TIMGAD & CONSTANTINE
Arriving at the Ruins of Timgad I could see the car park was completely empty, not one person seemed to be here apart from the police escort who was here to meet me. They immediately questioned how we had arrived on our own but again they were happy and left us to it, Algeria is by no means dangerous so it’s just precautionary. The guide and driver were fantastic, similar personality as me and was never rushed.
THE SUNSET IN CONSTANTINE IS TYPICAL OF THE BEST IN AFRICA
WHERE IS CONSTANTINE?
MOSAICS
The ruins were pretty incredible and there was plenty to see. There is also a museum and although I am not a huge lover of artefacts, the mosaics on show were something else!
CHALLENGE
From here it was an 1hr 30m drive into Constantine and some food at a restaurant called Rais which was incredible! I was recommended the Chakhtchoukha which is basically just lots of stewed bread but it was amazing! I was sweating so much I was happy to leave some on the plate until the guides said they have yet to see seen someone finish this dish. So naturally I picked up my fork and scoffed the rest, never one to pass on a challenge!
CONSTANTINE
We then headed for a quick drive and tour of Constantine as it was getting late. The town is just incredible, and I can safely say I have never seen a place like it! I remember writing my About Me page (link) and saying no matter how much we see of the world there will always be magic waiting to be discovered. This just proved it as Constantine left me speechless!
Built on either side of a huge gorge, Constantine is incredibly unique and a dream for photographers and history buffs. The city has a total of 8 bridges which connects either side of the 120m Rhummel Gorge, all offering breath taking views. It is a must when visiting Algeria.
MONUMENT AUX MORTS
We stopped at what seemed like every corner but the best was left for last when we ventured up to the Monument Aux Morts. As the mouth of the gorge faces west there are incredible views of the sunset from almost anywhere in the city. This is where everyone seems to gather, chill out and take photos. As alcohol really doesn’t exist here, you’ll see a lot of people outside chatting over a coffee, lunch or ice cream but today it was a sunset and surely one of the best I have seen!
MORE ICE CREAM
After a number of photos it was back down hill and to the ice cream shop. Wassim was quick to tell the guide here how much I liked the ice cream shop he took me to in Algiers. The guide was well up for the challenge and took me to his local ice cream shop for the test. In all fairness it might have had a good chance if the server didn’t lump a load of caramel sauce on it!
Checking into the Ibis tonight for a cold shower, it’s a been a hell of a long day!
FINAL THOUGHTS
After today and yesterday LINKS my time in Algeria could only get better but Constantine was the perfect remedy.
NEXT UP
Final day in Algeria before flying to Marseille. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
134/229
This post is part of The Algeria Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
