Niger...The Land of the Tribes and Vistas
February 16 - February 23, 2026
Led by Professional Tour Lecturer, Mohamed Halouani

As one of the world’s poorest countries in Africa, Niger is a challenging destination, but a very rewarding experience for the few who wish to learn more about this fascinating country. Ancient Saharan trade routes have created a wonderful fusion of Arab and African traditions and provided a home to many ethnic groups including the nomadic tribes of Tuareg and Fulani. Situated along the eastern banks of the Niger River from where the country gets its name, lies Niamey, the capital and largest city of Niger. The city’s fantastic open-air markets provide ample opportunity for watching Tuareg Sonuri and Fulani tribes buy and sell colorful fruits and vegetables. At the Niger National Museum, one of the best in West Africa, discover cultural, ethnological, and archaeological artifacts from the region as well as a display of traditional dwellings from various cultures. See the impressive Grand Mosque with spectacular views of the surrounding city from the top of the minaret. In Kouré, see the last herds of an endemic subspecies of giraffe in West Africa and sail down the Niger River on a stylish pinnace to spot hippos while gliding past riverside pottery villages. The 15th century market town of Agadez was once an important trading center during the trans-Saharan caravan trade and is now one of the most important Tuareg cities in Niger. From the historic city center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, see the unique traditional mud brick structures including the town’s 88.5-foot-high minaret, and lose yourself in the maze of streets that divide its irregular shaped quarters. The Aïr Mountains are centered right in the heart of Tuareg culture, a large Berber ethnic group known as the “blue people ‘’ due to the indigo-dyed clothing that stain their skin. The beautiful oases towns and villages that occupy this region offer incredible scenes of lush fruit orchards surrounded by dramatic sand dunes. These mountains are also known for its rock art images that date back to around 6,000 B.C. Traverse the lunar-like landscape known as “the Moon” and explore the former French army fort, one of the starting points for caravanners that transported salt through the Ténéré Desert. Join us to discover the ancient cities, natural scenic beauty, fascinating nomadic cultures, and wildlife that make this welcoming country so captivating.

Can be combined with Mali and Burkina Faso tour (February 06 - February 15, 2026)

Trip Grade:
II Active – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable but busy schedule, and some very long rides. A few times you may be delayed by the security personnel at some check points and this necessitates a tolerant and patient attitude.

LODGING Level:
**-**** Basic to Superior - Lodges and hotels with simple amenities in Timnia and Agadez while refined service and comfort acceptable to western standards in Niamey hotel.

Important Special Trip Notes:

Tourist facilities are very limited in the remote regions and small villages you will be visiting. There are few first-class hotels outside the cities and hotel A/C do not cool a room to American standards of comfort.

Participants should understand that this trip involves long drives in hot weather over poorly maintained roads in 4x4 vehicles. The physical shape you are in will be an important factor in your enjoyment of the trip. There are dangers inherent in any expedition traveling to remote regions such as sickness and lack of modern medical facilities. If you have any chronic health problems, we recommend considering a different trip. Knowing the nature of traveling to remote areas, all travellers on this tour will require a high level of flexibility, tolerance, and willingness to go with the flow if things change.

By signing up for this tour, you are acknowledging a full understanding and acceptance of all terms and conditions and are admitting that you are in good physical and mental health and are equipped with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a tolerant and patient spirit to cope with the tour. Domestic flights may change last minute, forcing us to make necessary adjustments to the itinerary and the sequence of visits. We have the full right to substitute or replace hotels and sites or activities previously described in the itinerary without notice due to possible circumstances beyond our control. It is highly advisable to purchase travel protection insurance for this tour.