Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Planning, Trip > Travellers' Advisories, Safety and Security on the Road
Travellers' Advisories, Safety and Security on the Road Recent News, political or military events, which may affect trip plans or routes. Personal and vehicle security, tips and questions.
Photo by Daniel Rintz, Himba children, Namibia

The only impossible journey
is the one
you never begin

Photo by Daniel Rintz,
Himba children, Namibia



Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 3 Jun 2010
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: USA
Posts: 1
Algeria to Libya

In September, my wife and I want to drive our car (a 1991 Citroen with NJ plates) from Barcelona across North Africa. The plan is to ferry over to Morocco for a month, then return to Spain and take another ferry to Oran and then drive east through Algeria, Tunisia and Libya. On any trip into the desert we would leave the Citroen in whatever town, and join some 4x4 group.

Is there any other way of getting from Spain to Algeria?

But our big question is: Is it safe? The US State Department and the
UK Foreign Office don't think so, and urge tourists not to drive
across Algeria. We've driven across and through Turkey, Jordan, Syria
and Egypt , as well as all through Russia and Ukraine, without a hint
of trouble. Is Algeria dangerous for tourists on the open roads, going mainly from west to east near the coast?


Are cars required to attach Algerian plates rather than their own? What are the rules for driving in Libya with your own vehicle?



Thanks.
Sy
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 7 Jun 2010
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Banff Area
Posts: 1
Oh Algeria...

Hi
I just spent three months working in Algeria based out of Annaba. I had a reasonably good experience there but while it was peaceful, it sometimes felt like a rather uneasy sort of peace that was enforced by an officer on every corner. I have no experience traveling outside the city as our company banned excursions beyond the city limits. However, in making the "pitch" as to why it was safe for me to go to Algeria, I viewed a map of the attacks on foreigners and police over the past 2 years and there were a lot of red dots on the map outside of the cities. It seems that most attacks are targeted towards police and the military. They are usually fake road blocks and tended to happen in mountain passes and confined areas on the road. Since most attacks are targeted towards police, it is possible you could pass by a fake road block and not know the difference. I am quite sure that many travelers pass through the region every year without incident but be aware of the risks and take simple precautions like traveling in the daytime and not being too "flashy" with the gear.

In addition be aware that it is difficult to travel in some areas unless you have a pass for that specific area and a good reason to be there. Paperwork is a nightmare in that country and as it employs a lot of people, there is a lot of it. Be prepared for delays and some expense. Also there is a border dispute with Morocco so I am not sure if it is even possible to cross directly from Algeria. Maybe other HUBB folks out the could comment on that.

I don't think there is anyway to get to Algeria from Spain but there is a ferry from Marseilles once or twice a week. If you do find yourself in Annaba, be sure to check out the roman ruins and museum. Its like most other ruins except there is no glass between you and the artifacts. No photos allowed but you can touch pottery from time of Christ. Go figure. Pretty cool anyway.

I hope this information is helpful. Have a great trip.
Cheers
Derek

Last edited by deekcanoe; 7 Jun 2010 at 06:08. Reason: Forgot to mention the ferry and museum.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 7 Jun 2010
Chris Scott's Avatar
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2000
Posts: 4,801
IMO Derek's extremely restricted experience working there (normal) is at odds with the relative freedom that tourists get, as long as they have an escort.


Is there any other way of getting from Spain to Algeria?

The ferry you mention is the way. Morocco border is long time closed but it looks like Sy knows this (makes a change!)

But our big question is: Is it safe? The US State Department and the
UK Foreign Office don't think so, and urge tourists not to drive
across Algeria. We've driven across and through Turkey, Jordan, Syria
and Egypt , as well as all through Russia and Ukraine, without a hint
of trouble. Is Algeria dangerous for tourists on the open roads, going mainly from west to east near the coast?


Algeria is not comparable with those safe places IMO but after many years of inaction it appears the state has decided to act in the Kabylie (north east) where many of the attacks Derek mentions (as well as local kidnapping/extortion) have occured. Daily, AQIM/GSPC types are surrendering or being killed. Plenty of stories like this at the moment. It could all be coming to a head (which is a good thing).

Avoid the Kabylie. From Oran I would drive the Citroen south into the desert - Ain Sefra, Bechar, Taghit, Timimoun, across to El Menia (El Golea) up to Ghardaia and then Touggourt, El Oued and into Tunisia at Nefta. Hot, but a brilliant road tour and one that avoids the real danger zone. You will need a tourist agency escort (50-100 eu a day) as well as possibly joining the occasional OTT gendarmerie convoys who want you out of their jurisdiction - but it will all be worth it for peace of mind.


Are cars required to attach Algerian plates rather than their own?

No, but in Kabylie you might feel more comfortable if they were - especially with US plates. Might be better to make up a set of plates on a Spanish or any European pattern if possible, without the 'garden state' bit. As long as the number match, who cares.

In my experience the Algerian people are great - even the men in hats - and will admire and appreciate an American for visiting their country. I am sure you know how to comport yourself from your previous travels in similar countries.

What are the rules for driving in Libya with your own vehicle?

A long story - ask again on HUBB Sahara forum - this post ought to be moved there - or see this -

Chris S
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Algeria to Libya, January 2010 Nick849 North Africa 3 19 Aug 2009 18:22
libya & algeria Todd & Christina Route Planning 2 1 Nov 2007 18:05
Libya or Algeria chmielan North Africa 1 4 May 2006 12:23
Visa logistics for Libya and Algeria nick_horley North Africa 8 29 Oct 2003 17:55
Algeria/Libya in July Ulli North Africa 2 4 May 2001 12:17

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 18:25.