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15 Best Places to Visit in Niger

Before we extoll its beauties, let’s get the gritty side of Niger out of the way. Beset by military juntas and tribal uprisings and other terrorist groups now marauding through the states of Central Africa, Niger has never been and still isn’t the safest of places to explore. Travelers under its spell should bide their time, check FCO warnings and wait; with luck, one day, this great cut-out of the Sahel and Sahara will once more open its doors and borders.

Until then we can only pine. So, pine we shall. Pine for the undulating dunes and the shifting sea of sands that is the Ténéré Desert. Pine for the mud-brick mosques of towns like Agadez. Pine for the winding alleyways of Zinder; the energetic markets of Balleyara, and for the old regal homes of onetime monarchic Dosso.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Niger :

A maze of tight-knit lanes and hidden streets weaves and winds to form the hard-to-navigate heart of Zinder.

Meanwhile, the Sultan’s Palace towers over the town with its great adobe architectural achievements.

And that’s not even mentioning the bustling bazaar, which stretches as far as the eye can see – it’s easy to believe it was once one of the busiest camel caravan stops on the trans-Saharan route! Yep, Zinder comes top for many reasons: its rich history of French rule, tribal culture and trading; its mercantile energy; its sheer, raw African beauty.

In short: not to be missed.

More than 1.3 million people live, work and play in the capital city of Niamey, making it the veritable human heart of Niger.

The city straddles the courses of the Niger River in the south-west, and bustles with fantastic open air markets, and a surprisingly heady nightlife scene after dark (check out the beer joints around Yantala Ancien – and remember the strict drinking laws as you do!). International eateries touting pizzas and pastas mix with the spicy creations of the African kitchen too, while the bulbous blue domes of the Grand Mosque are simply not to be missed!

Boasting nearly 1,000 years of history and steeped in tales of Sahelian camel caravans, the Ottomans (believe it or not!), and the old Songhai imperialists, enthralling Agadez certainly has a story to tell.

The town is found smack bang in the heart of the country as a whole, surrounded by the sun-scorched dunes of the Sahara Desert and the endless yellow of the sand sea.

It’s formed from a grid of narrow streets and adobe, mud-brick homes.

The centerpiece has to be the earthen minaret of the central mosque, which mimics the great landmarks of the desert towns of Mali to the west.

4. W National Park

Unquestionably the most famous national park in all of Niger, the W National Park has also attained that coveted UNESCO World Heritage Site tag, which it was awarded on account of its unique display of transition habitats between the savannah and the West African woods.

Just one fragment of the huge W Transborder Park that crosses into Burkina Faso and Benin, it’s made up primarily of dusty bushland.

And the animals? Well, suffice to say you should get the camera ready for a medley of baboons and African buffalo, giraffes, leopards, lions and more!

After just three hours on the rumbling dust roads from the capital you could find yourself alighting in the charming river town of Ayorou, one of the top draws of Southwestern Niger.

Known for the surrounding riparian habitats that encompass the settlement, Ayorou itself sits on its very own island, where the mosque and marketplaces both make their home too.

In fact, the bazaar is a great place to start your travels here, searching through the curious folk remedies and sampling simple Sahel street food, all before breaking out to see the hippos splashing and lazing in the muddy waters nearby.

6. Abaaba National Park

Established back in 1987 for the sole purpose of protecting the endangered animals that make this territory their home, the Abaaba National Park has remained firmly off the radar for nature-loving travelers making their way through this land on the join of the Sahel and Sahara.

That doesn’t mean it’s not worth the trip though.

There are forests of low-lying acacia trees and semi-savannah plains aplenty, all crisscrossed by herds of bucks and elephants.

The territory is also important on the conservation front, as one of the last remaining habitats of the uber-rare black rhino.

The gateway to the aforementioned Abaaba National Park and the easternmost settlement in the whole of Niger, the town of Nguigmi buts up the banks of cross-border Lake Chad with its humble air strip and pretty city mosque.

The whole place oozes the character you’d expect of a far-flung desert town, with camel caravans coming and going every day of the year.

