There are many lively markets around Niger, where bargaining is expected. Look for items made by the Tuaregs: elaborate ceremonial knives and swords, jewelry (particularly the 21 crosses of the Tuareg tribes) and leather goods. Also to be found are colorful fabrics, woven blankets and copperware.
Shopping Hours: Monday-Friday 8 am-noon and 4-7 pm; Saturday 8 am-noon.
Day By Day
The two usual ways to visit Niger are by escorted overland tours or organized independent travel. Escorted overland tours usually are just passing through on a much longer itinerary and cross Niger from Arlit to Zinder or Arlit to Niamey. Either can be rewarding, but keep in mind that going overland is really only for rugged travelers who have a lot of time (the entire overland trip can be up to four months long) and that organized independent travel (using private drivers) can be quite expensive. Overland itineraries aren't generally flexible—you go where they take you. Organized independent travel allows more freedom. (For the most adventurous travelers, who want the real "Niger experience," it is possible to see the country using buses and taxis.) We suggest the following:
Day 1—Arrive Niamey.
Day 2—Niamey.
Day 3—Start early and drive to Agadez.
Day 4—Drive to Zinder (this is a 10-hour drive).
Day 5—Zinder.
Day 6—Start early for the very long drive to Dosso.
Day 7—Visit Park W. Overnight near park.
Day 8—Park W. Overnight near park or, if your flight departs early the next day, return to Niamey.
Day 9—Return to Niamey and depart Niger.
