Bilma

Niger, Africa

Bilma, located in the heart of the Nigerien desert, is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences. As the gateway to the vast Tenere Desert, visitors can experience the stunning beauty of sand dunes, salt flats, and traditional Tuareg culture. Adventure seekers can journey through the arid surroundings, interacting with nomadic tribes and exploring ancient trade routes. Whether stargazing under the clear desert skies or enjoying local hospitality, Bilma offers a distinctive experience that captivates every traveler.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Other

Airport

Manu Dayak

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Bilma

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Bilma Oasis

Discover the stunning landscapes and palm groves.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Ténéré Desert

Experience the vastness of the Sahara's stunning landscape.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover local Tuareg culture

Engage with the vibrant Tuareg community and traditions.

No booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Bilma Festival

Join locals celebrating music, dance, and culture.

Booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local cuisine

Taste delicious traditional dishes and street food.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the ancient ruins of Bilma

Explore historical remnants of a bygone era.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go sandboarding in the dunes

Ride the thrilling sand dunes of the Sahara.

No booking required
8

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Engage in camel trekking

Explore the desert on a traditional camel trek.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit local artisan shops

Shop for unique crafts and textiles made by locals.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Witness desert wildlife

Spot unique species adapted to the Sahara.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Hausa

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Djerma Stew

Spicy meat and vegetable stew. (National dish)

Jollof Rice

VE

Rice cooked with tomatoes and spices.

Fufu

VE

Starchy dough, often made from cassava.

VE

Millet or sorghum porridge, staple food.

Brochettes

Grilled skewers of meat, often spiced.

Phrases to learn

English

Hausa

Hello

Sannu

(Sahn-noo)

Yes/No

I / A'a

(Ee / Ah-ah)

Thank you

Nagode

(Nah-go-day)

Excuse me

Gafara dai

(Gah-fah-rah dai)

How much?

Nawa?

(Nah-wah)