Its troubled reputation may put off anyone looking for the quiet life, but for those who take the time to explore, Algeria offers culture and adventure in spades.

The remaining 85% of the country is the Sahara Desert in its various forms, sustaining only 500,000 people, many of whom are nomadic tribes with goat and camel herds. The Sahara region contains two mountain ranges: the dramatic Hoggar massif, rising to almost 3,000m (9,800ft), and the Tassili N’Ajjer. Both are scenically stunning and offer some of the best desert landscapes in the world.

Currency

Dinar (DZD) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of DZD1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of DZD100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 centimes.

Note: Because of the very strict adherence of the authorities to these regulations, visitors are strongly advised not to be associated with the black market, which tends to concentrate on the Euro and portable electronics.

Electricity

220 volts AC, 50Hz. The European two-pin plug is standard.

General business opening hours

Generally Sat-Wed 0800-1200 and 1300-1600.

2018

New Year’s Day: 1 January 2018
Labour Day: 1 May 2018
Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan): 15 and 16 June 2018
Revolutionary Readjustment: 19 June 2018
Independence Day: 5 July 2018
Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice): 22 to 25 August 2018
Islamic New Year: 12 September 2018
Ashura (Day of the Dead): 22 September 2018
Anniversary of the Revolution: 1 November 2018
Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad): 21 November 2018

All information subject to change.

Fashionistas flock to this buzzing style show, whether buyers, sellers or simply lovers of high-quality attire. It’s a great place to spot the latest trends in clothing, shoes, bags and textiles or to be ahead of the crowd when it comes to jazzy jewellery or snazzy sunglasses.

International businesses promote their products and mingle with Algerian partners and clients at Algeria’s largest trade fair, which has been going strong since the 1960s. National pavilions host multiple exhibitors covering a range of sectors. Six days of intense networking ensues.

Celebrating independence from France in 1962, Algerians come together for a vibrant day of festivities, with special events and fireworks happening all over the city. The president usually addresses the nation to mark the occasion, drawing attention to the country’s achievements.

The end of Ramadan is an important occasion in Algeria, with Muslims celebrating the end of the fast with public worship, acts of charity and visits to friends and family. It’s also seen as a time to forgive and forget.

Highlighting Algerian Diwan music and other musical genres inspired by or blended with Diwan, this music fest encompasses a week of phenomenal performances by local singers as well as artists from across Africa and as far afield as the USA. Experts present masterclasses for an in-depth experience.

Cartoon and comic strip enthusiasts can check out terrific exhibitions, listen to talks from professional cartoon artists, or sign up to themed workshops covering topics from manga to 3D animation. There’s a competitive element too, with prizes for pros and amateurs alike.

Algeria’s own National Symphony Orchestra plus choirs, ensembles, chamber and symphony orchestras from across the globe play a terrific eight-day programme of world-class classical music performances. A highlight is the closing evening, when a multinational orchestra performs the finale concert.