Things To Do
in Belkheir

Belkheir is a charming town located in the Béchar Province of Algeria, known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The town is surrounded by the stunning Sahara Desert, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and experience the warm hospitality of the local Berber community.

Belkheir serves as a gateway for those wanting to explore the vastness of the desert and the traditional lifestyles of its inhabitants.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Belkheir
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can find fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Sample some local pastries for breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the ancient kasbah and take a guided tour to learn about its history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional dishes while enjoying live music from local artists.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in the Desert
morning
:

Embark on a guided camel trek into the Sahara Desert to witness the stunning dunes and experience the tranquility of the desert landscape.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the desert, followed by a visit to nearby oases to explore their unique flora and fauna.

evening
:

Return to Belkheir and enjoy stargazing in the clear desert sky, followed by a traditional dinner around a campfire.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30
🏨Hotel (nightly)$25
Coffee$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers.
  • Extreme weather conditions in summer.
  • "Salam" - Hello
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Min fadlak" - Please
  • "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ma'a as-salamah" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Belkheir

Visit one of these nice places.

Ancient Kasbah

Capture stunning views of the historical architecture and the surrounding landscape.

Sahara Desert Dunes

An ideal location for breathtaking sunset photographs against the golden sands.

Local Market

Vibrant scenes of daily life and colorful displays of local produce and crafts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Belkheir

Belkheir offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Algerian flavors and unique local dishes. The town's cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices that reflect the region's cultural heritage.

Belkheir Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Couscous

A staple dish made from steamed semolina, often served with vegetables and meat.

Must-Try!

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.

Chakhchoukha

A traditional dish featuring torn pieces of flatbread mixed with a flavorful sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Belkheir Market

A bustling local market where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks.

Street Kebabs

Grilled meat skewers available from street vendors, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Climate Guide

Weather

Belkheir experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F) at night. Rainfall is scarce, occurring mainly in the winter months. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when temperatures are more comfortable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively, respecting local customs and traditions.

Greetings

A handshake is common; men should wait for women to extend their hand first.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect towards older individuals in the community.

Safety Guide

Safety

Belkheir is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious with personal belongings. Always stay informed about local customs and follow guidance from local authorities.

Tipping in Belkheir

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service providers, typically around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some places may also accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the desert.

Summer

Very hot, with daytime temperatures soaring; it's best to plan activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Pleasant weather, perfect for hiking and cultural festivals.

Winter

Cool temperatures at night; pack warm clothing for desert excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Belkheir at Night

Belkheir's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few cafes and restaurants staying open late. Traditional music performances and cultural events can occasionally be found, offering visitors a glimpse into local customs. Alcohol consumption is generally limited, and socializing often revolves around family and community gatherings.

Hiking in Belkheir

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tassili n'Ajjer National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique rock formations and prehistoric rock art, offering various hiking trails.

Ouled Naïl Mountains

A scenic area with trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Belkheir by plane.

Béchar Airport (CBH)

Located approximately 90 km from Belkheir, Béchar Airport serves as the primary gateway for domestic and some international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Belkheir is a walkable town with narrow streets that allow for easy exploration on foot. Most attractions, including markets and historical sites, are within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors. However, be prepared for some uneven terrain, especially in areas surrounding the kasbah.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berber Community

The indigenous people of the region, known for their rich culture, traditions, and craftsmanship.

Arab Community

A significant demographic group that contributes to the cultural and social fabric of Belkheir.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Algeria, with local teams often competing in community leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is a cultural sport, often featured in local festivals and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Belkheir is generally light, with most transportation being done by foot or local taxis. Public transportation options include shared mini-buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. Be cautious of unpaved roads when traveling outside the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Belkheir.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly couscous and salads.

Halal Food

All meat served in local eateries is halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Belkheir are limited, with basic services available at local clinics. For more serious medical issues, visitors may need to travel to larger cities like Béchar for better-equipped hospitals. It's advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Algeria

Read more in our Algeria 2025 Travel Guide.

Algeria Travel Guide