No, Algeria does not have a coastline on an ocean; rather, it borders the Mediterranean Sea.
Algeria, recognized as the second-largest state in Africa, possesses a significant maritime border along the northern edge of the continent. This extensive coastline, stretching approximately 998 kilometers (620 miles), lies entirely on the Mediterranean Sea, not an ocean.
Algeria's Maritime Borders
While the term "ocean" typically refers to the vast bodies of saltwater that cover Earth's surface and separate continents (like the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean), the Mediterranean Sea is a large, almost entirely landlocked sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean only by the narrow Strait of Gibraltar. Consequently, Algeria's access to the sea is exclusively through the Mediterranean.
| Body of Water Bordering Algeria | Length of Coastline (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Mediterranean Sea | 998 kilometers (620 miles) |
This coastal region is vital for Algeria, facilitating trade, maritime activities, and offering a distinct geographical zone that contrasts with the country's interior.
Geographical Context of Algeria
Beyond its Mediterranean front, Algeria's topography is notably diverse. The country is traversed from east to west by two prominent mountain ranges: the Tellian Atlas and the Saharan Atlas. These mountain systems play a crucial role in dividing Algeria into three distinct geographical zones, each with its unique climate and characteristics:
- The Tellian Atlas region: This northern zone includes the fertile coastal plains and the Tellian Atlas mountains, where the majority of the population resides.
- The High Plateaus: Situated between the Tellian and Saharan Atlas ranges, this zone consists of elevated plains.
- The Sahara Desert: South of the Saharan Atlas, this vast desert region covers a significant portion of the country's landmass, extending into the heart of Africa.
The presence of the Mediterranean Sea provides a crucial temperate influence on Algeria's northern climate, contrasting sharply with the arid conditions found further south in the Sahara Desert.
