Tenere Desert

Niger, Africa

The Tenere Desert, a breathtaking expanse of arid beauty in Niger, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including towering sand dunes and vast salt flats. Known as the 'Land of the Empty,' it offers unique experiences such as camel trekking, ancient petroglyphs, and vibrant local nomadic culture. The incredible stargazing opportunities in this remote area also captivate adventurers and nature lovers alike, making it a true gem for those seeking solitude and an authentic wilderness experience.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Desert

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

8 Best Things to Do in Tenere Desert

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Erg of Tenere

Discover vast sand dunes and stunning sunsets.

No booking required
2

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Aïr Mountains

Hike through rugged terrain and unique landscapes.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Tuareg Culture

Engage with the nomadic Tuareg people and traditions.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Sandboarding in the Dunes

Try thrilling sandboarding on the Tenere's dunes.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Niger River

Relax by the river and enjoy the local scenery.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Giraffes of Niger

See the majestic giraffes in their natural habitat.

Booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Air and Tenere Natural Reserves

Observe diverse wildlife in protected areas.

Booking required
8

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience a Night Under the Stars

Camp and stargaze in the clear desert sky.

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)