The small settlement is also home to the tribal groups of the Kanuri people, the Daza and the Wodaabe-Fulani – many of whom are some of the few remaining examples of Niger’s fascinating pastoral communities.

For most travelers, Maradi – the third-largest city in the whole country – will be just an administrative stop; to switch transports or stock up before heading out to the historic richness of Zinder, or to the Nigerian border to the south.

However, those who linger will discover a town that hardly feels like any other urban destination in the nation; a place of (relative) economic prosperity and buzzing markets, oozing confidence and panache.

Head down to the Grand Marché to haggle your way through shamanic jewelry and magic charms like lizard tails and the like.

There’s also the awesome palatial home of the tribal leader: the Maradi palace, rising in grand styles on one of the central squares.

Traditionally the place where the Tuareg tribes of the northern desert lands fused with the Fulani folk of the southern reaches of the country, the town of Tahoua is where two of the major cultural identities in Niger can be seen mingling, mixing, and – most importantly of all – trading their wares.

The market here really does take center stage, so be sure to head down and see its buzzing stalls and the endless wealth of carved totems and witch doctor’s trinkets there.

The place is also known as one of the country’s phosphate mining hubs – so don’t be surprised if there’s a clutch of unattractive industry too.

Bulbous pink pomegranates, blood-red and orange citrus fruits, and bountiful clusters of watermelons are might not what you’d expect to see this deep in the heart of the Sahara Desert, but the far-flung town of Timia tells a different story.

Fed by an oasis for the entire year, the little clusters of low-rise cottages is surrounded by verdant fields of orchards and agricultural ground.

They stretch along the length of the valleys that carve through the heart of the Air Mountains, popping up here and there in a bloom of date palms, or a crash of green grasses.

Travel to Timia is intrepid, and promises fulfilling encounters with the desert nomads and villagers of the region.

Kouré is the place to go giraffe spotting.

Encompassed by hot and sandy Sahelian landscapes, the tiny town has its claim to fame in the long-necked creatures that stalk its backcountry.

They are said to be the last remaining complete giraffe herd in all of West Africa; an honor which continues to draw wide-eyed folk over the rumbling pathways from the capital (more than 60 kilometers to the north-west) by the bucket load.

Local guides can help you spot the rare creatures, but be prepared, because you may need to walk some before they reveal themselves!

Dosso, ancient Dosso, is one of the few palpable remaining relics of the pre-colonial era of Niger.

The onetime epicenter of the Dosso Kingdom, the state that commanded the loyalty of tribes in the south-west corner of the country before the coming of the Europeans, it’s a place alive with heritage and traditions.

Today the town is a fusion of the new and old, with low-rise concrete buildings mixing with ramshackle yurts.

The marketplace still bustles with life too, as groaning camels move in and out of the dusty streets all around.

13. Balleyara

A trip to the famous animal bazaar of Balleyara Market is a glimpse at the traditional lifestyles of central Africa.

A fusion of tribes and peoples, it draws traders from Mali, Burkina Faso and all over the far-flung reaches of greater Niger.

The result is a crash of folksy stalls and emporiums touting curious pieces of whittled art and good luck charms.

The other side – and by far the largest – of the market is the animal area, which means seeing everything from bull herds to camels changing hands.

And the really good news? Balleyara can be reached in just two hours from the capital at Niamey.

If you can get past the overtly industrial character of Arlit, then you might just appreciate the town for the earthy and folksy place that it is.

Deep in the wild Agadez Region, it’s one of the best gateways to the vast dunes of the Ténéré Desert (although, admittedly, Agadez is better). The homes are crumbling, sunbaked bricks of mud; the people are tired uranium miners with leather-like faces, and you can pretty much be certain that very few – if any – travelers have ever lingered here for very long before you.

Diffa is a difficult place to pin down.

At times it’s been a tenacious hotbed for military uprisings against the Niger government; at others – like today – it’s a receptacle for the thousands of refugees that come flocking across the Nigerian border in fear of militant groups and extremists.

