Niger Country Report

Niger is an EXTREME RISK country. Violent crime, banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism present serious risks for travellers in Niger.

Essential Precautions:

• Avoid street food in general, and only drink bottled water.
• Avoid travelling to border regions and military "no-go zones."
• Use only secure transportation.
• Do not display overt forms of wealth.
• Keep track of bags, purses, and backpacks as pickpocketing is a problem.
• Avoid travelling through unlit areas or travelling alone at night.

Insurance becomes a priority if you intend to travel or work in Niger. Travelling to Niger involves certain risks due to security concerns, political instability, and environmental factors. The situation can change rapidly, so it's essential to consult up-to-date travel advisories from your government or reliable sources like the U.S. State Department, UK Foreign Office, or your country's equivalent. Here are some factors to consider:

Crime and Security Concerns

A military coup carried out in July 2023 raised concerns of all-out conflict in the region; however, there seems to be little real appetite for Niger's neighbours to intervene. Travel should be reconsidered in the near term due to risks from unrest and general instability following the coup. Crimes such as robbery, theft, and assault are very prevalent in Niger. Foreigners are frequently targeted for robberies and thefts due to perceived affluence. The Goudel, Les Roniers, Kennedy Bridge, National Museum, Petit Marché, and Gaweye Hotel areas of the capital, Niamey, are particularly dangerous. Kidnapping poses an extreme risk to travellers, especially in W National Park and the regions bordering Mali, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria. Banditry is prevalent in northern and eastern Niger, particularly on the Ayorou-Gao road, the route between Agadez and Timia, and in the Aïr and Ténéré regions. The threat of terrorism is very high in Niger as extremist groups, such as Boko Haram and Ansaru, are active in the country. Travellers are required to get approval from local authorities for travel outside of Niamey.

Terrorism

Niger has experienced terrorist attacks, including bombings, shootings, and kidnappings, targeting government facilities, security forces, and civilian populations. Travellers should be vigilant, avoid areas with a history of terrorist activity, and follow guidance from local authorities and security experts.

Political Instability

Niger has faced political instability and governance challenges, including military coups and political unrest. While the country has made progress toward democratic governance, political tensions and disputes remain. Travellers should be aware of the political situation and avoid participating in political activities or demonstrations.

Medical & Health Risk

Medical facilities do not meet international standards of care in the capital, Niamey, and are extremely deficient throughout the rest of the country. In the event of serious illness or injury, it may be necessary to seek medical treatment outside the country. Emergency services are extremely limited in Niamey and essentially non-existent outside of the capital. Niger suffers from chronic shortages of medicine, trained staff, and equipment. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are common. Cholera, hepatitis, meningococcal meningitis, rabies, tuberculosis, typhoid, and diarrheal illnesses are prevalent in Niger, and malaria is endemic. The tap water is not safe to drink. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted healthcare access and quality, exacerbating existing deficiencies.

Environmental Challenges

Niger is susceptible to flooding, droughts, and heatwaves. During the rainy season, which runs from June to September, intermittent flooding is prevalent and makes many routes impassable. Droughts are common and contribute to brush fires and dust storms. The air quality is poor due to unregulated emissions and trash disposal, worsening from October to March. During the Harmattan season, which runs from late November to mid-March, Niger experiences dust storms that can seriously impair transportation and negatively affect travellers with respiratory conditions. From March to October, Niger is prone to serious heatwaves, with temperatures reaching up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius).

Transport & Infrastructure Risk

The road system in Niger is generally poor. The majority of roads in Niamey are unpaved and become washed out easily during floods. Most taxis and buses are poorly maintained and prone to dangerous mechanical failures. Buses and shared taxis carry the additional risk of robbery or theft. Local drivers are often aggressive and disregard traffic rules and signage. Driving outside of Niamey will likely require an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The Nigerien government disallows travel between Niger and Algeria or Libya except through the Assamaka/Arlit and Toummo/Madama/Seguemine routes. Due to a lack of regulation and the ubiquitous use of substandard materials, buildings are prone to collapse and fire. The electrical grid is unreliable.
Overall, while Niger offers cultural attractions and natural beauty, travellers should be aware of the risks and challenges associated with travelling to the country. By staying informed, exercising caution, and following guidance from local authorities and security experts, travellers can mitigate risks and have a safe and enjoyable experience in Niger.

Choosing the Right Cover for Your Trip to Niger

Many insurers exclude cover for travel to Niger. It is vital to check that your policy includes journeys to this nation. Confirm if your policy coverage includes medical expenses, repatriation, crisis management, and kidnap-for-ransom cover. Standards of medical care do not meet international standards. It will be necessary to evacuate you for medical and other critical care.

Required Vaccinations:

• Yellow Fever

Pre-Trip Checklist:

• Carry a copy of your passport.
• Bring a necessary supply of prescription medication, as well as a copy of your prescription.
• Bring a copy of your prescription in case medication is lost or stolen
• Install a VPN on all devices.
• Consider bringing mosquito repellent, long sleeves, and pants.

LGBT Travel Advice for Niger

Travelling to Niger as an LGBTQ+ individual presents significant risks due to conservative societal attitudes, legal frameworks, and safety concerns. Overall, LGBTQ+ travellers to Niger should exercise extreme caution. It's advisable to research local laws and customs, avoid overt displays of affection in public, and maintain a low profile regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Connecting with local LGBTQ+ communities or support networks is not recommended due to the risks involved. As travel to Niger is discouraged due to security concerns, LGBTQ+ individuals should prioritise their safety and consider alternative travel destinations.