When visiting Niger, Nigeriens treat their visitors like Kings. Their religion compels them to do so. While it’s certainly up to you to feel one way or the other about this treatment, you’d need to be extraordinarily careful with the way you express your sentiments, to avoid falling foul of local laws and customs.
In case you’re planning to visit Niger in the near future, it’s a good idea to learn as much as possible about the country, to know what is considered good or bad. Fortunately, this article sets out to provide this knowledge.
Security Challenges
The first thing to know about the country is that it is not safe at all, particularly for visitors. Political instability over the years has emboldened several terrorist groups to claim ownership of huge swathes of land, and some places can only be referred to as lawless.
Cases of kidnappings and murders by Boko Haram and Al Qaeda are rife, especially the further you get from the capital.
Avoid driving through these areas late at night in a private vehicle, stay away from markets and when it gets dark, use taxis, and maintain a high level of diligence, you should be alright. However, try not to look like a tourist.
Health Concerns When Visiting Niger
The biggest challenge to your health in this country is likely to be dehydration. So, be sure to drink lots and lots of water. Not just any kind of water though!
Tap water, stream water and any other type of local water has the tendency to make you sick. Drink only bottled water and wear clothes that are loose-fitting but conservative, along with big hats.
The second biggest issue is mosquitoes. They are present in their numbers in Niger country, and the strain of malaria they cause has grown resistant to chloroquine. Don’t go without repellents and possibly, a mosquito net.
Visa Requirements When Visiting Niger
Certain countries and her citizens are exempt from needing a visa when visiting Niger. However, if you happen to not come from any of those countries, you’d need a visa.
The visa should be legitimate; Niger frowns seriously at any foul play here. Also, your passport should be valid up to six months prior to the date of your application. At the immigration office, you’d also need to present documents that prove that you’ve been vaccinated against Yellow Fever, and another one that gives you a clean bill of health from Covid19. You may also obtain a visa on arrival.
The People Of Niger
The country is predominantly Muslim, so Nigeriens will treat you exactly the way the Koran asks them to treat visitors: with respect. However, this needs to be reciprocated, to avoid falling foul of local traditions.
Dressing is a touchy issue here, so be careful to always dress modestly. Nigeriens consider revealing clothes offensive and may react with extreme prejudice when they find instances of this.
Also, try not to drink in public as alcohol is forbidden here. There are lots of instances where the Nigerien society and customs can seem backward and primitive, but it’s best to not voice out your concerns in the country.
