Located in Northern Africa, on the edge of the Sahara, Algeria is home to beautiful vistas and cultural treasures. Among these are the coastal capital of Algiers, plenty of Roman ruins and a UNESCO World Heritage city, Constantine.
Listed in BBC Travel’s top 20 places to travel in 2026, recent changes allowing a visa on arrival have made it easier to travel to Algeria. The Algerian government is actively encouraging more tourists to come and enjoy the country’s cultural heritage.
The UK government advises talking to a healthcare professional, such as a pharmacist, at least eight weeks before travel to discuss any vaccination or medication needs.
People should always keep up to date with routine travel vaccinations recommended for the UK. This includes the COVID-19 and tuberculosis jabs.
What vaccination certificates are required for Algeria?
Travel beyond the UK often requires proof of additional vaccinations, regardless of the risk level for those countries. Algeria’s required certificates are designed to prevent transmission across borders.
Yellow fever
While there is no current risk of Yellow fever in Algeria, you may need a certificate to say you are vaccinated against it. This is required for anyone aged over nine months who is arriving from or has travelled through a country at risk of Yellow Fever.
Polio
Algeria is not a high risk for polio, however, countries around it do still have outbreaks. Travellers may need to show proof of a polio vaccination at least four weeks before you leave Algeria. If you do not have proof, you may be vaccinated before you leave.
What other vaccinations are recommended for Algeria?
Hepatitis A
Contaminated food or water, or contact with an infected person, is how Hepatitis A is contracted. The viral infection can take weeks or months to recover from symptoms, but the vaccination can give lifelong protection.
Tetanus
In the UK, a tetanus vaccination is usually scheduled every ten years. Tetanus is a bacterial infection usually contracted via unclean open wounds, scratches or burns. If you are unsure when your last tetanus shot was given you may need a booster.
Rabies
Some domestic dogs and bats in Algeria have been found to carry the rabies virus. The virus is transmitted through bites or through infected dogs licking scratches. A vaccination is recommended, particularly for children who are likely to come into contact with animals.
Tuberculosis
Often shortened to TB, tuberculosis affects the lungs and throat. The majority of school children in the UK will have received a BCG vaccination for it.
Tuberculosis remains a problem in Algeria and it is recommended to avoid close contact with those who have infectious pulmonary disease.
Typhoid fever
Typhoid is transmitted through contaminated food and water. People with access to safe food and water are less at risk; in areas with less sanitation vaccinations are recommended.
Are there any other health risks for visiting Algeria?
High altitudes
While the capital is a seaside town, some parts of Algeria are at high altitude, causing a risk of altitude sickness for people not acclimatised. Advice on altitude sickness medications can be given by a pharmacist.
Food and water hygiene
Whenever travelling, always consider food and water hygiene to reduce the risk of contracting bacterial infections and stomach bugs. Drink bottled water and practice caution around street food stalls.
Don’t miss out on the amazing historical sights and culture of Algeria by becoming unwell on your travels. Talk to us about a travel clinic appointment to discuss how you can stay safe on holiday.