Unfortunately, those more recent developments have made the place pretty unsafe for modern travelers (even by Niger’s standards), so it looks like we’ll have to wait to explore the peaks and troughs of the dust-caked Diffa Region – the home of wandering waterbucks and rare leopards and more.

15 Best Places to Visit in Niger:

• W National Park
• Abaaba National Park

For those who have been lucky enough to visit, Niger is a desert republic filled with ancient caravan cities at the edge of the Sahara. 

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Musée National du Niger

The sprawling Musée National du Niger is one of West Africa's standouts. Numerous themed pavilions, each tipping their hat to Hausa architecture, give…

Petit Marché

The Petit Marché is smack-dab in the centre of town and merits a visit. Self-caterers can go crazy, squeezing fruit and veg to their hearts content in…

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15 Best Places To Visit In Niger

Posted on January 2, 2023 |

Niger , located in West Africa, has Niamey as its capital and French as its official language. The climate is tropical, with hot, dry summers (25-35°C) and mild, cool winters (12-18°C).

With a population of approximately 24.5 million, the country’s landscape is characterized by vast deserts, historical sites like abandoned kasbahs and diverse wildlife, ranging from large mammals like lions and giraffes to smaller ones such as porcupines and hyenas. Flora includes palm trees, cacti, and acacia trees.

Niamey, the capital of Niger, presents a diverse array of attractions for explorers. Situated primarily on the east side of the impressive Niger River, Africa’s third-longest river, the city offers scenic vistas and boat tour opportunities.

The Grand Mosque of Niamey stands as a notable landmark, featuring striking architecture that is worth appreciating from outside, even though non-Muslims cannot enter.

Those with an interest in wildlife can enjoy the Niamey Zoo, home to various animals such as lions, giraffes, and monkeys.

The National Museum of Niger provides insights into the country’s history and culture through a range of exhibits, from prehistoric artifacts to traditional attire.

The Artisan Village, also known as Village Artisanal, is a lively center for exploring traditional Nigerien crafts and potentially purchasing unique mementos.

The bustling W Market, named after its shape, is an ideal location to immerse oneself in local life and discover a variety of products, including food and clothing.

The National Museum of Niger in Niger

The National Museum of Niger, also known as Musée National Boubou Hama, is located in the capital city of Niamey. It is divided into several sections, each dedicated to different aspects of Niger’s history and culture.

One of the main sections is devoted to prehistoric artifacts, including tools, pottery, and rock art, which provide insights into the early human settlements in the region.

Another section focuses on the traditional culture of Niger’s various ethnic groups, featuring displays of clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and other artifacts.

The museum also houses a collection of dinosaur fossils, which were discovered in the Agadez region of Niger. These fossils are considered some of the most important paleontological finds in Africa and attract researchers and enthusiasts from around the world.

The National Museum of Niger hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it an important center for cultural exchange and learning in the country.

The Great Market Niamey

The Great Market of Niamey, also known as the Grand Marché, is a bustling commercial hub in Niamey, the capital city of Niger. It is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in West Africa, offering a wide range of goods and products that cater to both locals and tourists.

The market is divided into various sections, each dedicated to different types of goods. Visitors can find everything from fresh produce, spices, and local cuisine to clothing, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts.

The market is also known for its livestock section, where traders buy and sell various animals, including goats, sheep, and cattle.

The Grand Marché is not only a place for shopping but also a cultural center where people gather to socialize, exchange news, and experience the local way of life.

Agadez, a historic city in Northern Niger, was established in the 11th century. It was a significant trade and transport hub, ruled by various empires including Mali, Songhai, and Bornu.

The French occupied it in the late 19th century. The old town remains, showcasing unique Air region architecture.

Agadez is a cultural exchange center between North Africa and the Sahel region. The local Tuareg people are known for their leather and metallic crafts, making it an ideal place for souvenir shopping.

Tourism has become a vital income source for Tuareg women, supplementing revenues from handicraft exports and passing tourists.

The Grande Mosque Of Agadez

The Grande Mosquee of Agadez, also known as the Agadez Mosque, is a significant historical and architectural landmark located in Agadez, Niger. The Grande Mosquee of Agadez has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Built in 1515 during the Songhai Empire, it was originally a watchtower and later transformed into a mosque. The mosque is renowned for being the tallest mud-brick building in the world, constructed primarily from clay.

