Things To Do
in Mansourah

National staple—steamed semolina served with vegetables and meat (lamb or chicken); available at family restaurants and weekend markets.

Must-Try!

Slow‑cooked stew with meat, vegetables and aromatic spices; order beef, lamb or chicken versions in traditional eateries.

Hearty spiced soup often served in winter or during Ramadan; you’ll find it in cafés and market stalls.

Semolina‑based pastries filled with dates or almonds—available at bakeries and patisseries in the medina.

Weekly markets and daily souk stalls sell fresh bread, olives, cheeses, grilled skewers and seasonal produce—great for tasting regional specialties and street snacks.

Small cafés near the university and ruins offering mint tea, coffee, and pastries—ideal for people‑watching and light bites.

Use polite greetings (Arabic or French) and a light handshake; greet elders first. 'As‑salaam‑alaykum' is widely used and appreciated.

Dress modestly, especially near religious sites—women should consider covering shoulders and knees; conservative clothing reduces unwanted attention.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and religious ceremonies; some will prefer not to be photographed.

Remove shoes when entering homes and some religious sites; during Ramadan avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight out of respect.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up small bills for cafés and taxis, and leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good. Small tips to porters or guides are welcome.

The Algerian dinar (DZD) is used—cash is king in markets and small restaurants. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants; ATMs are available in Tlemcen but carry sufficient cash for rural areas.

Pleasant temperatures and wildflowers—one of the best times to visit for hiking and photography; occasional rain early in the season.

Hot and dry inland; expect high daytime temperatures—stay hydrated, plan outdoor activities for mornings/evenings and seek shade during peak heat.

Cooling temperatures and periodic rain; comfortable for walking and sightseeing with fewer tourists than spring.

Mild to cool with most rainfall occurring now; some higher elevations can be chilly—bring a warm layer for evenings and possible wet weather gear.

Marked and unmarked trails through forested areas, valleys and ridgelines—good for half‑day to full‑day hikes and wildlife spotting.

Less frequented paths that reward hikers with views of olive terraces, traditional villages and rural landscapes.

More rugged hiking in the Trara mountains for experienced walkers—offers dramatic coastal and inland panoramas (plan carefully and use a local guide if unfamiliar).

Short, family‑friendly routes around the waterfalls and pools—ideal for photography, picnics and a relaxing nature walk.

Vegetarian options exist (couscous with vegetables, salads, lentil soups), but many dishes include meat or meat broth—ask specifically for vegetable versions and look for vegetable mezze in markets.

More challenging but possible: rely on legumes, salads, breads and vegetable tajines; clearly communicate vegan needs and avoid dishes made with butter or meat stock.

Most meat in Algeria is halal and widely available; halal concerns are generally straightforward in Mansourah.

Cross‑contamination is possible in markets and small kitchens—carry translations of key allergy terms in Arabic or French and ask staff when in doubt.