In a twist of an almost hilarious nickname, Niger is the most overlooked country when it comes to vacation. Yes! Everyone is easily fascinated by multiple photos of places they find on social media. It’s all completely normal, and no one can judge this kind of attitude towards traveling. But listen! Trodding Niger – off the beaten path – means there will be less information about it available to you – therefore, there will be few solid blog posts or evidence about your destination. How insane is that? While maybe it’s too crazy, one thing is for sure Niger may be the best decision you could ever make. You will see the rewards are worth the extra effort.
The country’s mix of people, cultures, wildlife, and landscape will make you wonder what else you might be missing in a destination that’s too diverse to see as a whole. Niger offer -deeper, richer, and more fulfilling experiences. From rugged beauty, spectacular historical landmarks, magical lakes, and buzzing rivers. Niger has a little bit of everything to satisfy a serious wanderlust of all ages. It is famous for its soothing culture and Gerewol festival – which will transform you from a jaded commuter into a free spirit or open your mind through performance and music. You don’t want to miss out on this glorious experience, do you?
Life is too short to miss out on this destination. But wait! Would it not be more fascinating if you realize it’s a dream come true having immersed yourself literally in a different culture and quite an environment. Now, that’s one great way to celebrate your – first off the beaten path – swathe!
Highlights
Niger: Niamey
Population: 23,845,453 People
Area 1.268 million km²
Major Religion: Islam
Official Language: French and Arabic
Climate: November and January are cooler, making it the best time to visit Niger.
Dialing code: +227
Niger Currency
Currency: West African CFA franc
Symbols: XOF
DESTINATION AND CULTURE
Gerewol Festivals
Gerewol is an annual courtship ritual competition among the Woodaabe Fula people of Niger. Here every guy wants to vie for the attention of young married women. Elaborate makeup, darkened lips, painted faces, plaited hair, eye shadow, beads to show wealth, and bird plumes headgear to emphasize height.
While men dance before the women, a jury of 3 beautiful ladies who are usually the daughters of past winners, have the task of choosing the most attractive male that suits their taste. At the climax of the Yanke, each of the juries selects a winner who she takes as her lover – an affair that might last a day or become a marriage. Gerewol affairs carry no moral restriction or sigma, so a married woman can get picked and end up with a second husband, while sometimes a woman may lose his husband to another.
Niger cuisine
You will never go hungry, as Niger is renowned for its sumptuous spread of yummy food and drink. It is also a hotbed of hospitality with diverse restaurants serving different food across the globe – at some of the best prices. You don’t have an excuse for not visiting Niger!
Spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and saffron have been introduced into the cuisine after decades of trade with Arabs, while dishes with a French twist are also popular in Niger.
Niger National Museum
The sprawling “Musee National du Niger” is one of West Africa’s standouts and is a real must-visit for all architecture and history enthusiasts. Grab your camera and let yourself be inspired by this masterpiece elegance!
Tenere Desert
Tenere Desert is a south-central area of the Sahara, stretching from western Chad to northeastern Niger. Here, you can cruise the desert on a camel to experience the beauty of a truly desolate masterpiece. The desert also has a lot going for it in terms of iconic photogenic glow. You will love it here!
Niger River
Niger River is a must-see during a visit to Niger. The river is immense and full of life. Here, you can set out on a sailing trip on a traditional wooden boat and look out for swimming hippos, and the most mesmerizing sunsets. But, if sailing is not your thing, you can take in the river view from your room. Simply – relax, rejuvenate, set priorities, and meditate. The result; life is beautiful here!
Blue Mountains
This scenic mountain range is in the northeastern section of Air Massif and Niger. It provides a perfect setting for rock climbing, caving, canyoning, canoeing, mountain biking, abseiling, horseback riding, and camping. If you are less adventurous, you can view the mountain top features via scenic lookouts.
Mayanka Falls
The experience of going up the hill through a non-definite path is an experience that will linger in your mind for a very long period. Mayanka Falls is a perfect place for hiking, mountaineering, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities.
Agadez
Hands down. Agadez’s dripping beauty is also treasured by UNESCO World Heritage. This timeless masterpiece in the Air region of Northern Niger is the real deal for the avid history buff. Its dramatic beauty will render you speechless!
Zinder
Zinder is an old town located in Niger. This place is a beautiful merge of the traditional culture and the new modernized trends. The town has various sites and features which can be visited if you are a history lover and love the places that showcase traditional culture and ethics.
W National Park
The park is famous for its large mammals, including buffalo, baboons, caracal, cheetahs, elephants, lions, hippos, warthogs, and others.
How to get a visa to Niger
• Fill out and sign the application form. Attach your passport (2 coloreds) or travel document valid for at least six months on entry with one blank visa page. Also, hold proof of onward/return airline tickets, and documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit to Niger!
Helpful Travelling tips
• Book through an agent directly to save costs. Since OTA’s takes commissions
• Currency and Banking. The currency of Niger is the West African CFA franc. Approximately 1CFA= $ 0.0017
• You need to bring an unlocked smartphone with you. You can get a sim card for your stay, which will allow you to add minutes and be able to call your family or friends.
• Dress Modest