This impressive structure is not only an important place of worship but also a major tourist attraction. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The mosque is situated in a historic district that dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, which was a significant trans-Saharan exchange center and home to several sultanates.

Zinder, Niger’s second largest city, is a significant administrative and commercial hub known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Founded in the 18th century, it grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the trans-Saharan trade route.

Notable landmarks include the Sultan’s Palace, an impressive example of Sahelian architecture now serving as a museum, and the Grand Mosque, which showcases a unique blend of Sudanese and Sahelian architectural styles.

Zinder is situated 230 km from Maradi and 80 km from Niamey, the capital city. Zinder’s bustling markets offer a variety of goods, particularly leather products, pottery, and traditional handcrafts.

For budget travelers, Zinder is best visited during the cooler months, October to March. Key attractions include the 15th-century Sultan’s Palace, the Zinder Regional Museum showcasing Hausa and local culture, and the large market where bartering is common.

Sultan Palace

The Sultan Palace in Niger, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic architectural landmark in Zinder. Built in the 19th century, it served as the residence for local sultans and is an example of traditional Sahelian architecture.

The palace features a large complex of rooms and courtyards and now functions as a museum showcasing regional history and culture. Notable aspects include glazed windows, intricately carved doors, and exhibits ranging from ancient Fulani artifacts to dinosaur bones.

Exploring Zinder, the cultural capital, offers additional attractions such as beautiful clay buildings and the Birnin quarter’s labyrinths.

The Sahara Desert In Niger

The Sahara Desert in Niger, covering 80% of the country, is a captivating and relatively unexplored destination for authentic African experiences .

It offers camel trekking, encounters with nomadic tribes like Tuareg and Wodaabe, and diverse wildlife such as addax antelopes, dorcas gazelles and desert foxes.

Camel trekking is popular, with multi-day guided tours showcasing sand dunes, rock formations, and diverse wildlife . The ancient city of Agadez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts stunning mud-brick architecture.

The Oasis of Timia

One of the most beautiful places in Africa is the Oasis of Timia, Niger. This oasis has clean, freshwater pools and a lot of lush greenery. It is located in the Air Mountains and is a popular destination for locals and tourists.

Timia and Temet are both located in volcanic landscapes, and the south-eastern region of Calamus is unique. Because it is so remote, the residents have managed to preserve their traditional way of life.

Another highlight of the area is Mont-have Idoukal-n-Tages, which is a well-watered area located near the town of Tenere. This area is also rich in rock art.

The Citadel Dosso

The Dosso Citadel, a historic monument in southern Niger, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This fortified citadel served as the seat of the Dosso Kingdom, ruling the Zarma region until French colonization.

The citadel, now part of a modern museum, was a palace with defensive walls. The Dosso kingdom, led by a ruler called the Djermakoy, governed Niger for centuries before European colonization.

The Air Mountains

The Air Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Niger, are barren peaks covering 84,000 square kilometers and featuring ancient rock art dating back to 6,000 BCE.

Despite the harsh climate, the region hosts various mammals, Acacia trees, and Tuareg villages. The mountains are part of a national park spanning two countries, housing over 350 bird species and numerous large mammals, including giraffes, which are unique to West Africa.

To visit, ensure travel insurance and prepare for extreme heat. Safari tours can be booked at Tapoa Gate or via dugout boats on the Niger River, and trekking is also an option.

The W National Park

The W National Park, spanning three countries, is a major West African park situated around a river meander shaped like a “W”. It offers diverse landscapes, including grasslands, shrublands, and gallery forests, under the Sahelian biome.

The park is home to abundant wildlife such as elephants, hippos, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, wild dogs, and baboons, as well as a variety of bird species . This significant park provides a more affordable safari experience compared to East African game parks .

Visitors can explore the park through boat safaris on the Mekrou River, using hand-directed or motorized dugouts, which can be arranged from eco-lodges or main gates.

