Women only tour of Algeria

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Shared group transport is used throughout the itinerary for transfers and overland travel between Algiers, Bejaia, Djemila and Constantine. Travelling together in a single vehicle significantly reduces emissions per person compared with multiple individual transfers.

The itinerary incorporates several low impact, human powered activities. Travellers explore the Casbah of Algiers on foot, walk through the historic streets of Ghardaïa and Beni Isguen in the M’zab Valley, and undertake a short walk in Yemma Gouraya National Park. These walking based visits reduce the need for additional motorised transport while offering a more immersive experience.

Local cuisine forms an important part of the programme, including a hands on preparation of traditional Algerian mhadjeb. Meals throughout the itinerary are typically based on regional dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and vegetarian options can generally be accommodated, which can help reduce the carbon impact associated with imported foods.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

The itinerary includes time in Yemma Gouraya National Park near Bejaia, a protected coastal mountain environment. Visiting designated viewpoints and staying on established paths helps minimise environmental impact while supporting the value of protected natural areas through tourism.

Exploration in the M’zab Valley is largely undertaken on foot within historic settlements such as El Atteuf and Beni Isguen. This reduces environmental disturbance in a fragile desert environment while supporting communities that have lived sustainably in this landscape for centuries.

Local guides are used throughout the tour, helping ensure visitors understand how to behave responsibly in cultural and natural environments. Guidance is provided on respecting local ecosystems, staying on marked routes, and minimising waste when visiting sensitive sites.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Several accommodations used on this itinerary are locally owned or operated, including guesthouse style properties such as Tezribt Guest House in Ghardaïa, which provides a more personal stay within the M’zab Valley and supports locally run hospitality businesses. Even where international brand hotels are used in larger cities, the majority of staff employed are local residents.

The itinerary intentionally incorporates locally led experiences that generate income within the community. Travellers take part in a pottery workshop with local artisans and a traditional cooking experience preparing mhadjeb, supporting small scale craftspeople and food producers.

Local guides are employed throughout the journey in Algiers, Constantine, and the M’zab Valley, ensuring tourism revenue directly benefits Algerian professionals and their communities. The visit to Ghardaïa’s traditional carpet market also supports local traders and craft traditions that remain an important part of the regional economy.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

The vast majority of staff involved in delivering the tour are Algerian nationals, including guides, drivers, artisans, hospitality workers, and restaurant staff. Using local professionals ensures that tourism income remains within the country and supports employment in the regions visited.

This itinerary includes experiences designed to support women’s economic participation, including the traditional cooking activity and cultural encounters that highlight women’s roles in Algerian culinary and craft traditions. These activities help provide income opportunities for local women involved in cultural heritage and artisan skills.

Local operating partners are expected to comply with national labour regulations, including paying staff at least the minimum wage and providing fair working conditions. The tour also promotes respectful cultural exchange and inclusivity by encouraging travellers to engage with local communities, traditions, and heritage in a responsible and culturally sensitive manner.