Biskra Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Biskra is a working oasis city rather than a polished resort, and its charm lies in palm gardens, desert light and the landscapes all around it.

• Palm groves of the Zibans — Walk or drive through the oases that produce Algeria’s celebrated Deglet Nour dates.
• Jardin Landon — A historic garden of palms and exotic trees, a shady retreat close to the centre.
• Sidi Okba — A nearby town whose old mosque holds the tomb of Uqba ibn Nafi, one of the oldest Islamic sites in the Maghreb.
• El Kantara gorge — A narrow pass to the north long called the gateway to the Sahara, with a palm-filled valley beyond.
• Hammam Salihine — Hot springs on the edge of the city, popular with local families.
• Ghoufi balconies — A canyon of abandoned cliff villages in the Aurès, reachable on a day trip.

Biskra has a hot desert climate with very little rain. Summers are long and extremely hot, with afternoon temperatures often above 40°C, while winters are mild and sunny, with cool nights.

The most pleasant time to visit is from October to April, when days are comfortable for exploring palm groves, gorges and nearby villages. The date harvest in autumn is a lively season in the oases. In summer, keep sightseeing to early morning and evening.

Biskra Mohamed Khider Airport is a small regional airport a short drive from the city centre, handling mainly domestic flights. There is no rail or metro connection to the terminal.

Taxis are the most convenient way into town, and many hotels will arrange a pick-up if you ask in advance. If the taxi has no meter, agree the fare before setting off. For excursions to El Kantara, Sidi Okba or the Aurès, hiring a car with a local driver is usually the most practical choice.

Biskra is compact, and most visitors stay near the centre and travel out to the oases and gorges by car.

• City centre — Close to markets, cafés and transport; the best base for first-time visitors.
• Main boulevards — Larger hotels that suit business travellers and groups.
• Hammam Salihine area — A quieter setting for those who want to be near the hot springs.

• Money: Carry Algerian dinars in cash and exchange through official channels; card payments are limited.
• Getting around: Use taxis in town and hire a car with a driver for day trips into the oases and mountains.
• Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially in villages and at religious sites, and ask before photographing people.
• Health: Drink plenty of water, wear a hat and use sun protection, even in winter.
• Language: Arabic is the main language; French is widely understood, English much less so.