Niger

It's the landscape that makes an impression in Niger. There's black volcanic mountains towering over green oases, cascading waterfalls, desert cities with wide tree-lined boulevards, camels, and the dramatic, if lonely, beauty of the desert.

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Generally speaking, Niger is either hot or hotter than hell; average temperatures are around 30°C (86°F), but are capable of reaching over 50°C (122°F) between March and June. The air is so hot during these months that rain evaporates before it hits the ground. December through to February are cooler months and the temperature can actually drop to freezing in the night-time desert.

Rains dampen the south between late May and September, with August being the wettest time. The south's annual rainfall is usually 550mm (22in), while the north is lucky to receive 150mm (6in). The harmattan winds usually arrive just before the rains and can cut visibility down to almost nothing.

Transport

Getting there and away

The cheapest way of getting to Niger from Europe is the charter flights operated out of Paris and Marseille. A number of options are available if coming into Niger from other African countries. Flights from select cities within east, north and west Africa leave on a regular basis, but going overland by bus is also a viable option. Bush taxis can haul you long distances around Africa, but most have trouble crossing borders. A combination of buses and bush taxis is sometimes the best way to get to Niger from other African countries.

Getting around

Despite Agadez Airport reopening, there are no scheduled internal flights operating in Niger. You can try to charter your own flight, which will take you anywhere with an airstrip, but this can burn a big hole in your pocket. Large, reasonably priced buses, run by the government and by several private companies, are the most comfortable way to get around Niger. Ubiquitous bush taxis are even cheaper than the buses, but much slower and much less comfortable.

The major roads in Niger are in fair condition and petrol is cheaper than in surrounding countries, so getting around by car is always an option. Before the peace agreement between the government and Tuareg in 1995, all cars had to travel in a convoy with military protection. While convoys and military protection are no longer needed, travel north of Agadez requires a Feuille de Route (official itinerary), which are only issued by licensed Nigerien travel agencies. To acquire one, you must take a licensed guide.

The airport at Niamey is about 12km (7mi) from the city centre and getting a taxi will cost between 2500 and 10,000 (5.00 and 20.00), depending on your bargaining powers.

Health & Legal Requirements

Visas overview

Visas are required by everyone except nationals of some West African countries. There are few Niger embassies around the world so getting a visa requires careful planning, but they can be obtained in a limited number of West African countries.