Botanical Garden Hamma: A Verdant Oasis in Algiers
Discover a world of flora and fauna at Algiers' historic Botanical Garden Hamma, a serene escape in the heart of the city.
The Botanical Garden Hamma, also known as Jardin d'Essai du Hamma, is a 32-hectare (79-acre) botanical garden located in the Mohamed Belouizdad district of Algiers. Established in 1832 by French colonial authorities, it served as a test garden for acclimating plant species to Algeria's Mediterranean climate. Over time, it evolved into a renowned botanical center, housing over 1,200 plant species from five continents. The garden is divided into several sections, including a French garden with a majestic avenue of palm trees, an English garden with a large pond, and an experimental part with greenhouses. Visitors can admire century-old trees, rare plants, and exotic landscapes. The garden also features a zoo and art museums. Beyond its botanical significance, the Jardin d'Essai du Hamma is a popular relaxation spot for locals and tourists alike. Its vast lawns, shaded paths, and numerous fountains provide a peaceful escape from the city. The garden has also made its mark on cinema, with the famous 1932 film “Tarzan” partially filmed here. After Algeria's independence in 1962, the garden was nationalized and remains a favored site for researchers and visitors. Following a period of closure for restoration, it reopened in 2009 and now welcomes over 900,000 visitors annually.
Local tips
- Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and beautiful blooms.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the vast garden.
- Bring cash for the entrance fee, as credit cards may not be accepted.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
- Consider hiring a guide for insights into the garden's history.
A brief summary to Botanical Garden Hamma
- Rue Mohamed Belouizdad, Mohamed Belouizdad, Algiers, DZ
- +213770080951
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From the Alger Centre, take the Line 1 subway from Tafourah - Grande Poste station to Jardin d'essai station. The subway departs every 5 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 3 minutes. Alternatively, take bus line 178 from Gare Routiere to Chemin Fernane Hanafi. The bus departs every 30 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 5 minutes. Subway and bus fares are typically around 30 DZD.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Algiers. From the city center, a taxi ride to the Botanical Garden Hamma typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares range from 400-600 DZD, but it's best to negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Tipping is not customary.
-
Walking
From the Kasbah area, walk down Boulevard des Martyrs for about 1.5 km. The entrance to the Botanical Garden Hamma will be on your right, just before the intersection with Rue Mohamed Belouizdad. The walk takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
