Algiers in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Algiers

33°C (91°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

10mm (0.4 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Peak beach weather with minimal rainfall - just 10mm (0.4 inches) and only 10 rainy days make August ideal for coastal activities and outdoor exploration
Perfect Mediterranean climate with 33°C (91°F) highs cooling to comfortable 20°C (68°F) evenings - ideal for day-to-night sightseeing
Summer festival season brings outdoor concerts at Riadh El-Feth and cultural events in Sidi Bou Said district that only happen during peak summer months
Extended daylight hours until 8:30pm allow maximum sightseeing time and evening strolls along the Brazzaville waterfront

Considerations

Peak summer heat makes midday walking tours (11am-4pm) uncomfortable - indoor attractions become essential during hottest hours
Tourist season brings higher accommodation prices (30-40% markup) and advance booking requirements for popular riads and hotels
Sirocco winds from the Sahara can create sudden dust storms lasting 2-3 hours, affecting visibility and outdoor photography

Best Activities in August

Casbah Historical Walking Tours

August's warm evenings are perfect for exploring the UNESCO-listed Casbah after 5pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels. The labyrinthine Ottoman-era streets provide natural shade, and local cafes stay open late serving traditional mint tea. The 70% humidity actually helps preserve the ancient architecture's authentic atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours for early morning (7-10am) or late afternoon (5-8pm) slots. Group tours typically cost 2,000-3,500 DA per person. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed cultural guides - look for official ministry badges. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Mediterranean Beach Excursions

August offers the warmest sea temperatures (24°C/75°F) perfect for swimming and water sports. Minimal rainfall means consistent beach weather, while the UV index of 8 provides excellent tanning conditions with proper protection. Beach clubs extend hours during summer season.

Booking Tip: Day trips to Sidi Fredj or Zeralda beaches cost 1,500-2,800 DA including transport. Book through certified operators 3-5 days ahead during peak season. Private beach access adds 500-800 DA but guarantees umbrellas and chairs. Check booking widget for current beach packages.

Tipaza Archaeological Site Tours

The ancient Roman ruins are spectacular in August's clear weather, with minimal chance of rain disrupting outdoor exploration. Early morning visits (8-11am) offer perfect lighting for photography and comfortable temperatures for the 2km (1.2 miles) walking circuit through amphitheater and basilica ruins.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost 3,000-4,500 DA including transport and guide. UNESCO site requires advance booking during summer - reserve 7-10 days ahead. Tours include air-conditioned transport essential for the 70km (43 miles) journey. Current options available in booking section below.

Traditional Hammam Spa Experiences

August heat makes traditional steam baths incredibly refreshing. Historic hammams in the Casbah offer authentic Ottoman-era bathing rituals using local olive oil soaps. The humid climate enhances the therapeutic benefits of eucalyptus and mint treatments popular during summer months.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammam sessions cost 800-1,500 DA for 90 minutes. Women's and men's schedules vary - book specific time slots 2-3 days ahead. Look for hammams with cultural heritage certification. Luxury spa packages at hotels range 4,000-7,000 DA. See current spa options in booking section.

Bardo Museum Climate-Controlled Tours

Perfect refuge from midday heat while exploring Algeria's premier collection of Roman mosaics and Islamic art. Air-conditioned galleries make August visits comfortable, and summer hours extend until 7pm. The museum's Islamic ceramics collection is particularly impressive under controlled lighting.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 200 DA with guided tours adding 1,000-1,800 DA. Audio guides in multiple languages available for 300 DA. Peak season requires advance booking for English-speaking guides - reserve 4-6 days ahead. Private tours cost 3,500-5,000 DA. Check booking options below.

Sunset Cable Car to Notre Dame d'Afrique

August's late sunsets (around 8:30pm) create spectacular golden hour photography opportunities from the basilica overlooking Algiers Bay. The 400m (1,312 ft) elevation provides cooling breezes and panoramic views enhanced by summer's clear visibility. Evening temperatures drop to perfect comfort levels.

Booking Tip: Cable car operates until 9pm in August - sunset rides are most popular so arrive by 7:30pm. Round-trip costs 150 DA per person. Evening restaurant reservations at the basilica require 3-4 days advance booking during peak season. Current tour packages available in booking section below.

August Events & Festivals

Mid August

Algiers International Festival of Arts and Culture

Annual celebration featuring traditional Chaabi music, contemporary Algerian cinema, and craft exhibitions in the Palais de la Culture. Outdoor evening performances take advantage of August's warm nights and extended daylight hours.

Late August

Festival of Traditional Music at Sidi Abderrahmane

Religious and cultural festival at the historic mausoleum featuring Andalusian music performances and traditional food stalls. The seaside location provides cooling Mediterranean breezes during evening concerts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight linen or cotton long sleeves for Casbah visits - covers shoulders for mosque entry while staying cool in 33°C (91°F) heat

SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and Mediterranean reflection intensifies exposure

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - August has 10 rainy days with sudden afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Casbah's cobblestone streets become slippery when wet from 70% humidity

Breathable cotton underwear and moisture-wicking socks - synthetic materials trap heat in humid conditions

Wide-brimmed hat or cap with chin strap - Sirocco winds can reach 40km/h (25 mph) during dust storms

Portable fan or cooling towels - essential for midday sightseeing when temperatures peak

Modest clothing for religious sites - long pants and covered shoulders required at mosques regardless of heat

Lightweight scarf or shawl - protects from sun during day, provides warmth for evening coastal walks when temperature drops to 20°C (68°F)

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during sudden rain showers and high humidity exposure

Insider Knowledge

Local families flock to coastal areas after 6pm for evening breezes - join them at Sablettes Beach for authentic Algerian beach culture and avoid tourist-heavy daytime crowds

Ramadan occurred in March 2025, so August restaurants operate normal hours - take advantage of extended evening dining on terraces that locals prefer during hot weather

The new Algiers Metro Extension to Dar El Beida Airport opens fully in 2025 - Line 2 now connects downtown to airport in 35 minutes for 50 DA, avoiding taxi surge pricing

August brings fresh fig and date harvests - local markets in Belcourt and Bab El Oued offer seasonal varieties unavailable other months at half the tourist area prices

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor walking tours between 11am-4pm when temperatures peak at 33°C (91°F) - book early morning or evening slots instead

Wearing synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity - cotton and linen are essential for comfort in Algiers' Mediterranean climate

Not carrying cash in smaller denominations - many traditional Casbah shops and local transport don't accept cards or large bills during peak tourist season