Bekkaria
,Bekkaria is a small town located in northern Algeria, situated in the Boumerdès province. It lies in a hilly region, characterized by a mix of rural landscapes and areas of agricultural activity. The town is known for its traditional architecture and close-knit community, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Kabylie region.
Bekkaria, though relatively lesser-known, serves as a quieter alternative to larger urban centers, offering a glimpse of local life and traditions.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Labas?" - How are you?
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Ma'a salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $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: $10 - $25
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Bekkaria
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can experience the vibrancy of local culture. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Algerian breakfast at a nearby café.
afternoon
:Take a walking tour of the historical sites in the town, including the old mosque. Spend some time in a nearby park to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
evening
:Dine at a local restaurant and try classic Algerian dishes. Enjoy the evening breeze while chatting with locals in the town square.
Nature Day
morning
:Spend your morning hiking in the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Bekkaria. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.
afternoon
:Visit the nearby waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the water. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in picturesque views.
evening
:Return to Bekkaria for an evening stroll through the neighborhood. Savor a light dinner at a café with outdoor seating.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Strategic location that could benefit trade and tourism.
- Natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
- Community-oriented environment.
Bad
- Limited economic opportunities and job market.
- Challenges with infrastructure and public services.
- Potential political instability in the region.
- Environmental concerns related to urbanization and development.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Kabylie Mountains
Explore the stunning trails of the Kabylie Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna.
Picnicking at Aïn El Hammam
Spend a relaxing day with family or friends at Aïn El Hammam, a scenic area perfect for picnics amidst nature.
Caving in the caves of Beni Add
Discover the fascinating underground world of the Beni Add caves, perfect for adventure seekers and spelunking enthusiasts.
Visiting local markets
Experience the vibrant culture of Bekkaria by visiting local markets, where you can find handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local delicacies.
Birdwatching in the wetlands
Enjoy birdwatching in the nearby wetlands, where you can observe various species of birds in their natural habitat.
Cycling through the countryside
Take a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque countryside surrounding Bekkaria, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Bekkaria with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Bekkaria Mountain
A scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, perfect for photography during sunrise and sunset.
Koudiat El Aouicha
A popular spot among local photographers, known for its stunning vistas and tranquility, ideal for capturing nature shots.
The Barrage de Bekkaria
A picturesque dam providing beautiful reflections in the water and vibrant landscapes, great for both landscape photography and nature photography.
Bekkaria Town Center
The historic architecture and vibrant streets offer unique urban photography opportunities, particularly appealing at golden hour.
The Olive Groves
Idyllic scenery featuring vast fields of olive trees, perfect for capturing the essence of rural life and the beauty of nature.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Couscous
A staple in Algerian cuisine, couscous is often served with a variety of meats and vegetables. It's a must-try dish at 'Restaurant El-Wahid' where they serve it with lamb and a generous portion of stewed vegetables.
Must-Try!
Chakhchoukha
A traditional dish made from torn pieces of bread topped with a mix of lamb or chicken in sauce. 'Café Bekkaria' offers an authentic experience with this dish.
Merguez
Spicy sausage made from lamb, Merguez is a popular street food. Head to 'Street Food Stalls near the Market', where you can enjoy it grilled in a sandwich.
Mechouia Salad
A grilled pepper and tomato salad seasoned with spices, often served with bread. 'El-Khadra Café' is known for its refreshing version of this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bekkaria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bekkaria Central Market
A bustling marketplace where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients. It's an ideal spot to sample local cheeses and olives.
Street Food Stalls
Various stalls around the central market offer delicious street food options, including grilled skewers, pastries, and street-side shawarma.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Bekkaria, it is customary to greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. When greeting someone, especially elders, it's important to use polite phrases like 'Salam Alaikum' (Peace be upon you).
Dress Code
Modest dressing is appreciated in Bekkaria, especially in traditional and religious settings. Women are encouraged to wear long dresses or skirts, while men should avoid shorts in public places.
Dining Etiquette
When invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as pastries or fruit. It's also customary to wait for the host to invite you to start eating and to eat with the right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bekkaria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Bekkaria, Algeria, tipping is a common practice, especially in the hospitality sector. It is generally expected to tip service workers, such as waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, as a sign of appreciation for good service. The amount can vary but typically ranges from 5% to 10% of the total bill. However, it is not obligatory, and the locals may adjust the tip based on the quality of service received.
Payment
Payments in Bekkaria can be made through various methods. Cash is widely used, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger shops, hotels, and restaurants. Mobile payment systems are gaining popularity, particularly among younger consumers. It is advisable for visitors to carry cash for smaller transactions, as card facilities may not be available everywhere.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bekkaria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Bekkaria, as temperatures are mild and comfortable. Expect blooming landscapes, lush greenery, and pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities.
Summer
Summer (June to August) can be quite hot in Bekkaria, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you visit during this time, prepare for high heat, especially in July and August, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit. The temperatures begin to cool down, making it comfortable for exploring the area. You can also expect beautiful fall foliage and fewer tourists.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Bekkaria is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While this season is less popular for tourists, visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, and occasional rain can enhance the region's verdant surroundings.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Bekkaria Mountain
A scenic mountain range offering various trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Kharouba Plateau
An elevated area featuring diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking enthusiasts seeking adventure and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Toubkal National Park
A bit further from Bekkaria, but a renowned destination for trekking with its iconic mountain and several hiking trails that cater to different skill levels.
Chrea National Park
Known for its lush forests and diverse ecosystems, this park offers numerous hiking paths, making it a great spot for a day trip.
Ain Defla Trails
Located near Ain Defla, these trails lead through scenic valleys and hills, suitable for casual hikers and families.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Bekkaria by plane.
Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG)
The main international airport serving Algiers, located approximately 20 kilometers from Bekkaria.
Oran Ahmed Ben Bella Airport (ORN)
Located around 450 kilometers from Bekkaria, this airport serves the city of Oran as its international gateway.
Constantine Mohamed Boudiaf Airport (CZL)
Approximately 220 kilometers away, this airport serves international flights to and from Constantine.
Tlemcen Zenata Airport (TLM)
Situated about 480 kilometers from Bekkaria, this airport serves international flights for the western region of Algeria.
Annaba Rabah Bitat Airport (AAE)
Located roughly 420 kilometers from Bekkaria, this airport serves international destinations for the city of Annaba.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Arab Berbers
The majority ethnic group in Bekkaria, combining both Arab and Berber cultures and languages.
Algerian Arabs
A significant demographic group in the region, primarily speaking Arabic and practicing Islam.
Kabyle Berbers
A notable subgroup characterized by their unique language and cultural traditions, mostly found in northern Algeria.
Other Ethnic Minorities
Includes a small number of individuals from sub-Saharan Africa and other regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Bekkaria and Algeria as a whole, with a strong local following and participation in various competitions.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth in Bekkaria, with many local teams and an increasing number of courts.
Handball
Handball is also played in Bekkaria, particularly in schools and community tournaments, contributing to its local popularity.
Volleyball
Volleyball is played recreationally in Bekkaria, especially among women, fostering community engagement and teamwork.
Athletics
Athletic events, including track and field, are popular in schools and local competitions, promoting fitness and sportsmanship.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian Options
Some local dishes such as Mechouia Salad and various vegetable tagines are suitable for vegetarians. Many restaurants offer customizable vegetable plates upon request.
Vegan Options
While traditional Algerian cuisine leans towards meat dishes, options like flatbreads, salads, and vegetable-based stews can be found in most eateries.
Gluten-Free
Couscous can often be replaced with rice in many dishes, so be sure to inquire at restaurants. Additionally, many vegetable-based dishes are naturally gluten-free.