Koure Giraffe Reserve

The Koure Giraffe Reserve in Niger, established in 1996, is home to over 600 giraffes, making it one of the last populations of giraffes in Western Africa.

Located near the town of Koure, the reserve is safe for visitors and allows vehicles to approach within 5 meters of the giraffes.

The park offers hiking trails and limited lodging options. It is considered a conservation success story and is easily accessible despite its remote location.

Abaaba National Park

When visiting Niger, consider starting at Abaaba National Park on Lake Chad, where camel caravan tours offer views of giraffe herds and ancient villages. In Tahoua, the country’s largest city, explore the witch doctor bazaar and phosphate mine.

Visit the Niger National Museum, built during the French colonial era, to learn about the country’s history and culture through exhibits, a zoo, and an artisan market. The Cathedral de Maorey showcases a blend of European and local architecture.

For further exploration, head to Ayorou, about 200 kilometers northwest of Niamey near the Malian border. Known for its animal market, Ayorou’s old town features a maze of alleyways and a large market, typical of Hausa settlements.

Ferme Youyou

Ferme Youyou is a museum and cultural center located in Niger. It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the country’s diverse history, including its unique religious beliefs.

The museum showcases traditional clothing, weapons, and jewelry of the local people. It also features an aviary and aquarium with typical Niger fish. The gardens and courtyards are vibrant, and the museum’s enchanting décor adds to the overall experience.

Niger is an amazing destination for travelers interested in exploring Africa. It has an incredible desert , beautiful mountains, and fascinating historical sites. The Sahara desert is the world’s largest desert and the largest hot desert in the world.

It has plenty of great places to explore, such as the ancient ruins of Agadez. Niger also has some stunning mountains , including Mount Tahat and Mount Idougou. Finally, Niger has lots of fascinating historical sites, such as the Grand Mosque of Agadez and the ancient city of Zinder.

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Things to see and do in Niger

Attractions in niger, buy a camel at ayorou market.

Trawl the animal market in Ayourou, an ancient trading station located on an island in the Niger River, close to the Malian border. While in the region, use the town of Tillabéri as a jumping off point for reaching W National Park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for the endangered West African giraffe, which clings on in the park.

Catch a tribal festival

Celebrate the end of the rainy season with the Peulh people, who mark the change in weather with a lively knees up. Alternatively, witness the Cure Salée at Ingall, when nomads gather their cattle to go to new pastures. Not to be missed is the Wodaabé tribe's gerewol , an annual courtship festival, the largest of which takes place at Ingall.

Discover Niger’s desert landscapes

Arrange an expedition through the mountains to relax at the springs at Igouloulef and Tafadek or the oasis town of Iferouane. Beyond, the Ténéré Desert offers a charismatic landscape of dunes and open plains, while the Djado Plateau is rich in prehistoric rock painting and engraving.

Experience Zinder’s labyrinthine alleyways

The Old Town in Zinder, which was the capital of Niger until 1927, is a compact maze of alleyways, typical of a Hausa settlement. Near the centre is the adobe Sultan's Palace, while the central market impresses with its sheer size alone. Artefacts in the small museum help to explain the history of the town.

Explore the Aïr Mountains

Within the Sahara Desert, the rugged Aïr Mountains rise steeply out of the desolate landscape to more than 1,800m (6,000ft), and extend over some 85,000 sq km (32,000 sq miles). A region traditionally roamed by Tuareg nomads, it is home to a surprising array of wildlife, including hyena, baboon and desert specialists such as the fennec.

Go souvenir shopping in Maradi

Niger's third largest city, Maradi is one of the country's economic hubs. As a centre for Hausa culture, Maradi hosts an artisan market for handicraft purchases in the Solitan quarter, as well as the historically important Katsinawa Provincial Chief's Palace and Dan Kasswa mosque which are well worth visiting.

Kick back in the capital, Niamey

Niamey is the country's sprawling capital, situated on the east bank of the Niger River. The Small and Grand Markets are worth a visit, as is the Great Mosque, the National Museum (including botanical gardens and a zoo) and the Hippodrome, where horse and camel races often take place.

