Things To Do
in Mekla
Mekla is a small town located in the Kabylie region of northern Algeria. It is known for its beautiful mountainous landscape and traditional Berber architecture. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Mekla is a peaceful and serene destination, ideal for those seeking a retreat in nature.
- "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): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided hike in the stunning Tassili n'Ajjer, known for its unique rock formations and ancient carvings. Keep your camera ready for breathtaking views and encounters with local wildlife.
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the nearby oases and enjoy the tranquility they offer. This area is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty.
End your day with a traditional Algerian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like couscous or tagine. Enjoy the evening ambiance as you reflect on the day’s adventures.
Begin your Sahara journey with a camel ride through the golden dunes at sunrise, a magical way to experience the desert. Marvel at the changing colors of the landscape as the sun rises high.
Visit a Bedouin camp to learn about the desert lifestyle and traditions. Enjoy a traditional lunch with the locals, possibly trying their famous mint tea.
As night falls, enjoy stargazing in the clear desert sky, a spectacular sight far from city lights. Share stories around a campfire while listening to traditional music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenery.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Strategic location near major cities and trade routes.
- Growing interest in tourism with unique attractions.
- Limited infrastructure and public services.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
- Political instability and governance issues.
- Access to education and healthcare can be strained.
- Environmental concerns including desertification and water scarcity.
Best Activities in Mekla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscape and natural scenery by taking a hike in the nearby mountains around Mekla.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic at the scenic spot of Azrou n’Thour, surrounded by nature and views of the area.
Discover the rural beauty of Mekla by cycling through the countryside and taking in the peaceful environment.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mekla with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mekla
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes
City with beautiful mountainous backdrops and scenic valleys
Impressive waterfalls with picturesque surroundings
Food in Mekla
Mekla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish in Algerian cuisine, couscous is a must-try in Mekla. It is often served with a rich stew of meat and vegetables, offering a delightful explosion of flavors.
Must-Try!
This savory pastry filled with egg, herbs, and sometimes meat, is a popular snack found in Mekla. It's deliciously crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside.
A traditional Algerian dish made with torn pieces of semolina flatbread mixed with a spicy tomato-based sauce and topped with meat or fish. It's a hearty and flavorful meal that provides a unique culinary experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mekla better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visiting the bustling Mekla Market is a must for an authentic culinary experience. Here, you can sample an array of street foods such as freshly baked bread, grilled meats, and aromatic spices. The market also offers a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies.
Exploring the vibrant streets of Mekla, you'll encounter numerous street food stalls offering delectable treats such as merguez sausages, spicy kebabs, and flavorful tagines. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local street food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake, and it is common to inquire about the person's well-being and their family.
In Mekla, respecting elders is highly valued. It is important to use polite language and show deference to older individuals.
When visiting Mekla, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially for women, to adhere to local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mekla with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mekla
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mekla, Algeria, it is customary to leave a small tip, typically around 10-15% of the total bill, for good service at restaurants, cafes, and hotels. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated and seen as a gesture of gratitude for good service.
Payment in Mekla, Algeria is primarily done in cash. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions. It is also common to negotiate prices, particularly in local markets and smaller shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mekla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mekla is during spring when the weather is pleasant and the countryside is in full bloom.
Another great time to visit Mekla, with mild temperatures and the autumn colors painting the landscape.
Expect hot and dry weather during summer, but it can be a good time for outdoor activities.
Winters in Mekla are chilly and can experience occasional snowfall, making it a unique and picturesque experience for visitors.
Mekla at Night
Hiking in Mekla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An ancient Roman city located about 60 km from Mekla, Timgad offers scenic hiking opportunities amidst historical ruins and beautiful landscapes.
A national park known for its stunning rock formations and prehistoric art, located slightly further away but offers several hiking trails in the beautiful Sahara environment.
A region full of rugged mountains and lush forests, ideal for hiking with multiple trails to explore the region's natural beauty.
Although a bit further, Chrea offers breathtaking views with a variety of hiking trails through forests and mountainous terrain.
Located to the northeast, it features stunning mountains and valleys, providing excellent hiking opportunities amidst diverse flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mekla through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mekla by plane.
Located in Algiers, approximately 200 km from Mekla, it is the largest international airport in Algeria.
Located in Oran, about 350 km from Mekla, it serves as a major international gateway.
Situated in Constantine, approximately 400 km from Mekla, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Annaba, around 420 km from Mekla, it is another significant airport facilitating international travel.
Situated in Tlemcen, about 300 km from Mekla, it also handles international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Mekla, consisting of individuals of Arab and Berber descent, reflecting the historical and cultural mix in the region.
A significant minority group, the Tuaregs are traditionally nomadic Berbers who inhabit the Sahara region and have a distinct culture and language.
Various smaller Berber groups are present, contributing to the cultural diversity in Mekla.
A growing number of migrants from sub-Saharan African countries who have settled in Mekla, often seeking better economic opportunities.
This includes various small communities of foreign nationals and other ethnic backgrounds living in Mekla.
The Soul of Mekla
Discover the essence of Mekla through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mekla, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with many local teams and courts available for play.
Athletics, including track and field events, is a popular sport among schools and local sports organizations.
Handball is played widely in local schools and clubs, contributing to its popularity in the region.
Volleyball, especially beach and indoor versions, is enjoyed by both men and women in Mekla.
Various forms of martial arts are practiced in Mekla, including judo and karate, attracting many enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mekla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Algerian cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Mekla offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for dishes like taktouka (a roasted pepper and tomato salad), ojja (spicy tomato and pepper stew), and a variety of mezze plates featuring hummus, baba ganoush, and fresh salads.
Gluten-free options may be available at some establishments in Mekla. Dishes like salade mechouia (grilled vegetable salad) and tajine maadnous (a flavorful vegetable stew) are typically gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate your dietary requirements clearly to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mekla with these cultural adventures.
