Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Enhanced Security Screening
Due to ongoing regional security concerns, all travelers to Niger must complete an online pre-arrival security questionnaire at least 72 hours before departure. This free process helps streamline entry and is mandatory for visa processing.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Niger, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Always verify with your issuing country's guidelines, as some nationalities face stricter re-entry rules upon return.
Children under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized consent letter to avoid delays at immigration.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of ECOWAS member states (like Nigeria and Ghana) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. However, most other nationalities, including those from the US, EU, and Canada, require a visa in advance.
Short-term transit without a visa is possible for up to 24 hours at Niamey Airport, but proof of onward travel is essential.
Visa Applications
Apply for a tourist visa (€50-100 fee) through the Niger embassy in your home country or online via the official e-visa portal, providing documents like a yellow fever vaccination certificate, proof of accommodation, and financial means (at least €30/day).
Processing typically takes 5-15 days; expedited options are available for an extra fee in urgent cases.
Border Crossings
Air entry via Niamey International Airport is the safest and most straightforward, with thorough security checks. Overland borders with Algeria, Nigeria, and Mali require caution due to security risks—always use official crossings and travel in convoys if advised.
Visa on arrival is available at Niamey Airport for some nationalities, but pre-approval is recommended to avoid long waits or denials.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is mandatory, covering medical evacuation (essential in remote areas), trip delays, and activities like desert safaris. Policies should include coverage for political unrest and start from €10/day from international providers.
Ensure your policy covers helicopter evacuations, as medical facilities in Niger are limited outside major cities.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 30 days can be obtained at the Direction Générale de la Police in Niamey for a fee of around €50, requiring proof of sufficient funds and a valid reason like extended research or family visits.
Apply at least one week before expiration to allow time for processing and avoid overstay fines up to €200.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Niger uses the West African CFA franc (XOF). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Niamey by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for regional flights from Europe or West Africa.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at roadside stalls or markets for affordable meals under XOF 2,000, skipping tourist-oriented restaurants to save up to 60% on food expenses.
Fresh fruits and grilled meats from local vendors provide authentic flavors and nutritional value at minimal cost.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for shared bush taxis or minibuses for intercity travel at XOF 5,000-10,000 per leg, far cheaper than private hires.
In Niamey, daily moto-taxi passes can cost under XOF 3,000, covering multiple short trips efficiently.
Free Attractions
Explore natural wonders like the Niger River banks, traditional villages, and desert dunes at no cost, immersing in Sahelian culture without entry fees.
Many community-led tours in Agadez offer free walking introductions, with optional tips supporting local guides.
Card vs Cash
Cash is king in most areas; ATMs are scarce outside Niamey, so withdraw CFA francs upon arrival for better rates.
Cards are accepted at major hotels, but carry small bills to avoid change issues in rural markets.
Group Tours for Discounts
Join organized group excursions to sites like the Ténéré Desert for XOF 20,000/person, sharing costs on vehicles and guides.
Advance booking through local agencies can reduce fees by 20-30% compared to individual arrangements.
Smart Packing for Niger
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton layers for extreme heat, including long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection and cultural modesty in conservative areas.
Include a wide-brimmed hat, scarf for dust storms, and quick-dry fabrics to handle daily temperatures often exceeding 40°C.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C), solar charger for remote areas with unreliable power, offline GPS maps, and a rugged phone case against sand.
Download French language apps and satellite communicators for areas without cell service, like the Sahara.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a robust first-aid kit with anti-diarrheal meds, antimalarials, and rehydration salts for heat-related issues.
Include high-SPF sunscreen (50+), DEET insect repellent, and a water purification system for safe drinking in rural spots.
Travel Gear
Pack a durable daypack for desert hikes, collapsible water bottle (2L+ capacity), headlamp for evening camps, and lightweight sleeping bag for overnights.
Secure copies of passport and visas in a waterproof pouch, plus a money belt for cash in remote regions with limited banking.
Footwear Strategy
Choose closed-toe sandals or lightweight hiking boots with good ventilation for sandy terrains and rocky paths in the Air Mountains.
Extra socks and blister treatment are vital for long walks; avoid open shoes to protect against scorpions and hot sand.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized biodegradable soap, moisturizer for dry skin, and wet wipes for water-scarce areas; don't forget electrolyte packets.
A compact multi-tool and sewing kit help with minor repairs on extended trips through nomadic regions.
When to Visit Niger
Cool Dry Season (November-February)
Best time for travel with comfortable temperatures of 20-30°C, ideal for exploring Niamey markets and W National Park wildlife without excessive heat.
Fewer rains mean better road access for overland adventures to Agadez and the Tuareg festivals.
Hot Dry Season (March-May)
Peak heat reaches 40-45°C, suitable for early morning desert camel treks in the Ténéré but challenging for long hikes.
Clear skies enhance stargazing in remote areas, though hydration and AC transport are crucial.
Rainy Season Onset (June-August)
Short bursts of rain (25-35°C) bring lush greenery to the Sahel, perfect for birdwatching and cultural festivals in Zinder.
Roads can flood, so focus on urban experiences or guided tours with 4x4 vehicles.
Late Rainy Season (September-October)
Transitioning weather (30-35°C) with occasional showers supports harvest celebrations and easier access to remote villages.
Lower tourist numbers mean more authentic interactions, but malaria risk increases—use prophylaxis.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF). Fixed rate to euro; ATMs limited outside Niamey. Carry cash for rural areas.
- Language: French is official; Hausa, Zarma, and Tamajaq widely spoken. English limited to urban hotels.
- Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT), UTC+1
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C plugs (European two-pin); power outages common—bring backups.
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire; 184 for ambulance in Niamey
- Tipping: Not customary but appreciated; 5-10% in restaurants or XOF 500-1,000 for guides/porters
- Water: Bottled water essential; tap unsafe. Avoid ice in drinks outside reputable establishments
- Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock up on basics. Look for "Pharmacie" signs