Niger

Political Instability

There's ongoing political instability in Niger following a military takeover in July 2023. An interim military administration is in place. There's a heightened military presence around government buildings, including the Presidential Palace, and critical infrastructure. The security situation remains highly volatile.

Protests and civil unrest may occur at any time and can turn violent quickly and without warning. Avoid government buildings, demonstrations, large crowds and political gatherings. Movement restrictions may be implemented by authorities at short notice.

Some land borders remain closed, and others may close without warning. Trying to leave Niger by land borders is likely to be dangerous. Do not travel to several countries neighbouring Niger, including Burkina Faso, Mali, Libya, and Chad. We also advise do not travel to the border areas with Algeria, Nigeria and Benin. 

More information:

• Travel advice for Algeria
• Travel advice for Benin
• Travel advice for Burkina Faso
• Travel advice for Chad
• Travel advice for Libya
• Travel advice for Mali

If you can't depart or decide to stay in Niger, limit your movements and avoid protests. Keep a supply of water, food and medicine. Stay in contact with family and friends.

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent without warning. Security forces have used force to break up protests. Demonstrations often occur near:

• government buildings
• universities
• public parks

Mobile phone and internet connections may be disrupted during civil unrest. Movement restrictions may be implemented.

Clashes between security forces and armed groups have happened in many regions of Niger. Several have initiated states of emergency in response.

Curfews may be in place in some towns. They can change at short notice.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Niger:

• avoid political rallies, protests, demonstrations and large gatherings
• if caught up in a protest, leave as soon as it's safe
• monitor international and reliable local media for possible unrest
• obey curfews
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

There's a threat of terrorism in Niger, including in the capital, Niamey. Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur without warning in places visited by foreigners.

Many attacks have occurred in recent years, and more attacks are likely. Be aware of your surroundings, be alert to threats and exercise caution, especially around: 

• hospitality venues, including hotels, cafes, restaurants and bars
• locations popular with tourists and foreigners, including national parks
• transport hubs
• religious sites and places of worship
• sporting and cultural events
• shopping centres, supermarkets and markets
• government buildings
• security facilities
• international organisations
• diplomatic buildings
• police stations

If there's a terrorist attack:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• avoid large crowds and the affected area in case of secondary attacks

Attacks along any of Niger's borders are also possible.

If you decide to travel to Niger despite our advice:

• get professional security advice
• arrange suitable security measures
• monitor international and reliable local media and other sources for threats
• avoid possible targets
• have an exit plan if you need to visit an area that's a possible target
• stay in accommodation with appropriate security measures in place
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• take official warnings seriously

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

Kidnapping is a high risk across Niger, including in the capital Niamey. Various militant groups are active in Niger and neighbouring countries.  

Foreigners and foreign interests, including mining operations, will continue to be viewed as lucrative targets. Kidnappers often conduct extensive planning prior to the kidnapping and may leverage local networks. Several foreigners have been kidnapped in Niger. Kidnappers may execute hostages. 

Kidnappers may kidnap foreign workers, humanitarian aid workers, tourists and long-term residents from their: 

• homes
• vehicles
• workplaces 

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, you should be aware that our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited.  

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of being kidnapped:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

More information on how to reduce your risk of being kidnapped: Kidnapping.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Scams that affect travellers

Violent crime

Violent crime is common across Niger, including in Niamey. Crimes include:

• armed home invasions
• kidnapping
• carjackings
• muggings

The risk of violent crime increases at night, but it can happen at any time. We advise against walking alone, even in the vicinity of your hotel.

Criminals often work in groups to target foreigners and 4WD vehicles.

Outside central Niamey, the threat of violent crime is higher. 

Petty crime

Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are common in Niger, including Niamey.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Niger:

• pay close attention to your personal belongings
• avoid walking in isolated areas or along dark streets at night
• lock your accommodation, even when you're inside
• keep car windows and doors locked, even when moving
• limit any displays of personal wealth.

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Scams and fraud

Internet scams come in many forms, including romance, friendship, business and job offers.

Once the online friendship develops, your friend or prospective marriage partner might ask you to send money so they can travel to Australia.

Criminals might also:

• ask to transfer large amounts of money to an overseas bank account and offer you a percentage
• provide fake cashier cheques for urgent shipments of goods
• ask for large fees for fake government contracts
• lure you to Niger for a business opportunity

You could be lured to Africa to meet your friend. Once in Africa, you could become the victim of kidnapping, assault, robbery, or extortion. Some victims have been killed. Don't travel to Niger to get your money back or to get revenge. If you suspect a scam, get legal advice.

