Overview |
Niger is a landlocked country in the heart of Africa most famous
for its diverse cultures and oases of wildlife amidst its mostly
arid, desert landscape.
The capital city is Niamey, a pleasant, fairly modern settlement
with great open-air markets and a picturesque position along the
Niger River. The National Museum is worth a visit, mostly for the
impressive artisans collective which produces high-quality goods
for fair but surprisingly non-negotiable prices.
Travel can be arduous as the roads are mostly unpaved and potholed,
plus banditry amounts to a night time curfews for cars. It is also
astoundingly hot.
The country's top attraction is W National Park, a UNESCO World
Heritage site, and home to abundant wildlife. Koure, south-east of
Niamey is famous for its herd of giraffe, the last wild herd in
West Africa. Other sites worth visiting are the old trading centres
of Agadez with its vibrant Touareg and black African cultures, and
Zinder with its maze-like old town and interesting Sultan's
Palace.
Niger was a former French colony, achieving independence in 1960.
It suffers from periodic droughts, widespread corruption and poorly
developed human capital, all which conspire to make this one of the
poorest countries in the world. Niger also has the tragic
distinction of having the highest fertility rate in the world (7.2
births per woman) and one of its highest infant mortality
rates.
Apart from aid workers and businessmen the only visitors Niger sees
are intrepid backpackers and adventurers. Those that do take the
trouble to visit report meeting some of Africa's most friendly and
interesting people.