The Berber Kabyle people originated from the country of Algeria where they traditionally inhabited a partially mountainous region stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the southern slopes of the Great Kabylie mountains and from Dellys to Cape Aokas.

They represent the largest Berber-speaking population of Algeria and the second largest in Africa. Emigration, influenced by factors such as the French conquest of Algeria, deportation, and latterly industrial decline and unemployment, has resulted in Kabyle people living in numerous countries. Large populations of Kabyle people settled in France and, to a lesser extent, Canada. It is estimated that half of Kabyles live outside the Kabylian region.

The Kabylians speak the Kabyle Berber language. As second and third languages, many speak Algerian Arabic, French and, to a lesser degree English.

They are mainly Muslims with a few Christians.