Algeria has an extensive network of railway lines in the north of the country. Train travel in Algeria is a good way to explore the country – modern trains connect the largest cities in the north of the country. There are a total more of 4,560 km standard gauge lines, many of them are used for freight transport only. The construction of the new railway lines is underway.
Last updated: 29.01.2024
The first railway in Algeria, connected Alger with Blida (28 km) was opened on 8 September 1862. Between 1857 and 1878 was constructed a total 1,365 km of railway lines.
In 1946, Algeria’s has a total of 5,014 km (3,116 mi) of active railway lines and mine lines.
After 1980 were launched large investment programs for modernisation of existing railway lines and construction of the new lines. Many train stations all over the country were modernised or reconstructed.
Train travel in Algeria – current situation
There are many passenger trains in Algeria. Both freight and passenger trains are operated by state-owned Société Nationale des Transports Ferroviaire (SNTF). You can choose between old suburban trains and long-distance trains. Most suburban trains are old and neglected, but most of long-distance trains are modern and equipped with air conditioning. Tickets are cheap.
Most popular routes:
Algiers – Oran – daytime trains, 4 trains daily
Algiers – Constantine – daytime trains twice a day and overnight train
Algiers – Annaba – overnight train
Oran – Bechare
Oran – Ghazaouet
Moulay Slissen – Saida
Société Nationale des Transports Ferroviaire (SNTF)(may work or not)
Map of railway network in Algeria (Wikipedia)
International trains:
Algeria has railway links to Morocco and Tunisia. Land border with Morocco is closed. Situation on the border with Tunisia is unclear. According to various timetables there is passenger train from Souk Ahras to Sidi el Hémissi. Passengers have to make their own way between the stations of Sidi el Hémissi, Algeria and Ghardimaou Heure de Tunis in Tunisia. From Ghardimaou Heure de Tunis run passengers trains to Tunis, but I can’t confirm it.
There were plans to start a direct passenger train from Tunis to Annaba, but plan failed.
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