Algeria

Brief History

Algeria's rail transportation has roots dating back to the French colonial era in the 19th century. However, true development began after the country's independence in 1962. From that time until the 1980s, intensive electrification and modernization of the railway network took place. In the 1990s, reform of the system began to improve efficiency, and in the 2000s new high-speed trains were introduced and infrastructure modernization work was carried out. Today, Algeria's rail transport continues to develop rapidly in an effort to provide a modern and convenient transportation service for the population.

General Information and Statistics

The rail network is operated by the national rail transportation company (SNTF). This network has more than 200 stations, covering mainly the north of the country.. In 2020, the number of passengers expressed in millions of passenger-kilometers was 348 million passenger-kilometers

The length of railway tracks in Algeria is 4,560 kilometers, of which 480 km are electrified (10.53%).

What connections to other countries there are.

There are international connections (currently used only for cargo transportation) with Morocco and Tunisia.

Are trains fast in Algeria in general? How much time to cross the country?

The new Coradia omnibus train in Algeria is a major achievement in the country's rail system. With its versatility, the train operates in both diesel and electric modes, reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h. With a length of 110 meters and consisting of 6 carriages, it can accommodate up to 254 passengers, including 60 seats in first class. 
The journey from Algiers to Bechar takes 15:25 hours and from Tlemcen to Annaba 18:30 hours.

What railway companies are available?

Algeria has one main railroad company: Société Nationale des Transports Ferroviaires (SNTF). This is Algeria's national railroad company, responsible for operating and maintaining the country's railroad network. SNTF operates passenger and freight transportation on various routes throughout Algeria.

What train types are available in Algeria?

There are different types of trains available in Algeria for different purposes and services:
    • Magistral Alstom Coradia: Alstom Coradia mainline trains, which can refer to high-speed or mainline intercity trains, offering efficient and versatile transportation options.
    • Régional CAF TDMD S/599: Regional CAF TDMD S/599 trains, referring to regional or suburban trains designed to serve short-distance routes within specific regions.
    • Stadler FLIRT commuter rail: Stadler FLIRT trains operating on suburban or commuter rail lines, providing convenience of travel for daily commuters.
    • EMD GM GT26HCW2A locomotive with freight: EMD GM GT26HCW2A locomotive with freight, demonstrating the ability to transport freight on the rail network.
    • Locomotive GT36HCW with wagons: Locomotive GT36HCW with accompanying wagons, demonstrating the versatility of locomotives designed for different types of services.
    • Freight Train: A general designation for freight trains transporting goods and commodities over a variety of routes.
These types of trains represent the diverse range of rail services available in Algeria, catering to both passenger and freight traffic.

Are there high-speed-trains available in Algeria?

The new Coradia mainline train is the fastest train in Algeria at the moment, with a speed of 160 km/h. So compared to train speeds in France or Japan, there are no high-speed trains in Algeria.

Most important train stations / hubs.

The main railway stations in Algeria are Algiers, Oran, Annaba, Bejaia.

Websites to buy train tickets for Algeria?

www.sntf.dz

Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Algeria?

SNTF is the official app of the National Railway Company of Algeria for Android devices

Possible to buy a ticket at Algeria railway station?

Travel reservations for organized groups are made directly at the train stations, eight (08) days prior to the departure date;( therefore, tickets can be purchased at the train station)

Can I buy my ticket by phone?

No information about the possibility to buy a ticket by phone call was found

Return the ticket.

Tickets that are not used in whole or in part may be refunded, provided that they are annotated with a note indicating that they have not been used at the departure station or that the journey has been interrupted before the period of validity expires.

Train ticket prices.

Traveling by train in Algeria is cost-effective and convenient. Here are some tips:
    • Book your tickets well in advance - it can save you money.
    • Avoid peak hours to get better prices.
Long trips can also be affordable and economical.
Example route: B17 Main line
Departure: ALGIERS (AGHA) at 10:35 a.m.
Arrival: ORAN at 15:10
1st class price: EUR 10.30
2nd class price: DZD 7.60 euros

Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?

There are international connections (currently used only for cargo transportation) with Morocco and Tunisia.

Where to find timetables?

Find train schedules on https://www.sntf.dz/index.php?option=com_sntf&view=train

Buying tickets in advance or right before the train

When buying train tickets in Algeria, it is important to note that you can purchase tickets up to 30 minutes before the train departs. This gives passengers flexibility and the ability to plan their travel closer to the time of departure. However, to ensure a guaranteed seat during peak periods and for greater certainty, it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance. This approach is particularly useful when traveling during times of high demand and for those who wish to pre-plan their journey.

Types of tickets

Algeria trains provide a variety of ticket types to suit the needs of different passengers. Here are some of them:
    • One-way ticket: Allows one trip on a specific route. It is suitable for one-way travel.
    • Round-trip ticket (Round-Trip ticket): Allows you to travel in one direction and return on the same route.
    • Travel Cards: Cards with a certain number of trips or validity time that provide discounts. May include "Regular Subscriptions", "Suburban Week Subscription", etc.
    • Special Cards (Special Cards): Provide discounts and benefits for specific categories of passengers, such as the "Youth Card" or "3rd Age Card" for seniors.
    • Group Tickets: Provide discounts for groups traveling together.

Interrail/Eurail Passes in Algeria

Interrail/Eurail Passes are not available

Saver price

Unfortunately, there are currently no tickets available for Algiers with similar "Saver price" terms and conditions.

Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?

A 20% discount is provided, which is valid for 02 months when buying a round-trip ticket and when traveling more than 200 km.

Flexible tickets.

Unfortunately, there are also currently no tickets available for Algeria with similar Flexible Tickets (analogous to "Flexible Tickets").

Rules of boarding.

