Houari Boumediene Airport
Algiers, DZ · 16.9 km (10.5 mi) east-southeast of central Algiers
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Shuttle Service Shuttle · Every 30 min | 30 min | 50 DA |
| Car Rental Services Other · Most counters open 08:00–20:00 daily | — | — |
| ETUSA Bus Line 100 Bus · Every 30 min | 30-45 min | 20-45 DA |
| ETUSA Bus Line 39 Bus · Every 30 min | 30-45 min | 20-45 DA |
Insider notes
Plan for lengthy baggage and customs clearance upon arrival—traveler reports suggest it can be quite slow.
Utilize the airport rail link for a faster journey to central Algiers, avoiding unpredictable road traffic.
Always agree on the taxi fare upfront to follow local customs and prevent disputes.
Welcome
Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), located 16.9 km east-southeast of central Algiers, serves as a pivotal gateway to North Africa. Not your average "shopping-and-dining" venue, it commands attention for its dedicated rail link and fixed-fare taxi services, clearly prioritizing efficient transit over luxurious lingerings. This practical approach makes it a favored node for many travelers seeking streamlined connectivity, rather than an opulent airport experience.
At a glance
Handling approximately 9.9 million passengers per year, ALG functions primarily through three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 4. Terminal 1 is a hub for Air Algérie and Air France, while Terminal 2 serves Tassili Airlines, and Terminal 4, the newest addition, caters once again to Air Algérie. With two runways accommodating flights, this airport supports both domestic and international travel seamlessly.
Terminals & layout
The airport comprises three terminals with distinct roles. Terminal 1 caters mainly to Air Algérie and Air France flights, providing ample shopping opportunities with options like the Duty Free Shop, a Fashion Boutique, and a Souvenir Shop all located within. Terminal 2 serves as the base for Tassili Airlines and is home to Restaurant Alger and Bar Alger. Lastly, Terminal 4 stands as the modern face of ALG, primarily handling international flights with facilities that include a Snack Bar and a renowned VIP Lounge.
Getting to and from the city
Transport options to the city from ALG are rich in variety yet notably predictable. Taxis, with a travel time of 30-45 minutes, carry a fixed fare of 1200 DA, while the ETUSA Bus Lines 39 and 100 both offer rides for 20-45 DA, taking approximately the same amount of time as a taxi. The Airport Shuttle Service, at only 50 DA, provides budget-friendly access with a journey lasting around 30 minutes. The dedicated airport rail link, a less utilized gem, presents a savvy alternative for slipping past potential road congestion.
Traveller essentials
While ALG may lack the glamour of some larger airports, its provision of practical essentials cannot be ignored. Currency exchange, ATMs, a pharmacy, and tour operator desks ensure that passengers can cover their necessities efficiently. For those needing immediate access to their devices, there’s a Gadget Store on site. Be sure to carry cash for small transactions, as electronic payment facilities might not be universally available or reliable.
Dining & shopping highlights
Dining at Houari Boumediene Airport caters more to functionality than exceptional culinary experiences. Terminal 1 hosts the simple yet satisfactory Café Alger, while Terminal 2 offers a broader palette with Restaurant Alger and Bar Alger. Terminal 4 rounds this off with a conveniently located Snack Bar. Shoppers can explore the Duty Free in Terminal 1 along with an Electronics Store and various other outlets.
Lounges
Passengers seeking extra comfort can frequent several lounges scattered across the airport’s terminals. The Air Algérie Lounge in Terminal 1 is accessible for €30, whereas Terminal 2 boasts the Star Alliance and SkyTeam Lounges at €40 and €35 respectively. Lastly, Terminal 4 offers a more luxurious option with a VIP Lounge charging €50, or the Business Lounge for €45.
Insider tips
- Time: Plan for lengthy baggage and customs clearance upon arrival—traveler reports suggest it can be quite slow.
- Transport Utilize the airport rail link for a faster journey to central Algiers, avoiding unpredictable road traffic.
- Money Always agree on the taxi fare upfront to follow local customs and prevent disputes.
- Cash Keep cash on hand for minor expenses as it's often preferred for transactions at ALG and around Algiers.
- Service Consider meet-and-greet services if you're on a tight schedule or expect large flight volumes, as processing can move slowly.
- Facilities Use terminal-side amenities for essentials; they're more practical than indulgent.
- Smooth Transfer Check for complimentary inter-terminal minibuses if switching between terminals to save time and effort.