Observe wildlife in W National Park

Named so because of the W-shaped meander in the River Niger, W National Park is the country's most important conservation area. Spanning 10,000 sq km (4,000 sq miles) across three countries, its abundant wildlife including buffalos, elephants, lions, hyenas, jackals, baboons and giraffe. The birdlife is also prolific, with over 350 species identified.

Pay your respects to the King of Dosso

Royalists may want to swing by Dosso, seat of the Dosso Kingdom, which came to dominate the region before colonialism and continues to perform a ceremonial role. The city in southwest Niger is home to an exceptional palace, museum, and lively town square. Many festivals with parades and official ceremonies are celebrated here.

Sail the Niger River

Take a canoe for a sunset sail along the Niger River, one of Africa's most important waterways and Niger's lifeblood. Fishing for some of the 250 species in the river is possible throughout the year, the main season being from February to July.

Visit the ancient trading city of Agadez

Climbing the pyramidal minaret of the mud-brick Grand Mosque at sunset provides spectacular views of Agadez, the old Tuareg capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Still a caravan trading city, it has a thriving camel market, but also a lively handicraft trade. Beautiful silver and leatherwork can be bought all around the city.

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Niger — Attractions

Places to see in Niger are diverse, from cultural attractions reflecting the traditions of desert empires, to wild and wonderful natural beauty that many potential visitors would expect from an African country. A couple of the nature sights are relatively close to Niamey, meaning a day trip is always possible. For some of the rich culture of the Sahel region, you will need to head east and north of the capital to reach the great Sahara Desert.

Agadez is an ancient city founded in the 11th century. It then became an important seat of the famous sultanates of the Sahel, and an established center of Islamic learning. It was an important stop on the trans-Saharan trade route for merchants crossing the desert by camel, and today it also remains an important point on the trans-Sahara highway, an important trunk road for transporting goods north to south through Africa. It is still a populated and busy city, important for trade in the region, and today visitors can enjoy a mix of the old and new. The key sites from the Islamic tradition are the Sultanate Palace and the Agadez Mosque, built in the 16th century. It is also an important center for the Tuareg people, who are famous for producing metal and leather handicrafts, which you can purchase at the local markets. Around the city you can enjoy views of the spectacular rugged desert terrain of the Air Mountains. Address: Agadez, central northern Niger Phone: n/a Website: n/a

This is a picturesque town on the banks of Niger River, almost at the point where the country borders Mali to the north. One of the most popular activities to do in Ayorou is to go on a hippopotamus tour on the river. The tour will also take you to a couple of the inhabited islands on the river so you can experience the village life there. Ayorou is about three hours north of Niamey and is easily reached from the capital. Address: Ayorou, southwest Niger Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Zinder is often referred to as the cultural capital of Niger, and indeed it was for a long time the true, administrative capital city of the country until 1927, when the capital was moved to its current location of Niamey. Today, the city offers plenty of attraction for tourists, including the Sultan’s Palace, which is made from mud brick so uniquely stylized to the traditions of the Sahel region. There is also a large market here offering a glimpse into the mercantile past, and these traditions that continue in this part of the world. Bartering is the norm here, so expect to haggle to grab the best bargain. Address: Zinder, central south Niger Phone: n/a Website: n/a

W National Park

This protected park land is actually shared across a tri-border area between the nations of Niger, Benin, and Burkina Faso and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. A big area of the park lies within Niger, and here it was decreed a national park in 1954. As you may imagine, a park in sub-Saharan Africa is notably home to large mammals, including some of the last African elephants left in West Africa. Also there are baboons, water buffalo, hippos, cheetahs, leopards, and lions, and there have been 350 species identified in the park. The park is named so because it occupies an area where the river Niger meanders, forming the letter ‘W’ from an aerial view. Address: W National Park, far southwest Niger Phone: n/a Website: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/749

