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Theniet El Had National Park: Algeria's Cedar Forest Sanctuary

Discover Algeria's natural beauty in Theniet El Had National Park: ancient cedar forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning mountain views.

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Theniet El Had National Park, Algeria's first protected national park, is a haven of biodiversity. Explore ancient cedar forests, spot diverse wildlife, and hike scenic trails in this natural sanctuary nestled in the Tell Atlas Mountains.

A brief summary to Theniet El Had National Park

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as even the easier trails have rocky sections.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Visit in the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for the best weather and scenery.
  • Bring layers, as the temperature can change dramatically throughout the day, especially at higher elevations.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Algiers, take the A1 highway towards Chiffa. Continue on the A1 until you reach Theniet El Had National Park and follow the signs for the park entrance. The park is approximately 170 km southwest of Algiers. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. Be sure to fill up on fuel before the trip, as gas stations may be sparse in the mountainous areas. Parking is available near the park entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train from Algiers to Rouina, then take a taxi to Theniet El Had. Alternatively, take a bus from Algiers to Chlef, then take a taxi to Theniet El Had. Bus or shared taxis (grand taxis) are available from major towns in the Ouarsenis Mountains. Expect to pay around 200-500 DZD (Algerian Dinar) depending on your starting location. From the drop-off point, walking may be necessary to reach specific areas within the park.

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Discover more about Theniet El Had National Park

Nestled in the Tissemsilt Province of Algeria, Theniet El Had National Park stands as a remarkable sanctuary, showcasing some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. Established in 1983, the park spans over 3,425 hectares (approximately 8,463 acres) of pristine wilderness in the Ouarsenis Mountains, a part of the Tell Atlas range. The park's defining feature is its ancient cedar forests, among the largest in Algeria, where centuries-old trees reach skyward, creating an enchanting canopy. These forests are home to a rich variety of flora, including oak forests, flowery meadows, and thorny shrubs. The park also shelters diverse fauna, such as wild boars, Barbary macaques, and nearly a hundred bird species, including Bonelli's eagles and Egyptian vultures. Seventeen mammal species, nine of which are protected, over three hundred insect species, and various reptiles and amphibians also call the park home. Visitors can explore various hiking trails that offer scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, with viewpoints providing impressive vistas. The highest peak, Ras El Braret, reaches 1,787 meters (5,863 feet). The park is not only a leisure destination but also a research area focused on sustainable development, maintaining biodiversity, and monitoring the ecological balance. Local communities have coexisted with the park for centuries, their traditions and way of life intimately connected to the landscape. The area surrounding the park is rich in historical and cultural sites, offering a blend of nature, culture, and history for an immersive experience.

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