Is Atakor Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Atakor, Algeria is a paradise for nature lovers and climbers.

It offers you a unique view of the Sahara, with snowcapped mountains instead of desert dunes.

Before you plan your trip, however, you should know if it’s a safe destination.

Algeria has gotten a bad reputation due to terrorist attacks, but the truth is much more nuanced.

Warnings & Dangers in Atakor

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Atakor, Algeria has a low risk of terrorism, which is prevalent in some areas of the country. The biggest risk in Akator is nature, rather than people. The people here are conservative Muslims, but they are also friendly and welcoming of tourists. The Sahara can be harsh and unforgiving, but there are things you can do to stay safe in this region.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

There are some concerns with transportation in Algeria. There's a very high accident rate here for a few reasons. The roads are overcrowded and not well maintained in some areas. Drivers can be erratic and don't always follow the rules of the road. In recent years, older buses have been retired, which has made traveling by bus a bit safer. However, there are still some older buses in poor condition on the road. Planes are considered safe, but it's an expensive transportation choice. However, it does save a lot of time and provides a comfortable journey. To get to Atakor, you'll need to travel to Tamanrasset. The best option from Tamanrassett is to hire a tour guide, which will provide you with safe transportation to Atakor.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

The risk of pickpocketing in Atakor is low. However, you will have more risk if you are in a city like Tamanrasset. Even in the cities, the risk of pickpocketing is less than that of many Western cities. You can reduce your risk of pickpocketing by not wearing expensive jewelry, wearing a cross-body bag, and not leaving your belongings unattended.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Flooding is very rare in Akator, although it is a concern in other areas of Algeria. The biggest risk in Akator is the extreme temperatures. In the summer, the temperatures can reach dangerous levels. In the winter, temps can drop below freezing, and snowfall can occur. Akator is a volcano, but the risk of an eruption is considered low. There's a small risk of earthquakes, which have occurred in the general area in the past.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

The risk of mugging in Akator is low. Overall crime in Algeria is average when compared to worldwide crime rates. Most crimes are petty crimes, like pickpocketing and theft. While muggings do occur, it's rare here. There's a slightly bigger risk if you are in Tamarrasset, but the risk is still fairly low.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

The risk of terrorism in Akator is considered high. However, this doesn't mean that you are likely to be the victim of a terrorist attack in the area. Terrorist attacks in or around Akator are rare. However, the risk is high compared to other countries, and other areas of Algeria. Terrorist groups typically operate near the borders with Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania. Because the Sahara is so remote, terrorists also operate in the desert. To stay safe in Akator, it's best to work with a local guide. They can help you avoid any potentially dangerous areas that may have terrorists.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

The risk of scams in Akator is low because it's a remote area with a small population. Scams do occur in other areas of Algeria, particularly digital scams and identity theft. Be cautious when in Algeria, and avoid giving anyone your personal information unnecessarily.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Algeria is a Muslim country. Catcalling is common here. In the West, this is seen as disrespectful. However, Algerian men see it as a compliment, rather than as a rude act. Women should travel with a guide or a group of people to reduce their risk of harassment and catcalling. If you are with a man, you'll be treated with respect. If you are alone, you can expect lots of catcalling and open stares. It can be easy to feel fearful in this situation, but the risk beyond catcalling or sexual harassment is very low. Men are extremely unlikely to act physically. They may ask you for a kiss, for example, but they will not attempt to "steal" one.

TAP WATER RISK: HIGH

When you are Atakor, or Algeria in general, you should only drink bottled or purified water. Never drink tap water, especially in rural areas like Akator. You should also avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables, unless they are peeled. Do not order drinks with ice unless the water has been purified. You are unlikely to get seriously ill from the tap water in Atakor, but you can experience mild stomach upset. This can cause diarrhea, which can ruin your trip. Depending on the sterilization procedures, there is a potential of getting very ill.

Safest Places to Visit in Atakor

The most important place to visit in Atakor is the Ahaggar National Park.

The park covers a massive 450,000 square kilometers within the Saharan region.

The city of Tamanrasset is nearby and is the closest populated area.

The Ahaggar Mountains make up most of the park.

The highest peak is Mount Tahat, which is 3,003 meters above sea level.

Ahaggar National Park covers an area of approximately 450,000 square kilometers in the Saharan Algeria Region in the extreme south of the country.

The closest populated area near the park, which lies in a desert mountainous zone, is the oasis city of Tamanrasset.

The Ahaggar Mountains, also known as the Hoggar, dominate the park, with the highest peak being Mount Tahat, measuring 3,003 meters above sea level.

You should also visit the Tin Hinan Tomb.

It was built for Queen Tin Hinan in the 3rd or 4th century.

Her name means “woman of the tents”.

However, it’s often translated to mean “queen of the camp”, and more loosely, to “mother of us all”.

Places to Avoid in Atakor

There aren’t any particular places to avoid in Akator.

However, you shouldn’t explore the area alone.

The desert itself is dangerous, so you should always have a guide when you are exploring here.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Atakor

So... How Safe Is Atakor Really?

Atakor, Algeria, is relatively safe.

While there is a higher than average terrorism risk, the odds of an attack occurring during a visit are very low.

Remember, the biggest danger here is the Sahara, rather than the people that live in the area.

How Does Atakor Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

A visa is required before entering Algeria. Unless you are arriving by cruise ship, you must have a visa before arriving in Algeria. A visa is valid for 6 months.

Currency

The Algerian Dinar is the currency here. Some places will take the British Pound, but few places accept travelers' checks, credit cards, or American dollars. Currency exchange can only be done at banks, so you should exchange currency in Tamarrasset. You can't leave Algeria with Dinars, so keep this in mind when exchanging currency.

Weather

Atakor has a hot desert climate. Rainfall is sparse. Temperatures are moderate in the evenings and night due to the high elevation, so be prepared for hot days and cool nights in the summer. In the winter, temperatures are usually moderate, but it can reach below freezing. Snow can fall in higher elevations.

Airports

You'll want to fly into Algiers. Then, you can take a flight to Tamarrassat. Hadj Bey Akhamok Airport serves Tamarassat and the surrounding area.

Travel Insurance

You should have travel insurance before heading out. This can cover mishaps like canceled flights and lost luggage. You should choose a policy that also includes health coverage in case of an emergency.

Atakor Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Algeria - Safety by City