This town in southwestern Niger is close to the last known home of a herd of giraffes in West Africa. It is easily accessed from Niamey, less than two hours’ drive, and once there you can head out in a car to the surrounding park to spot these lofty mammals feeding off the treetops. During the rainy season, the giraffes feed closer to the road, so you can walk from Koure to see them, but still expect at least an hour’s hike. Address: Koure, southwestern Niger Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Dabous Giraffe Rock Art

There are two carvings of giraffes at this site, first discovered in 1997. Estimated to have been completed between 9,000 and 5,000 BC, they are prime examples of early human existence in the area, and reflect their nomadic activities. Each carving is around 20ft in height. Address: Dabous Giraffes, Dabous, northern Niger Phone: n/a Website: http://www.bradshawfoundation.com/giraffe/

Situated on the banks of the Niger River, the waterway for which the country is named, is the nation’s capital, Niamey. It is situated at a place where the river flows by gently. Aside from the best hospitality and entertainment options in Niger, there is plenty to do in Niamey, such as visiting the colossal Grande Mosque. The edifice is testament to Niger’s huge Muslim population, which makes up over 90 percent of the total. After visiting the mosque you could always attempt to somewhat balance this out by taking a look at the Cathedral de Maorey, which is interestingly architecturally because it mixes European and African styles. Address: Niamey, southwest Niger Phone: n/a Website: n/a

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Niger Safari Tours & Holidays

Niger or the Niger, officially the Republic of the Niger, is a landlocked country in West Africa named after the Niger River. Niger is bordered by Libya to the northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria to the south, Benin to the southwest, Mali to the northwest, Burkina Faso to the southwest, and Algeria to the northwest. More than 80 percent of this landlocked country is covered by the Sahara Desert.

Named after the Niger River, Niger is the largest nation in West Africa. The Sahara Desert covers more than 80 percent of its land. Even its non-desert portions are threatened by drought.

Niger’s hot and dry landlocked position has put it at a great disadvantage. It is one of the poorest countries in the world, with low literacy, lack of infrastructure, and little access to health care.

Commercially, Niger has a weak transportation system with few paved roads and no railways. The Niger River is also unnavigable because it is too shallow for boats the majority of the year. Niger’s economy is based on some of the world’s largest uranium deposits — making up as much as 70 percent of its exports — as well as livestock and crops, such as pearl millet and cassava.

Niger has stunning natural beauty, especially in the Mountain ranges in the north of the country, but also houses a few old trading centers in the Sahara, such as Agadez and Zinder, that have a distinct mixture of Arab/ Tuareg and black African culture. The Hausa architecture in those towns is also worth a visit for tourists. The wild giraffe herd lives near Koure which is only around sixty kilometers from Niamey on a paved road. You will need a 4×4 vehicle and a guide, however. The giraffes live near many people and are rather curious and friendly. You can approach within ten meters or so before they become more cautious. The locals are also very friendly. Don’t be surprised if you are invited into someone’s home. In such circumstances, a small gift would always be appreciated.

How to get to Niger

Most travelers arrive via Niamey International Airport (NIM), where most flights come in at night and the cool air outside welcomes you into a relatively relaxed taxi parking lot from an African standpoint. You are not hassled or hustled much here, which can come as a relief after braving the likes of Lagos and similar Afro capitals, even major tourist ones. Air France, Royal Air Maroc, Turkish Airlines, Burkina Airlines, Air Ivoire fly to the capital, but international flights to Agadez has been discontinued several years ago. The immigration process is a pleasure and very friendly, and the officials often let your friends or the party coming to pick you up wait inside the immigration area. Everything is quiet, secure, and relaxed, and Niamey is one of the tamer beasts of the west when it comes to African cities.

Passport, Visa, and Entry requirements for Niger

According to Niger’s visa policy, only the citizens of 19 countries can enter Niger without a visa and stay there for up to 90 days. Visas on arrival are also available, but those who want one must have a pre-approval letter from the national police and enter the country via Niamey. The passport is held for one business day, and you must return the next day to the Director-General of Immigration to register and take back your passport. In all the other cases, a consular visa is required from the nearest diplomatic mission of Niger. African countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Tunisia, as well as those of Hong Kong and you, have to apply through their embassy near you and ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months from the time of entry into Niger.

