Algeria has about fifty islands along its coastline. These islands are not very hospitable to housing and most of them do not exceed one hectare in area. As a result, they are little known to the general public. However, these islands are of significant scientific interest. They are considered an open-air laboratory for studying evolutionary, biogeographical, and maritime processes. Here are the TOP 5 most beautiful islands on the Algerian coast that you must visit.
Cavallo Islands
The Cavallo Islands are a set of uninhabited islets located in the commune of El Aouana, in the wilaya of Jijel. The group consists of two main islands: Small Cavallo, with an area of 4 hectares, and Large Cavallo, with an area of 6 hectares. They are situated 5 km northeast and 950 m north of El Aouana, respectively.
The vegetation cover on both islands is quite dense, and the relief is mainly rocky, supporting many plant species. The islands are home to the yellow-legged gull, a bird species that thrives there.
Two Brothers Islands
In the past, the Romans named these two islands “Ad Fratres,” which simply means the two brothers. These small rocky islets are located in the commune of Ghazaouet, in the wilaya of Tlemcen, in the far west of Algeria. They form an island group very similar to the Nordic islands.
The island of the two brothers in Ghazaouet (Tlemcen)
Habibas Islands
Located 9.8 km off the coast of Oran, in the municipality of Ain El Kerma, opposite the famous Madagh beach, the Habibas Islands are the only archipelago in the country. The two largest islands are surrounded by many rocks, with the larger one called Touria. Touria is 1,200 m long, 160 to 600 m wide, and its summit reaches 103 m above sea level, crowned by a lighthouse.
The second, smaller island is located northeast of the larger one. To the west is Morte Creek, where the remains of a Spanish woman were discovered. Since 2003, the islands have been classified as a Maritime Nature Reserve by UNESCO and as a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance.
The Habibas Islands in Oran
Pisan Island
Pisan Island is located northwest of Béjaia, off the coast of Boulimat. According to local legend, Emir Al Nacir died there. The island was a meeting place for merchants from Europe, especially Italy, and the ancient tribe of the Mezaia, where important goods were traded.
The island of the Pisans in Béjaia
Île Srigina
Srigina is an island located at the western entrance to the harbour of Skikda, in the east of the country. Its name is said to be of Punic origin, meaning the cape of the cove.
Srigina Island to Skikda
The island is home to a lighthouse built in 1890 and commissioned in 1906. With its small area, it can only accommodate a very limited number of visitors. Its quay can handle a maximum of two pleasure boats.
