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El Kala National Park: Algeria's Coastal Gem

Explore Algeria's El Kala National Park: a biodiverse haven of forests, lakes, and coastlines, perfect for nature and adventure lovers.

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El Kala National Park, located in Algeria's northeastern corner, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including lakes, forests, and coastal dunes. Established in 1983, the park offers a sanctuary for a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for ecotourism and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to El Kala National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially in the wetland areas.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and navigate the park's trails.
  • Pack water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike, as facilities within the park may be limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From major towns in the High Plateaus, take a bus or shared taxi to El Tarf. From El Tarf, a local taxi to the park entrance (J7VP+MQG) takes about 15-20 minutes. Confirm the taxi fare beforehand, as prices may vary; expect to pay around 300-500 DZD.

  • Car

    From the High Plateaus, drive towards El Tarf. In El Tarf, follow the D102 road towards J7VP+MQG. The drive from El Tarf to the park entrance takes approximately 30 minutes through scenic landscapes. Road signs may be limited, so using a GPS is recommended.

  • Walking

    If already in El Tarf, you can walk to El Kala National Park. Head southeast on Boulevard de la Libération, then turn left onto Rue du 1er Novembre. Continue until you reach the park entrance at J7VP+MQG. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers and takes about 30-40 minutes.

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Discover more about El Kala National Park

El Kala National Park, situated in the Wilaya of El Tarf in northeastern Algeria, is a captivating mosaic of landscapes, stretching across 76,000 hectares. Established in 1983 and recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1990, the park protects a unique and vulnerable ecosystem within the Mediterranean Basin. The park's diverse topography encompasses mountains, forests, wetlands, and a 50 km stretch of Mediterranean coastline. This variety of habitats supports a rich biodiversity, with over 87,000 species of animals and birds recorded, many of which are endangered. The park's wetlands are particularly important, serving as vital stopovers for migratory birds, including flamingos, herons and white storks. Birdwatchers can enjoy the view from several bird watching towers. The forests, dominated by cork oak and maritime pine, are home to mammals such as wild boars, jackals, and the Barbary deer. The park also boasts the only lagoon in Algeria that communicates with the sea, Lake Mellah. Visitors can explore scenic trails, observe rare species, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of one of Algeria's most important natural reserves. Activities include hiking, birdwatching, wildlife observation, and water activities such as swimming and boating. El Kala National Park also holds cultural significance, with remnants of ancient civilizations scattered throughout the area. The park faces threats from urbanization and proposed infrastructure development, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.

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