively nightlife — bars, restaurants with evening entertainment and larger cultural venues — travel to nearby coastal cities or regional centers.

Hiking in Bekkaria

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tell Atlas Foothills Trail (local paths)

Network of unmarked trails through olive groves and low hills—ideal for half-day hikes and landscape photography. Use a local guide or GPS and wear proper footwear.

Coastal Cliff Path (day trip)

If visiting the nearby coast, follow paths along cliffs and coves for dramatic sea views and birdwatching; combine with a visit to a fishing village for lunch.

Olive Grove Loop

Easy loop walks around working olive groves and farm lanes—great for gentle walks, local interaction and learning about traditional agriculture.

Airports

How to reach Bekkaria by plane.

Jijel Ferhat Abbas Airport (GJL)

The nearest regional airport for the Jijel coastal area—useful for access to the eastern Mediterranean coast. From the airport, reach Bekkaria by taxi or regional bus routes via a nearby town; travel time depends on the exact location and road connections.

Constantine Mohamed Boudiaf Airport (CZL)

A larger regional airport with more frequent domestic connections and some international flights. It is a longer road trip but offers more transport options and services; connect onward by bus, grand taxi or rental car.

Houari Boumediene Airport, Algiers (ALG)

Algeria's main international gateway; from Algiers you can take domestic flights, long-distance buses or trains and then local transport to reach the region. Useful if flying internationally or seeking greater flight options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bekkaria’s center is compact and walkable for everyday errands, market visits and café stops. However, attractions, viewpoints and nearby natural sites may require a car, taxi or bicycle. Sidewalks and lighting may be limited in some areas—use caution after dark.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Rural Families

Long-established families engaged in farming, olive cultivation and small trades—community-oriented and often multi-generational households.

Youth and Students

Young people who may travel to nearby towns for education or work; many speak French in addition to Arabic, and some have ties with urban centers.

Diaspora Returnees

Family members who maintain connections with emigrant relatives in Europe or elsewhere; remittances and visits are part of local dynamics.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The dominant sport regionally and nationally—locals follow local and national teams passionately and informal pickup games are common in open fields.

Handball and Futsal

Popular indoor sports, especially among youth in schools and community centers.

Fishing

Along the nearby coast, small-scale fishing is both a livelihood and a pastime; visitors can observe or join local fishermen on organized trips from coastal villages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bekkaria is light compared with cities, but rural roads can be narrow and winding. Driving style in Algeria can be assertive; pay attention to livestock, tractors and pedestrians on country roads. Public transport is mainly regional buses and shared taxis ('grand taxis') that connect to larger towns—schedules can be irregular, so plan extra time.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bekkaria.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available but may be limited in small towns; request vegetable stews, salads, eggs, cheese and bread. Explain preferences simply (in French or Arabic) and you can often get a satisfying meal.

Vegan

Vegan choices are more limited; rely on salads, cooked vegetables, olive oil, legumes and bread. Bringing some snacks or speciality items can be helpful.

Halal/Alcohol

Most meat in Algeria is halal; alcohol is uncommon in small towns and typically available only in larger hotels or shops in bigger cities.

Food Allergies

Labeling is rare—communicate allergies clearly in French or Arabic and confirm ingredients, especially for nuts, dairy and gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Primary healthcare is available through a local clinic for basic needs; for emergencies or specialized care, travel to a hospital in a nearby larger town or regional city. Pharmacies in the area handle common medicines but bring prescription copies and any specific medications you need. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is recommended.

Discover Algeria

Read more in our Algeria 2025 Travel Guide.

Algeria Travel Guide