For travelers with a layover in In Salah, the proximity of INZ to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave INZ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Algeria. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to In Salah takes about 50 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is DZD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from In Salah Airport to Downtown
From INZ, the Taxi gets you to In Salah in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at INZ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in In Salah’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your In Salah layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$12 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$28 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in In Salah, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to See and Do in In Salah
For a layover visit to In Salah, we’d suggest Old Ksar of In Salah and In Salah Palm Groves. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside INZ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- INZ Airport Waiting Lounge
- Airport Souvenir & Essentials Shop
Food & Dining Options
For food in In Salah, local travelers recommend Restaurant El Wahat. If you have time for a second stop, Cafe du Désert is another popular pick.
Back at INZ, Airport Cafeteria is the go-to. Quick Bites & Drinks Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at INZ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in In Salah itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Algeria that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, INZ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in In Salah is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy In Salah.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.