× title-placeholder message-placeholder 🛖 TakeYourBackpack.com find your next backpacking destination covering all countries in the world extensive info per country personal stories and photos learn how to backpack like a pro Skip to main content home advisor destinations Africa Asia Europe North America South America Oceania All countries Where to go? inspiration Photos & stories World cities Famous hikes National parks Best beaches Famous festivals World wonders UNESCO sites All highlights planning search bucketlist Algeria 🇩🇿 Djebel Chelia Hike the Djebel Chelia, Algeria. Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Atlas Mountains Explore Djurdjura National Park Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Algeria | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Djebel Chelia Djebel Chelia is a gem in Algeria, offering stunning views of lush valleys and rugged peaks, but it’s not without its quirks. The hike stretches around 15 kilometers and can be pretty challenging, especially if you’re not used to steep ascents and rocky paths. Getting to the trailhead isn’t a breeze; public transport options are limited, so be prepared for a bit of a trek just to start your adventure. Compared to other hikes in the region, like the more popular Tassili n’Ajjer, Chelia feels less crowded, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery without the hustle. Just keep an eye on the weather—Algeria can surprise you! Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Algeria Travel Guide . Best time to go: March – May, September – November Duration: 2 to 3 days Distance: 20 kilometers Total ascent: 1,200 meters Get your Algeria Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Djebel Chelia Algeria Grab your own Travelguide for only Summit panorama from Djebel Chelia (≈2,328 m) — The high point of the Aurès gives a raw, wide-angle view you don’t get on lower Algerian treks: sweeping ridges, the patchwork of terraces down in the valleys, and on a clear day the beginning of the Sahara steppe. It’s a summit with real payoff for the climb — empty, windy and unforgettable. Rugged ridgelines and limestone escarpments — Sharp crests, rocky buttresses and steep gullies make the terrain dramatic and varied; you’ll be scrambling, contouring and dropping into mini-amphitheaters that feel far more alpine than desert. The geology gives the hike texture — not just a walk, but a proper mountain route. Traditional Chaoui villages and terraced fields — Scattered stone hamlets (think flat-roof houses and dry-stone walls) dot the lower flanks. Walking through them offers a real cultural counterpoint to the wilderness: shepherds, terraces carved into the slope, and a chance to taste simple mountain fare or trade a few words with locals. Spring meadows and aromatic mountain flora — After winter snows the bowls and hollows light up with wildflowers and hardy herbs — thyme, sage and other scented plants that make the air smell good when you stop for a break. That sudden contrast — green carpets surrounded by rocky slopes — is what makes Chelia visually special in season. Birds of prey and shy mountain fauna — The area is good for raptors (griffon-type vultures and eagles are often seen riding the thermals) and you may spot signs of Barbary sheep or other mountain ungulates. Wildlife encounters here are quieter and rarer than busy parks — which is exactly why they feel rewarding. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town unique site national park hike beach festival show all 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Djebel Chelia Hiking Djebel Chelia is an awesome experience, but timing is everything. The best months to hit the trails are typically from late spring to early autumn—think May to October. During this window, temperatures are usually more manageable. In May, you can expect highs around 20-25°C (68-77°F), which is pretty pleasant for hiking. By July and August, though, it can get toasty, often reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F) or even higher. If you’re not a fan of sweating buckets, aim for early mornings or late afternoons, especially in the summer. The evenings can cool down nicely, dropping to around 15-20°C (59-68°F), making for a comfy hike back down. Pro tip: Always check the local weather forecast before you head out. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so being prepared can save you a lot of hassle. And don’t forget to pack plenty of water—stay hydrated out there! JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC © Google 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Djebel Chelia If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Algeria Best quality hotels in Algeria 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Djebel Chelia Total Distance: The Djebel Chelia trail spans approximately 17 kilometers (about 10.5 miles) round trip, making it a solid day hike. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 6 to 8 hours on the trail. This includes time for breaks and enjoying the views, so take your time! Difficulty Level: This trail is rated as moderate to challenging. While the path can be well-defined, it does have steep sections that may require some scrambling, especially near the summit. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the village of Khenchela. To get there by public transport, take a bus or shared taxi … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Djebel Chelia trail spans approximately 17 kilometers (about 10.5 miles) round trip, making it a solid day hike. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 6 to 8 hours on the trail. This includes time for breaks and enjoying the views, so take your time! Difficulty Level: This trail is rated as moderate to challenging. While the path can be well-defined, it does have steep sections that may require some scrambling, especially near the summit. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the village of Khenchela. To get there by public transport, take a bus or shared taxi from Algiers to Khenchela. Once in Khenchela, you can catch a local taxi to the trailhead. Major Landmarks Along the Route: First Summit: The first notable viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains. Waterfall: Midway through the hike, you’ll find a small waterfall that’s perfect for a refreshing break. Summit of Djebel Chelia: At the top, enjoy panoramic views that stretch for miles; on a clear day, you can see the Sahara in the distance. Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of rocky paths, dirt trails, and some exposed sections. The scenery is breathtaking, with rugged mountains, lush valleys, and occasional patches of pine and oak forests. Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: Vegetation: Expect to see a range of flora, including wild thyme, various grasses, and hardy shrubs. Wildlife: Keep an eye out for birds like the Bonelli’s eagle and maybe even some small mammals like foxes or hares if you’re lucky. This trail offers a great mix of challenge and beauty, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Algeria’s stunning landscapes. ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Algeria Travel Guide Discover the best Algeria has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Algeria 166 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 79 must-see highlights ✅ 21-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore all what Algeria has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Algiers, Oran, Constantine , see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Djanet, Timimoun, In Salah , see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Sahara Desert, Kasbah of Algiers, Ancient ruins of Djemila, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : Ahaggar, Tassili n’Ajjer, Djurdjura , see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Hoggar Mountains, Djebel Chelia, Djurdjura Mountains, see all 🏖️ Beaches        Compare the top best beaches : Plage de Tipaza, Plage Clovis, Plage de Sidi Fredj, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : International of the Sahara, DimaJazz, Timgad International Music , see all Explore Algeria ✈️ Ready to Go? Djebel Chelia FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Algeria The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Algeria Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Djebel Chelia? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Algeria Best quality hotels in Algeria What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Algeria? Algeria’s climate can be a bit of a rollercoaster, so pack with variety in mind. In the north, expect Mediterranean vibes—hot, dry summers and rainy winters. But if you’re heading south to the Sahara, brace for extreme heat during the day and surprisingly chilly nights. Terrain-wise, you’ll find everything from beaches to mountains, so sturdy footwear is a must. Culturally, modest dress is key, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Think long sleeves and pants or skirts that cover the knees. Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Algeria. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts If you’re heading to Djebel Chelia, brace yourself for some breathtaking views and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. The best surprise? Stumbling upon those hidden waterfalls—it’s like nature’s secret reward after a tough hike. Just a heads up: the weather can change on a dime, so pack layers. Trust me, you’ll want to be ready for anything! 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 19 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript