Jardin d’Essai
Rue Mohamed Belouizdad, Algiers, Algeria
A lush botanical garden in Algiers’ central Hamma district, Jardin d’Essai boasts stunning Mediterranean scenery and over 1,000 plant species. With its bubbling fountains and shaded paths, it’s a popular place to escape the bustle of Algeria’s capital city—the greenery even doubled as a jungle in Hollywood’s Tarzan of the Apes. Plus, its bayside location guarantees excellent views.
The Jardin d’Essai is spread over 148 acres (60 hectares). Some travelers may include it as a stop on a half or full-day tour through Algiers, while others opt to visit independently. The public space is divided into multiple sections: a formal French garden with trimmed edges, an English garden with dense vegetation and shady walkways, and various greenhouses with cacti and tropical plants. There’s also a small zoo.
There is a small fee to access the Jardin d’Essai, which does not include entry to the zoo. Anyone wishing to see the animals should expect to pay for an additional ticket. Bring cash, as card payments may not be accepted.
The garden is typically safe, although solo female travelers may want to take precautions and consider visiting with a guide. Some visitors have reported unwanted attention from men.
Carry a water bottle, particularly on hot, sunny days. And wear comfortable footwear if you plan on getting some walking in.
The Jardin d’Essai has its own stop on the Algiers metro line, making this garden easy to reach using public transportation. Simply get off at the Jardin d’Essai station. If you prefer to come by bus, take lines 5, 6, 10, 12, or 15, depending on where you’re coming from. You can also take a taxi or rideshare. The garden is near the National Museum of Fine Arts and at the foot of the Martyr’s Memorial.
The Jardin d’Essai is typically open from Monday to Thursday during daytime hours, then again on Saturday and Sunday. It is closed every Friday when Algiers observes Muslim prayers. Expect restaurants and other attractions to be closed then, too. Spring is the ideal season to visit, when the garden is blooming, and temperatures are still mild.
Located right near the Jardin d’Essai, visitors can find the cable car station to ascend to Maqam Echahid—the Martyrs’ Memorial. This guarantees you a direct trip and an excellent opportunity to enjoy a bird’s eye panorama overlooking the Bay of Algiers coastline. The sleek memorial pays tribute to Algerians killed in the War of Independence against France.
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