Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities require a visa. Apply at a Niger embassy before travel or obtain a visa on arrival at Niamey airport (processing can take days). Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond stay. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended.
Money & payments
Niger uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF). ATMs in Niamey accept major cards; they are rare elsewhere. Bring USD or EUR cash as backup. Exchange rates are better at banks. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside Niamey's top hotels.
SIM cards & internet
SIM cards from Maroc Telecom, Moov, and Airtel are available at the airport and shops. 4G in Niamey; 2G in other towns. Internet is slow and unreliable. Download maps and content before travel. Mobile money (Moov Money, Airtel) is expanding but cash is standard.
Getting around
Niamey taxis operate informally; negotiate fares. Shared minibuses (cars) connect interior towns on rough roads. Travel north is highly risky due to security; most advisories recommend against it. Hire a 4x4 with driver for southern travel. Niamey airport (NIM) is the main hub.
Health
Yellow fever, malaria, meningitis, typhoid, and dengue are present. Vaccinate before arrival (yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, meningococcal). Begin malaria prophylaxis. Tap water is unsafe; drink bottled water. Medical care is very basic; serious illness requires evacuation.
Language & etiquette
French is official. Hausa, Djerma, Tamasheq, and Fulani are spoken. Learn basic French greetings. Always greet before business. Handshakes are common. Respect for Islam is important; dress modestly and avoid eating/drinking in public during Ramadan.
When to go
Dry season (November-March) is best; temperatures are warm and skies are clear. Rainy season (June-September) brings afternoon storms. Hot season (April-May) is extremely hot and dusty with harmattan winds. December-February is coolest and most comfortable for travel.
Getting there
Niamey's Diori Hamani International Airport (NIM) connects via Air Senegal, Royal Air Maroc, and occasional Dakar flights. The Niger River provides seasonal passage. Overland routes from Mali and Nigeria offer Sahel immersion, though security varies by region and seasons.