When to go
The best time to travel to Niger is winter, from
December to mid-February, when the sun shines in the whole country, the air is dry and the temperature is usually acceptable. In the south, it can get definitely hot during the day even at this time, but nights remain cool. In the north, it can get cold at night, while generally, the temperature is pleasantly warm during the day.
In January, sand storms become more frequent, and in February, the heat begins to increase in the south, heading towards 40 °C (104 °F), so, all in all, the best month is
December.
What to pack
In
winter: bring light clothes for the day, long and made of natural fabric (cotton or linen), a desert turban for the wind-borne sand and dust, sunglasses (even graduated instead of contact lenses), a jacket and a sweater for the evening, desert boots or sandals, and a sweatshirt or sweater for boat excursions on the Niger River.
In
summer: in the desert, bring loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, long and made of natural fabric (cotton or linen), a desert turban, sunglasses, and comfortable and breathable shoes. A sweatshirt for the night and a sleeping bag to sleep outdoors. In Niamey and the south, light clothes, an umbrella or a light raincoat for the rain showers.
It's better for women to avoid shorts and miniskirts.
Back to the climate of
Niger