Things To Do
in Mascara

The national staple — steamed semolina served with a stew of vegetables and either lamb, chicken or chickpeas. Look for family restaurants and local homes where couscous is made on Fridays.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked stews with lamb, chicken or vegetables, seasoned with local spices and often served with bread. Great in smaller local eateries.

Mascara province produces olives and oil — try freshly pressed oil and local olive varieties at markets or from co‑ops.

Fried phyllo‑style pastries stuffed with egg, tuna or cheese and sweet pastries (baklava-style or local honeyed cakes) available at bakeries and cafés.

The main market offers vegetables, fresh bread, olives, spices and dairy. Ideal for sampling local produce and buying picnic supplies.

Small stalls and boulangeries sell sandwiches, brik, flatbreads and sweets; try the freshly baked bread and sweet pastries in the afternoon.

Mascara is conservative compared with tourist hubs — dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) out of respect for local customs, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Use formal greetings: a handshake is typical between men; wait for a woman to offer her hand. Saying 'Salam' or a French greeting goes a long way.

Ask permission before photographing people, particularly women and in villages; respect signs forbidding photos at some religious or official sites.

Locals are hospitable; if invited into a home, remove shoes when requested, accept a cup of tea and follow your hosts' lead with dining customs.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. In restaurants, leaving 5–10% for good service is common; round up taxi fares and leave small change for hotel staff or guides.

Cash (Algerian dinar) is king in Mascara: markets, small restaurants and taxis rarely accept cards. Larger hotels and some restaurants may accept cards, but ATMs are preferred for cash withdrawal — carry smaller bills and coins for markets.

Mild temperatures, blooming countryside and pleasant hiking conditions — one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities and markets full of fresh produce.

Hot and dry on the plain, especially July–August. Expect strong sun and high daytime temperatures; schedule outdoor exploring for mornings and evenings and stay hydrated.

Cooling temperatures, olive harvest season and comfortable conditions for hiking and rural exploration. A good time for agro‑tourism and visiting co‑ops.

Mild to cool winters with potential rainy periods; higher elevations in nearby hills can be chilly. City life continues but bring a warm layer for evenings.

The nearest major airport with domestic and international flights, roughly 80–120 km west of Mascara by road depending on route; connect by taxi, bus or private transfer.

Algeria’s main international hub located several hours east by road; useful if flying from or through the capital and then connecting by domestic flight or road transport.

Vegetarian options exist: couscous with vegetables, salads, lentil soups and egg-based pastries. Explain your needs (in French or Arabic) and be aware that many dishes are meat-based by default.

Vegans can manage with vegetable stews, salads, olives and bread but should clarify no butter or animal stock is used. Pack snacks if you have strict requirements.

Most meat in Mascara is halal; pork is uncommon. If avoiding alcohol, note that alcoholic beverages are limited and more common in larger cities.

Gluten-free options are limited since bread and couscous are central; communicate needs clearly and favor salads, grilled meats and vegetable dishes.