Niamey

Niamey, the capital of Niger, spreads along the banks of the great Niger river in the southwest of the country, a relaxed and characterful Sahel city. Its life centres on the mighty river, best enjoyed from the bridges or a pirogue at sunset, and on its lively markets, above all the Grand Marché, brimming with textiles, crafts, silver and produce. The excellent National Museum, set in green grounds, showcases the country's rich cultures, crafts and even dinosaur fossils from the Sahara. With its wide river vistas, warm hospitality and blend of Hausa, Zarma, Tuareg and Fulani cultures, Niamey offers a genuine window on the life of the Sahel.

What you actually see

• The Niger river - the great river and its sunset pirogue trips.
• The Grand Marché - the lively central market of crafts and produce.
• The National Museum - the cultures, crafts and Saharan fossils.
• The riverside - the bridges and green banks of the city.

When to go

November to February, the cool dry season, is the most pleasant time to explore Niamey, avoiding the intense pre-rains heat; the mild winter suits the markets, museum and riverside, and the Niger is especially lovely at sunset. Evenings on the river are a highlight in any season.

Honest expectations

Niamey is a modest, low-rise Sahel capital rather than a city of grand monuments, so its appeal lies in the river, markets, museum and everyday culture more than famous sights. As a relaxed, characterful capital on one of Africa's mightiest rivers, a real window on the cultures of the Sahel, though, Niamey is a warm and genuine place to experience.

Nearby

The Niger river, W National Park and the surrounding Sahel lie around the city.