Arrive in Algeria’s bustling capital. After a personal welcome at the airport, transfer to your boutique hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and orientation walk through the historic center, framed by French-colonial architecture. Overnight in Algiers.

Algiers – Tipasa (UNESCO) (Approximate overall driving time: two hours) - This morning after breakfast we visit Tipasa, home to an astonishing wealth of archaeological remains. On the way we call in at the ‘Tomb of the Christian’, a Numidian site that despite its name is believed to date from the 3rd century BC. Arriving at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tipasa, we tour a remarkable collection of Roman ruins, including villas and an ancient amphitheatre that overlooks the shimmering expanse of the Mediterranean. Thereafter we delve into Algiers, wandering in the atmospheric labyrinth of narrow alleys in the city’s unique casbah (UNESCO), an outstanding example of Maghreb architecture, and one of the most enigmatic places in Algiers. Also visit the Martyrs Memorial and the Basilica de Notre Dame d'Afrique. Overnight at ST Hotel. (BL)

A day trip west along the Mediterranean coast. Explore Tipasa’s UNESCO-listed Roman ruins scattered beside turquoise waters, including temples, basilicas, and an amphitheater. Stop at the Archaeological Museum in Cherchell, known for its classical sculptures, before returning to Algiers for the night.

Fly or drive east to Constantine, dramatically perched above a deep gorge. Walk across its iconic suspension bridges, visit the Ahmed Bey Palace, and enjoy panoramic views from coffee terraces. Evening at leisure in this city of both Berber and Ottoman heritage.

Excursion to Djemila, an exceptionally preserved Roman city high in the mountains. Wander through temples, markets, and mosaics that showcase life in Roman North Africa. Return to Constantine for dinner and overnight.

Spend the day at Timgad, the “Pompeii of Africa.” Its perfectly gridded streets, forums, and arches reveal the grandeur of Trajan’s city. En route, stop at Medracen, the vast Numidian royal tomb predating Rome. Overnight in Constantine or nearby Sétif.

Fly south to the desert-edge oasis of Ghardaïa. Begin exploring the M’Zab Valley, where whitewashed Ibadi Berber towns cling to hilltops. Visit Ghardaïa’s market, famed for traditional carpets, and sip tea with a Mozabite family. Overnight in a boutique desert lodge.

Tour the fortified ksour (towns) of the valley: El Atteuf, Beni Isguen, and Melika. Learn about communal traditions, architecture designed for desert life, and the valley’s UNESCO status. Afternoon picnic among palm groves, with free time to relax before returning to your lodge.

Experience the famous Beni Isguen market, guided by locals who explain its centuries-old rules of trade. Visit cooperatives producing traditional crafts, then take a stroll through lush date-palm gardens. Optional: extend into the surrounding desert for a night of wild camping under the stars.

Fly further south to Djanet, a true desert frontier. After settling into your guesthouse, prepare for your Sahara expedition. Meet your Tuareg guides, enjoy music around the fire, and sleep at the gateway to the dunes.

Begin your 4×4 convoy into Tassili n’Ajjer National Park. Hike through Tikoubaouine’s surreal rock formations and discover prehistoric rock engravings like the famous “Crying Cow.” Evening in a full-service desert camp under a canopy of stars.

Explore the oasis-like Essendilene canyon, where water pools sustain desert life. Meet nomadic families who still roam these landscapes and learn about Tuareg traditions of hospitality. Another night of wild camping with gourmet meals prepared in camp.

Cross sweeping dunes of the Erg Admer. Climb a dune for a sunset view over the endless Sahara, before your last evening in the desert — complete with storytelling, tea, and stargazing.

Fly back to Algiers. Depending on flight schedules, enjoy a final visit to the Bardo Museum (Roman mosaics) or Notre-Dame d’Afrique Basilica overlooking the sea. Transfer to the airport for departure.