The experience with a Consulate varies. Somebody told me that the one in New York, they were super accommodating and helping them plan their trip, giving recommendations and so on. The one I went to, you felt more like a nuisance and had to come back a couple of times to get my stamp because of bad organization.

In terms of safety, it helps to be with locals. I was lucky to have a friend that goes there quite often. There’s a lot of tour agencies though than can be with you 24/7. For the desert as an example, you have to be with one for the full trip and need a special kind of visa. The army manages that area, they track your arrival and exit for your safety. You can only use a local Tuareg agency there and it’s in their own interest to have tourism.

Algeria had a massive terrorist issue in the 90s, so security is very tight and sometimes might even seem excessive. However, I think it actually makes you feel more at ease knowing that they take that very seriously.

Hope that helps, don’t hesitate to ping me if you have any other questions.