Located in Western Africa, Niger is a landlocked country named after the Niger River and bordered by Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso and Mali among other countries. Niger, a former French colony is one of the world's least developed countries and is characteristic of a vast desert landscape and nomadic tribes. French is the official language for all the slightly over 13 million inhabitants, although Hausa, Fulfude and Zarma are some of the other widely used languages here. Niger has two main airports, one in the capital Niamey and the other in Agadez. Roads solely facilitate moving around Niger, with buses and car hire being the main and most convenient means. Bush taxis are also available for intercity transport and are usually cheaper but slower than buses.



Niger's top tourist attraction is the W? National Park outside of the capital. It will treat you to maverick sights of wildlife in undisturbed wilderness from buffalos, elephants, lions, hyenas, and baboons engrossed in their day to day life. This national park however comes second to the Niger River stretching all the way to the Mali border of the W? National Park. The combination of authentic, thriving wildlife at the park drawing life from the Niger River is one spectacular view that Niger has to offer. The Air Mountains are another major attraction in Niger. Despite their high latitude, they are known for diverse variety of wildlife including leopards, lions and giraffes. The springs at Igouloulef and Tafadek have an absolutely relaxing ambience while the Tenere Desert will lead you to a different landscape characterised by dunes, desolate plains and scattered vegetation. In the capital Niamey, there are numerous places of interest too including the Small and Great Market, the National Museum and the Great Mosque. At the Hippodrome, you can cheer on as the horses and camels indulge in thrilling races.

Zinder is a lively Niger town, and her former capital. Being an old town, it has numerous historical establishments and is most famous for the Sultan's Palace and a landmark mosque. Dosso, another popular ancient town dates back to the 13th century and is popular for an extraordinarily beautiful and historically rich palace as well as numerous festivals. Across all attractions of Niger and its cities and towns, there are tonnes of interesting things to partake in. These include canoeing or taking a motorboat for a calming ride along the Niger River, fishing particularly in April to September which is the main season and exciting festivals around Niger throughout the year.

Niger cuisine revolves around traditional delicacies but international cuisine is also available including European and Asian. Beef and mutton are some of the national specialties as well as foura, prepared from fermented millet, milk, sugar and spices. Tea is the county's main drink and alcohol is served restrictively due to Niger's muslim beliefs. Accommodation in Niger is not as readily available hence booking in advance is highly recommended. There are good hotels though in the capital Niamey, Agadez, Ayorou, La Tapoa and Maradi. Local hotels are also available on a first come first served basis.

Niger is a potential tourist destination and you can set off to discover the African beauty that this country holds. As you leave, visit one of the local markets for authentic African artefacts from carvings to jewellery, calabashes and beautiful multi-coloured blankets.