To obtain a ticket booked online, the passenger will need to present a valid ID card.

Discounts for group travel.

Group travel is a great way to save money and enjoy traveling with friends or a team.
    • Regular Groups: If you travel in a group of 10 or more people on an itinerary of 300km or more, you can get 30% off.
    • Sports Groups: Sports events have discounts of 30%, 40% or 50% depending on the size of the group.
    • Camps: Groups of 10 people or more can also benefit from special discounts.

Age groups and discounts.

Travelers of different age groups can take advantage of special discounts that will enhance their rail travel experience.
    • Children: Children under the age of 4 can travel free of charge when accompanied by an adult, and children between the ages of 4 and 12 are entitled to a 50% discount on fares.
    • Youth: Young travelers between the ages of 15 and 28 can enjoy a 20% discount on ticket purchases with a "Youth Card" (Carte Jeune) valid for one year.
    • Pensioners: Passengers aged 55 years and over for women and 60 years and over for men can benefit from a 20% discount on rail tickets.
    • Families: Families with at least three children under the age of 18 can apply for a "Carte Famille Nombreuse" ("Large Family Card") and receive a 30% discount on second class travel.

Age limitations for minors.

There is no information that children can travel unaccompanied on Algerian trains

Handicapped passengers.

The railcars and rehabilitated long-distance trains are equipped with sanitary facilities to meet passenger needs. These are designed for ease of access, even for the elderly, pregnant women and the disabled, as well as doors with visual occupancy indication and infrared lighting inside and out.

Seat reservations in Algerian trains.

Passengers can enjoy the opportunity to reserve a seat for a comfortable and relaxing journey. Simply report to the departure station at least 30 minutes before the train's departure with your ID card to receive your ticket and take your seat.

Comfort classes on the trains.

Two classes of comfort are available on SNTF trains:

    • First Class: Provides comfort and style. Great for business class passengers, diplomats and embassy representatives. Includes comfortable seats, passenger notifications, automatic door opening, ventilation, area for passengers with reduced mobility, steward and stewardess service.

    • Second Class: Provides comfort and safety for all passengers. Includes various amenities such as USB charging ports, comfortable seats, ventilation and reading lights.

Food and drink in Algerian trains / train restaurant.

At most SNTF stations and in the dining cars of long-distance trains (mainline and regional), passengers are offered kiosk stalls where they can get refreshments or a quick snack.
Catering service is provided in the form of station lunches or mobile shopping carts offering hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and sweets......
Passengers are also provided free of charge with tea, mineral water, newspapers, breakfast and napkins (in high comfort trains and couchettes) depending on the class.
Box lunches and hot meals are offered on long-distance trains, while on organized trips the required number of lunches is served by order of the SNTF Rail-Service branch.

Night trains in Algeria?

Night trains are returning to Algeria after a long hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. In a press release, the National Society of Railways (SNTF) announced the resumption of sleeper night trains as of Sunday, November 21, 2021.

Important train routes in Algeria.

AUGUST 2023
Algiers - Oran / from 4:00 hours / from 6,05 EUR / 5 trains a day
Algiers - Constantine / 6:50 hours / from 4,50 EUR / 1 train a day
Algiers - Annaba / 9:38 hours / from 6,05 EUR / 1 train a day
Algiers - Bejaia/ 6:00 hours / from 5,20 EUR / 2 trains a day
Algeria - Setif / from 4:21 hours / from 2,95 EUR / 4 trains a day
Oran to Bechar /from 8:51 hours / from 6,55 EUR / 2 trains a day
Oran - Tlemcen/  2:32 hours / from 1,25 EUR / 2 trains a day

International train routes.

There are international connections (currently used only for cargo transportation) with Morocco and Tunisia.

Tourist / scenic routes in Algeria.

Algeria offers several scenic and tourist-friendly rail routes that allow travelers to experience its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Some of the notable tourist and scenic rail routes in Algeria include:

    • Hammam Guergour Tourist Train (Train Touristique Hammam Guergour):
This route runs between Algiers and Hammam Guergour, offering passengers stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, picturesque scenery and charming villages.

    • Train Touristique El Kantara (Train Touristique El Kantara):
This train runs between Constantine and Batna and offers passengers a scenic journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Aures Mountains and the historic El Kantara Gorge.

    • Desert Tourist Train (Train Touristique du Désert):
This unique route takes travelers on a journey through Algeria's mesmerizing desert landscapes, showcasing the beauty of the Sahara Desert and its vast dunes.

    • Train Touristique Gouffre de Chiffa (Train Touristique Gouffre de Chiffa):
This route runs from Algiers to Tetiet el Had. It offers breathtaking views of the Chiffa Gorge, a natural wonder known for its breathtaking cliffs and lush greenery.

    • Train Touristique Tlemcen (Train Touristique Tlemcen):
Running between Oran and Tlemcen, this route allows passengers to experience the rich history and architectural wonders of Tlemcen, a UNESCO-listed city.

    • Train Touristique Sidi M'Hamed Benali (Train Touristique Sidi M'Hamed Benali):
Running between Algiers and Tenia, this train travels through the picturesque plain of Mitidja and allows you to see the traditional Algerian countryside.

Luggage information.

You can take luggage on the train. There are no size and weight standards on the official website. 
On-board staff are usually more lenient with baggage allowances.

Bicycle on the train.

No information about the ability to take your bike on the train was found

Ski or snowboard on the train.

No information about the possibility of taking skis/snowboards on the train was found

Luggage lockers on the stations in Algeria.

No information available on the availability of lockers at stations in Algeria

Lost and Found Items.

There is no official lost and found service on SNTF trains.

Pets on the trains.

There is no information about the possibility to transport pets on SNTF trains.