last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in North Africa
Official Recommendations
In France, both for individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Precautions
North Africa, in the midst of socio-political change, presents security challenges. Without always being alarmist, the current situation in Egypt, locally in Algeria, and even still somewhat in Tunisia requires a minimum of attention (Libya remains best avoided). In the region, only Morocco is relatively calm, at least on the surface.
Health
Illnesses
The risk of contracting an illness in North Africa is low (though keeping vaccinations up to date is advised). Overall, it’s mainly "turista" (diarrhea) that travelers need to watch out for.
Hygiene
Good personal and especially food hygiene is essential. Avoid tap water and dishes or foods that don’t appear completely fresh—if only to prevent turista. Also, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun in the hottest regions and seasons.
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
Traditional crime is relatively low in North African countries. However, what could be called "tourist scams" is quite common in Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt.
Political Risks and Terrorism
Beyond the "revolutions" of early 2011 experienced by Maghreb countries, the region remains tense, particularly since the rise of the Islamic State, which advocates restoring the caliphate in Iraq and Syria and is gradually extending its influence in North Africa.
In Algeria, the southern part (due to the strong presence of AQIM) and the Djurdjura mountain range (where a French hiker was murdered in September 2014) pose the greatest dangers in this regard. As a result, multiple precautions and thorough prior research are essential, regardless of the areas you plan to visit in the country.
In Tunisia, the country is navigating a socio-political transition between "traditionalism" and "modernity." However, the 2015 Islamist attacks (Tunis, Sousse) raised concerns and had significant consequences for tourism. Egypt also faces recurring internal violence that increasingly weighs on its tourism sector. As for Libya, since the fall of Gaddafi, it has yet to regain stability and is strongly discouraged for tourism.
Morocco remains calmer on the surface, though it has also experienced attacks in the past, and areas near the Algerian border may require extra caution locally.
Climate and Nature
Since much of North Africa is desert, the main precautions involve staying well-hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun. More obviously, avoid getting lost if traveling independently in desert areas. Additionally, several regions of Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt are located in seismic zones.
Regarding wildlife, while venomous snakes and scorpions exist in the desert, risks are minimal. The main concern is stray dogs, which may carry rabies.