GIRAlgeria
LE CONSTANTINOIS - AU PAYS DE CIRTA
L'Algérie romaine de Constantine · Tiddis · Skikda · Hippone · Guelma · Djemila · Timgad
8 days / 7 nights
2-12 people
Easy
Détours Algérie
Trip Overview
This exceptional circuit unveils one of the Mediterranean's richest archaeological heritages in the Constantinois region, where ancient history unfolds under open skies. Long before Roman expansion, Cirta already reigned majestically over the spectacular gorges of the Rhumel River as capital of the mighty Numidia. The arrival of Trajan's legions subsequently gave birth to some of the most remarkable architectural jewels of the Roman Empire in North Africa. Clients will discover entire cities miraculously preserved, ancient theaters nestled in mountain settings, thermal complexes fed by natural bubbling springs, and an urban network whose geometric layout has traversed centuries for two millennia. This 8-day immersion reveals vertiginous Constantine with its emblematic bridges, then leads to the exceptional archaeological sites of Tiddis, Hippo, Djemila and Timgad, all inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage list. An intensive cultural journey combining major historical sites, living heritage and authentic discoveries.
Trip Highlights
- Constantine and its vertiginous bridges overlooking the mythical gorges of Rhumel
- Tiddis, perched Roman citadel unknown to traditional circuits
- Hippo, historic city of Saint Augustine with exceptional remains
- Djemila (Cuicul), UNESCO-listed Roman architectural jewel at 900m altitude
- Timgad, dubbed the Pompeii of Africa, Trajan's emblematic foundation
- Hammam Meskhoutine and its natural thermal springs at 90°C
- Numidian Mausoleum of Medghassen, witness to pre-Roman grandeur
- Authentic cultural immersion with local craftsmanship and Malouf traditions
Day-by-Day Itinerary
J1Constantine - Arrival at the Rock of Eagles
Constantine - Arrival at the Rock of Eagles
Welcome of participants at Mohamed Boudiaf airport followed by transfer to the historic city of Constantine. Check-in at selected accommodation then first orientation approach on the famous Rock of Eagles. Initial discovery of the emblematic suspension bridges and impressive gorges of Rhumel that characterize the exceptional site of the city. The evening concludes with dinner in a traditional local restaurant with initiation to Malouf sounds, Andalusian-Algerian musical heritage.
Free meals
J2Cirta - The City in All Its States
Cirta - The City in All Its States
Full day dedicated to in-depth exploration of ancient Numidian Cirta. Morning begins with visit to Cirta museum, rich in archaeological collections tracing the region's historical evolution. Afternoon continues with discovery of La Souka, historic quarter with authentic alleys, then exploration of Bey's palace, testimony to Ottoman architecture, and Emir Abdelkader mosque. Day ends with privileged free time in local craft souks for immersion in traditional know-how.
Free meals
J3Tiddis · Skikda · The Mediterranean - The Forgotten Outpost · The Rediscovered Sea
Tiddis · Skikda · The Mediterranean - The Forgotten Outpost · The Rediscovered Sea
Morning discovery of Tiddis, remarkably preserved ancient Roman citadel, spectacularly perched on mountainside offering unique perspectives over the valley. Scenic route to Skikda, ancient port city Rusicade founded by Romans on Mediterranean coast. Gastronomic lunch of grilled fish according to local traditions, followed by privileged relaxation on preserved beaches of Stora, allowing harmonious transition between cultural discovery and seaside pleasures.
Free meals
J4Annaba · Hippo · Seraidi - The City of Saint Augustine
Annaba · Hippo · Seraidi - The City of Saint Augustine
Morning route to Annaba followed by in-depth visit of major archaeological site of Hippo, historic city where Saint Augustine lived and preached. Complete exploration of remarkable remains including Peace Basilica with imposing dimensions, perfectly preserved early Christian baptistery, ancient theater, forum remains and Roman baths with still visible structures. Lunch of marine specialties then panoramic ascent to Seraidi, altitude resort offering spectacular and breathtaking views over entire bay of Annaba and Mediterranean coast.
Free meals
J5Guelma · Hammam Meskhoutine - Rome, Numidia and Boiling Springs
Guelma · Hammam Meskhoutine - Rome, Numidia and Boiling Springs
Morning visit to Guelma, ancient Roman Calama, with discovery of its remarkably preserved Roman theater dating from 3rd century, eloquent testimony to ancient urbanism in this strategic region. Continuation to exceptional natural site of Hammam Meskhoutine, unique geological phenomenon where natural hot springs gush reaching remarkable temperature of 90°C, creating spectacular limestone formations. Thermal waters have given birth to mineral concretions with amazing forms, true natural curiosity. Route to Setif at end of day passing through mountainous landscapes typical of Algerian highlands.
Free meals
J6Djemila · Cuicul - The City Suspended in the Clouds
Djemila · Cuicul - The City Suspended in the Clouds
Complete exploration of Djemila, ancient Roman Cuicul, exceptional UNESCO site located at 900 meters altitude in striking mountainous setting. Detailed visit of Caracalla's triumphal arch with majestic proportions, two forums testifying to urban evolution, baths with sophisticated hydraulic systems, Christian basilica revealing late Christianization, and archaeological museum housing exceptional mosaic collections among finest in Roman Africa. Site offers perfect example of Roman urbanism adaptation to mountainous relief. Route to Batna in evening, gateway to Aures.
Free meals
J7Medghassen · Timgad · Lambese - The Pompeii of Africa
Medghassen · Timgad · Lambese - The Pompeii of Africa
Morning visit to Numidian mausoleum of Medghassen, exceptional pre-Roman funerary monument testifying to greatness of ancient Berber kingdoms, then discovery of Timgad, model Roman colony founded ex nihilo by Emperor Trajan in year 100 CE. Systematic exploration of perfectly preserved checkerboard urban plan, unique in world for its state of preservation, with intact paved streets, central forum, 3500-seat theater, monumental baths, library and residential quarters. Complementary excursion to Lambese, former permanent military camp of III Augusta Legion, revealing Roman military organization with remains of barracks, principia and amphitheater.
Free meals
J8Timgad · Constantine · Departure - Dawn Over Trajan's Stones
Timgad · Constantine · Departure - Dawn Over Trajan's Stones
Privileged early rise to admire Timgad in golden dawn light, magical moment when archaeological site reveals all its beauty in morning silence, offering exceptional photographic conditions and unique contemplative atmosphere. Return route to Constantine through changing landscapes of highlands. Final free time in City of Bridges allowing participants to complete souvenir shopping or relive journey highlights. Organized transfer to Mohamed Boudiaf airport for departure formalities.
Free meals
Price includes
- Accommodation 7 nights in selected establishments, double room basis
- Complete full board: breakfasts, lunches and dinners throughout circuit
- Transport in air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for entire stay
- Accompaniment by qualified French-speaking guide for entire circuit
- Services of specialized local archaeologist guides at all major heritage sites
- Entrance fees and access charges to all sites, museums and monuments mentioned in program
- Organized airport transfers arrival and departure
Price excludes
- International round-trip flights
- Algerian visa fees and formalities
- Table beverages (exception: mineral water included at lunches and dinners)
- Personal expenses, purchases and souvenir acquisitions
- Travel insurance policy (strongly recommended)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and service staff
- Any service not explicitly mentioned in program
Practical Information
Physical condition
Best season
Group size
2 to 12 participants
