Biskra

Algeria · Africa

About Biskra

Biskra (Arabic: بسكرة, romanized: Biskra, Tamazight: ⴱⵉⵙⴽⵔⴰ, romanized: Biksra) is the main city of Zibans region and administratively capital city of Biskra Province in Algeria. In 2007, its population was recorded as 307,987. Biskra is located in northeastern Algeria, about 248 miles (399 km) from Algiers, 71 miles (114 km) southwest of Batna and 137 miles (220 km) north of Touggourt. It is nicknamed "The Queen of the Zibans", "The Door of the Desert" or "The Saharan Nice" because of its location at the beginning of the Sahara Desert. Due to its geographical location, its climate and natural resources, particularly farming, Biskra has always been a crossroad between the cities in the north and south. It has seen the passage of several civilizations, from the Romans and the Arabs to the French.

In 1844, Biskra became a French garrison, which saw fighting during rebellions in 1849 and 1871.

Currently the city of Biskra has 28 neighborhoods, including the three principal neighborhoods of Korra, City 60 Logements, and Equipment Zones. It is in the southern part of the Algerian rail system, and has become a popular winter resort.

Biskra travel guide

Understand

Biskra is the capital city of Biskra Province, Algeria. In 2007, its population was recorded as 307,987. Biskra is located in northeastern Algeria, about 248 miles from Algiers, 71 miles southwest of Batna and 137 miles north of Touggourt.

Getting there

By plane Only two airlines Tassili airlines and Air Algerie operate to Biskra and serve international destinations. Air Algerie: Algiers, Lyon, Paris CDG and ORLY. Tassili: Algiers

Getting around

Walking If you aren't in a hurry, walking around the area of City Center, the Universities, and the local shops/ bazaar is easy and pleasant.

Public transportation Best ways to get around the city is with public transport (Bus, Trams, And Trains).

Taxis Taxis are also a good way of transportation because they offer more destinations. but they’re more expensive than public transportation.

See

Biskra is stunning because of its beautiful nature. And there are a lot of sights to see. Most popular ones are:

Les gorges d'El Kantara: Historical landmark in El Kantara. Musée lapidaire d'El Kantara: An open museum.

Do

Biskra has a lot of water parks, Most in the country. Most popular and top rated ones are:

Les Jardins des Ziban. Aqua Palm Biskra. Jardin Landon.

Buy

Biskra’s date is one of The best in the world. And buying date here worth the money. Biskra’s date is being sold in some popular countries such as United States, Italy, And France.

Eat

Biskra’s couscous is one of the best in the country. It’s flavorful, healthy, and delicious. It’s usually served with vegetables like chickpea, carrots, and potatoes. And also served with meat. Cafeterias in Biskra serve a lot of desserts and fruits. From French desserts like Millefeuille and Lemon Tart to Turkish desserts like Baklava and Turkish delights to Algerian dessert like Kalb-el-louz and Griwech.

Drink & nightlife

Eating a dessert isn’t complete without the Algerian tea (Atay). It can come as either sweet or bitter. And it can keep you awake too when working at late nights or early morning.

Overview adapted from Wikipedia, travel guide fromWikivoyage (CC BY-SA)。Photography via Wikimedia Commons.