15 Facts About Algeria Most People Get Wrong
Algeria is home to 45.4M people across 2,381,741 km², making it a country with vast stretches of open, largely empty land. It ranks 1st in the world for Gas Reserves.
Below are 15 facts about Algeria, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Algeria
A complete overview of Algeria's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Algeria is the largest country in Africa and the Arab world.
The Sahara Desert covers 90% of Algeria's territory.
Algeria has the largest natural gas reserves in Africa.
Ancient Rome built over 40 cities in what is now Algeria.
Algeria is located in North Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Algiers.
The population of Algeria is approximately 45.4M, spread across 2,381,741 km² of territory.
Algeria has a population density of 19/km²: one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth.
Algeria has a coastline of 998 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Algeria shares land borders with 6 countries: Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco.
The official languages of Algeria are Arabic / Tamazight.
Algeria uses the Algerian Dinar (DZD) as its official currency.
Algeria gained independence in 1962, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in North Africa.
The total GDP of Algeria is $191B, with a GDP per capita of $4,207, classifying it as a lower-middle-income economy.
Algeria has a hot desert south, mediterranean north climate, with the best time to visit being October–April.
Algeria is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $3–7.
Algeria is the largest country in Africa, bigger than all of Western Europe combined. The Sahara Desert covers 90% of its territory, yet most of the population lives within 100km of the Mediterranean coast.
🏆 Algeria World Rankings
Algeria holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Algeria
Algeria is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🏛️ Casbah of Algiers
A UNESCO hillside labyrinth of Ottoman palaces and narrow alleys above the Mediterranean
🏺 Timgad
A remarkably preserved UNESCO Roman city built by Emperor Trajan in 100 AD
🎨 Tassili n'Ajjer
UNESCO plateau with 15,000 ancient rock paintings dating back 12,000 years
🏛️ Djémila
UNESCO Berber-Roman ruins spectacularly set in the mountains of northeastern Algeria
Frequently Asked Questions About Algeria
What is Algeria famous for?
Algeria is the largest country in Africa, bigger than all of Western Europe combined. The Sahara Desert covers 90% of its territory, yet most of the population lives within 100km of the Mediterranean coast.
What is the capital of Algeria?
The capital of Algeria is Algiers.
What is the population of Algeria?
Algeria has a population of approximately 45.4M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Algeria?
The official languages of Algeria are Arabic / Tamazight.
When did Algeria become an independent country?
Algeria gained independence in 1962.
What currency does Algeria use?
Algeria uses the Algerian Dinar (DZD).
What is the GDP of Algeria?
Algeria has a GDP of $191B, with a GDP per capita of $4,207.
Where is Algeria located?
Algeria is located in North Africa, Africa.
Is Algeria safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Algeria vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Algeria?
Algeria is the largest country in Africa and the Arab world. The Sahara Desert covers 90% of Algeria's territory. Algeria has the largest natural gas reserves in Africa.
What are some interesting facts about Algeria?
The Sahara Desert covers 90% of Algeria's territory. Algeria has the largest natural gas reserves in Africa. Ancient Rome built over 40 cities in what is now Algeria.
Algeria facts: what should I know?
Algeria is a country in North Africa with a population of 45.4M. Its capital is Algiers and its official language is Arabic / Tamazight. Algeria is the largest country in Africa and the Arab world.
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