Visas are $100 for most foreign nationals and admit tourists and businessmen for 3 months from the date of entry. They are also valid for 3 months. You must show yellow fever (yellow card) vaccination upon arrival, but all else is relatively smooth here and corruption-free at least to your face as an incoming/outgoing visitor.

The US Embassy in Washington DC for Niger grants visas to anyone who applies and is eligible. You need not be American, and can quite literally mail your application in from anywhere in the world and have your visa issued and sent back!

The health sector of Niger

The private  sector  includes around 200  health establishments, seven supply centers, and 42 private pharmacies. The health  system is under-resourced. More than 50% of the population does not have access to  health  services. The quality of available  health services and their coverage are both severely limited so ensure you contact your insurance company for an evacuation plan in case of any danger or health concern

Malaria and Yellow fever vaccination for Niger

Proof of vaccination or an official yellow fever vaccination certificate is required upon arrival in Niger and Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. You cannot be vaccinated against malaria so ensure you have antimalarial drugs with you and sleep under a mosquito net.

Currency of  Niger

The national currency of Niger is West African CFA franc ( xof ; symbol CFA) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of CFA 10, 000, 5,000, 2,500, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of CFA 500, 250, 200, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1. Niger is part of the French Monetary Area.

Official Language of  Niger

Niger has 11 official languages, with  French  being the official language and Hausa the most spoken language. Depending on how they are counted, Niger has between 8 and 20 indigenous languages. The discrepancy comes from the fact that several are closely related, and can be grouped together or considered apart.

Best time to travel to Niger

The  best time to visit Niger is in January and February and July until December when you will have a hot or very hot temperature and none till limited rainfall. The highest average temperature in  Niger  is 42°C in April and the lowest is 34°C in January.

What to wear in Niger

Travelers visiting  Niger should bring loose conservative clothing. Given the hot climate, light-colored clothing made out of breathable fabrics like cotton and linen is recommended. Women should bring skirts that go below the knee.

What to bring while traveling to Niger

What pack while traveling to Niger is one of the key aspects of your preparation as the country is hot and it has Islamic influence.

• Ziplock plastic bag to protect your things from dust
• European electrical adaptor
• Photocopies of visa
• Photocopies passport
• Light sleeping bag or sheet

Car hire and driving in  Niger

In Niger people drive on the Right You should check advice on your Government website before planning on driving  abroad in  Nigeria  as there are travel advisories in place for many areas of  Nigeria  and curfews in force in some parts of the country. Most Governments also recommend against self-driving in Nigeria.

Accommodation in Niger

The main capital Niamey has good hotels but outside Niamey, things start to get pretty local and rust so be prepared while traveling to Niger and don’t expect too much in terms of Luxury in Accommodation

Local food of  Niger

Staple foods include millet, rice, cassava, sorghum, maize, and beans. Couscous is saved for special occasions. Porridge, wheat dumplings, and beignets are some of Niger’s popular snacks.

Tipping while Travelling in Niger

Tipping is appreciated in Niger and, while a service charge is generally added to restaurant bills, extra tips are still appreciated. Taxi drivers, tour guides, barmen, and porters all take tips. A 10 percent tip is customary.

Further information for Niger

Visitors are treated like kings in Niger (there is a Koranic proverb to that effect), so be careful not to abuse the hospitality you will be shown. For the most part, try to accept all the small tokens and gestures (cokes, tea, small gifts, etc.) that are offered to you during your time in Niger. It really isn’t good to refuse too much and don’t think “these people are too poor to give me these things”. That is offensive as taking good care of guests is a point of honor and gives people great pleasure.

Safety of Niger

Please be advised that there are risks to know about when visiting Niger. Terrorism and general violence happen and can be targeted toward Westerners. While violence has dropped a bit in comparison to past years, it still happens on occasion. Remain alert and monitor media before arriving and while in the area. Terrorist groups operate in the areas bordering Mali, Libya, and throughout northern Niger. If travel is unavoidable, consult expert guidance and only stay at hotels with an armed security presence you can check the  US console  in Nigger for Updates.

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