Things To Do
in Ben N’Choud
Ben N’Choud is a coastal town in northern Algeria known for its friendly hospitality, a busy waterfront, and a mix of traditional markets with Mediterranean flavors. The town blends everyday local life with hints of colonial-era architecture and easy access to nearby hills and beaches. Visitors can wander narrow streets, sample fresh seafood, and enjoy relaxed evenings by the sea.
This compact destination offers affordability, scenic views, and convenient day trips to explore both city life and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a guided tour of the Sahara Desert, experiencing the breathtaking dunes and unique landscapes. Capture stunning photographs as the sun rises over the vast sandy expanses. Enjoy a traditional breakfast in the desert, surrounded by the serenity of nature.
Continue your adventure with a camel ride through the dunes, immersing yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle. Visit local Berber villages and learn about their rich culture and history. Indulge in a hearty lunch featuring regional delicacies before heading back to your camp.
As the sun sets, enjoy a captivating stargazing experience, where the clear desert sky reveals countless stars. Gather around a campfire to share stories and songs with your fellow travelers. Delight in a traditional dinner, savoring tagine and other local specialties while the night envelops the desert.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tassili n'Ajjer to explore ancient rock art that dates back thousands of years. Marvel at the intricate carvings and paintings that depict the life of early inhabitants of the region. Your local guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of these artworks.
Have a picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural scenery before embarking on a short hike to see more rock formations. The unique geological features will leave you in awe as you discover hidden valleys and unique flora. Take your time to capture the beauty around you with your camera.
Head back to Djanet for dinner in a local restaurant, tasting traditional Algerian cuisine. Engage with locals and learn more about their day-to-day lives and customs. Wrap up your evening by strolling through the vibrant markets, picking up unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for one at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transit pass (monthly) | $12-20 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable prices and warm hospitality
- Coastal scenery and easy access to outdoor activities
- Compact town center with convenient markets and seafood options
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Many services are cash-based; some English commonly spoken only in tourist zones
- Fewer large-scale attractions; more small-town charm than iconic landmarks
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Ben N’Choud
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, palm-lined seawalk with golden light over the water and silhouettes of fishing boats.
Narrow white-washed lanes, traditional doors, and colorful accents ideal for portrait and street photography.
Active fishing harbor with nets, market stalls, and daily life scenes in the early evening.
Panoramic view of the town and coastline, especially stunning at sunset.
Food in Ben N’Choud
Ben N’Choud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fluffy semolina grains served with slow-cooked lamb, chickpeas, and seasonal vegetables.
Must-Try!
Herb- and tomato-based soup that opens many meals; comforting and aromatic.
Crispy, stuffed flatbreads with tomato, pepper, and herbs; popular street-food staple.
Coastal fish or shrimp simmered with vegetables in a fragrant sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seafood stalls, fresh herbs, olives, and ready-to-eat pastries along the quay.
Traditional stalls with produce, spices, and street snacks such as msemen and grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A cordial 'Salam' or 'Salam alaykum' is polite; handshake is common in business and social settings.
Moderate clothing is respectful in public spaces, especially outside tourist areas.
Ask before photographing people, and avoid sensitive sites without permission.
Polite small talk and hospitality topics are welcome; avoid delicate subjects like politics or religion in casual encounters.
Safety
Tipping in Ben N’Choud
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service charge is not included; in cafes and for smaller services, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash in local dinars is widely used; some larger establishments and hotels accept credit/debit cards; ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with a refreshing coastal breeze. Hydration and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler evenings. Great for coastal walks and street photography without peak heat.
Milder coastal winters with periodic rain. Ideal for museum visits and indoor markets; pack a light jacket.
Warm days and blooming landscapes; excellent for outdoor activities and photography along the coast.
Ben N’Choud at Night
Hiking in Ben N’Choud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A ridge route offering sea views and a moderate climb, suitable for a half-day hike.
Gentle inland trails through scrubland with seasonal wildflowers and viewpoints over the town.
Relaxed trails along small streams and agricultural terraces, ideal for easy walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Ben N’Choud by plane.
Main international gateway to the Algiers region; most travelers fly in here and then transfer by road to Ben N’Choud.
Major western Algeria airport offering domestic and some international connections; a longer travel option from Ben N’Choud.
Northeastern gateway with regional connections; useful for broader Algeria itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young families and workers who commute to nearby hubs for business and education.
Residents drawn to coastal livelihoods, markets, and local crafts.
A growing segment in and around town centers, contributing to a lively street scene and cafés.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and informal games are common in parks and schools.
Track and field events at local schools or municipal stadiums; weekend meets are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ben N’Choud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature meat or fish, but you can often find lentil or chickpea stews, salads, and vegetable tagines. When ordering, ask for no meat stock and request olive oil-based preparations.