Travel Advice
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Country Description

Niger is a developing, inland African nation whose northern area includes a part of the Sahara Desert. Tourism facilities are minimal, particularly outside of Niamey.

Entry Requirements

A visa is required. Travelers should obtain the latest information on customs and entry requirements from the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate.

Areas of Instability

Travel in the northern and far eastern areas of Niger is dangerous and should only be undertaken by air or protected convoy. Despite the peace agreement between the Government of Niger and the Tuareg rebel groups, there is a continuing threat of sporadic armed conflict and violent banditry. Those wishing to travel to the communities of Tera, Tillaberi, Ouallam, Filingue, Tahoua, Keita, Bouza, Dakoro, Tanout, and Nguigmi must receive permission from the local embassy. Areas in Niger's far east are also prone to sporadic violence.

Medical Facilities

Medical facilities are poor in Niger, particularly outside the city of Niamey. Medicines are in short supply, and doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical evacuation, to be useful.

Information on Crime

Niamey is a critical crime post. Tourists should not walk alone around the Gaweye Hotel, National Museum, and on or near the Kennedy Bridge at any time. This area is especially prone to muggings (day and night) and should be avoided. Recent criminal events in Niger have included carjackings, home invasions, and muggings. Armed bandits are still active in northern and eastern Niger, especially on roads between major cities. Caution and common sense must be used at all times in order to avoid thieves and pick-pockets.

The loss or theft abroad of a passport should be reported immediately to local police and to ypur nearest embassy or consulate.

Dress Restrictions

Local culture and Islamic tradition encourage conservative dress for both men and women. There have been incidents of harassment of African women wearing Western clothes in the conservative towns along the southern border with Nigeria. Travelers should be careful in choosing their attire.

Photography Restrictions

Tourists are free to take pictures anywhere in Niger, except near military installations, radio and television stations, the Presidency Building, the airport, and the Kennedy Bridge. Tourists should also not photograph political and student demonstrations.

Currency Regulations

There are no laws restricting foreign exchange transactions in Niger. The CFA franc, the money Niger shares with several other West African Francophone countries, is fully convertible into French francs.

Road Conditions

Travelers should exercise caution when traveling in Niger as traffic accidents are frequent. Care must be taken on Niger's paved and unpaved roads to avoid farm animals, slow moving donkey carts and broken down vehicles. These dangers are amplified at night. Banditry is a continuing problem in northern and eastern Niger. There has been a reported increase in carjackings and highway robbery occurring in remote areas of the country.

Telephone Service

Due to poor line quality, callers often experience delays in getting a telephone line and telefaxes are often garbled.

Drug Penalties

Travellers are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

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