Niger’s natural landscape is what travelers generally seek out, and we too think
it’s simply breathtaking. Despite being one of West Africa’s largest countries,
Niger is among the least populated; moving around is easier here compared with
doing so in other highly populated or congested countries in Africa. The
country’s population is concentrated around the Niger River, where the country’s
capital, Niamey, is located.
The main ethnic groups in Niger are the Hausa, who account for roughly half of
the population, and the other group, split between such nomadic tribes as the
Fulani and Tuareg, as well as the Djerma-Songahi.
Whether you’re traveling to see the many mosques, the sparkling Niger River, or
the various animals, you are bound to find something here that you can’t find
anywhere else in Africa.
WHAT TO DO IN NIGER
1. Boating on the Niger River: The
Niger River is known for hippo spotting. Plan a boat ride down this body of
water for a day (or even a few days) to take in the animal sights.
2. Dinosaurs in Agadez : This
bustling city is known for its numerous dinosaur-tracking expeditions and
fossils. The excavation sites are worth exploring, so plan at least one full day
to check them out.
3. Grand Mosque: The
Grand Mosque of Agadez is not built in a typical Islamic fashion, with tall
minarets and domes. This sand-colored triangular tower, built in the 1500s and
rebuilt in the 1800s, is one of the iconic sites of Agadez. The single tower,
rising above the flat skyline of the city, is a must-see.
4. Markets in Niamey: Spend
an afternoon and get lost in the Grande Marché and Petit Marché. Snag some great
deals on clothes, jewelry, art, and various unique items.
5. The National Museum of Niger: Given
its entrance fee of only $2, you have absolutely no reason not to visit this
treasure trove in Niamey. Learn about the ancient culture of Niger; see dinosaur
bones that were discovered in Niger and plenty of traditional art.
WHEN TO GO
Considering that Niger is one of the hottest countries in Africa, it is best to
plan your trip according to what kind of heat you think you can handle. Niger
has two seasons: the rainy season lasts from June to September, and the majority
of rainfall occurs between June and August. The dry season, between October and
May, tends to be dryer and cooler. We recommend traveling between December and
February.
Two festivals, the Cure
Salee and
the Wodaabe
Gerewol,
are among the world’s most colorful and exciting, and we recommend checking
their dates before you plan your trip to Niger.
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