Some scams ask you to transfer money through the Australian High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria. Some scammers pretend to work there. Check with the High Commission if you're asked to send money or details to them (see 'Local contacts').

To protect yourself from scams:

• be wary of online contact from people you don't know
• don't send money to anyone until you've thoroughly checked them

If, despite our advice, you travel to Niger, warn your friends and family about scams relating to your welfare. They may get fake phone calls and emails claiming you're in legal, financial or medical trouble and asking for money to help.

While you're in Niger, be cautious about giving out personal information. Don't throw away personal documents.

Cyber security

The rainy season is from June to October. Flooding and landslides may occur, blocking roads.

The dry season is from November to May. 

During the dry season, Niger may be affected by the "Harmattan" seasonal wind. This seasonal wind blows a lot of sand and dust in the air. Visibility may be very limited. This wind can cause problems for people with respiratory or optical issues.

If a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:

• monitor reliable local media
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in touch with friends and family

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Carry copies of these documents translated into French while in Niger.

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Niger. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's preventable by vaccination. Get vaccinated for before you travel.

Insect-borne diseases, including Malaria and Dengue, are common.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS

The HIV/AIDS infection rate is high in Niger. Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• cholera
• rabies
• hepatitis
• polio (poliomyelitis)
• tuberculosis
• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)

Serious outbreaks can occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities in Niamey, including emergency help, are limited and of poor quality.

Outside the capital, facilities are inadequate, non-existent or under the control of armed militias.

You'll probably need to pay up-front for medical services. If you can't, this may delay your treatment.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. The Australian Government is unable to organise or pay for medical evacuation.

Some parts of Niger are not under the control of the government, meaning that militant groups in those areas may dictate what laws and standards apply.

Drugs

Penalties for possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs can include heavy fines and/or long jail sentences in Niger. 

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

The death penalty applies to serious crimes, such as murder.

Always carry your passport with a valid visa or residence permit.

NGOs must register with the Government of Niger before they start their mission. If you work without permission, you could be detained and deported.

It's illegal to take photos of:

• military personnel, zones and assets
• radio and television stations
• airports
• the Presidency Building
• diplomatic buildings
• the Kennedy Bridge in Niamey
• political demonstrations

LGBTQIA+ information

It's illegal to perform what the law calls an 'unnatural act' with a person of the same sex and who is under 21. This is punishable by a fine and up to three years in prison.

Same-sex relationships are otherwise legal in Niger. However, there is a strong stigma against them within the local community and no local recognition of same-sex couples.

More information: 

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Niger doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you enter Niger with a Nigerien passport, local authorities will treat you as a Nigerien citizen. This limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Respect religious and cultural customs and laws.

Ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

Dress standards

Standards of dress and behaviour are generally conservative. Take care not to offend.

If you're a woman, consider wearing a headscarf and loose clothes that cover your arms and legs, especially where locals are doing so.

If you're not sure, get local advice.

Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Niger. 

It's illegal to eat, drink and smoke in public during daylight hours in Ramadan. If you're not fasting, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in front of people who are.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas

If, despite our advice, you travel to Niger, you'll need a visa in advance of travel to enter the country.

Border measures

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Niger for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Authorities have been conducting increased security checks on foreigners arriving in Niger by air. This may result in your passport being held by authorities for several days when you arrive in Niger.

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Niger. Some airlines may ask to see it before boarding a flight to or from Niger.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

The local currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF).

Only change money at a reputable exchange bureau.

Australian dollars aren't accepted. You can convert US dollars and euros to XOF.

Cash traveller's cheques at commercial banks. You'll need to show the original receipt and your passport.

Be aware that:

• Niger is a cash-based society
• ATMs are not readily available
• credit cards are rarely accepted, even in major hotels and restaurants

Bring enough cash to cover your needs.

Restrictions on travel

Several roads in Niger are closed for travel, except with special authorisation.

Without these authorisations, you could be arrested and deported.

Landmines

Unexploded weapons, improvised explosive devices and landmines are a risk throughout the country. Armed groups are known to target convoys travelling on major routes using such weapons.

Driving permit

You can drive in Niger with a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted) and an International Driving Permit (IDP). You must get your IDP before you leave Australia. You must get a local licence if you're staying longer than 3 months.

Road travel

Other than a few main routes, most roads are in bad condition or unsealed, including within Niamey.

Dangers include:

• poor vehicle maintenance
• poor street lighting
• hazardous local driving habits

Roads can be dangerous, with traffic including

• bicycles
• pedestrians
• animals
• tractors

Checkpoints are common across Niger, including in Niamey. 

If you travel outside Niamey, you must be escorted by Nigerien security or military forces.

Carry your vehicle registration and ownership papers, as well as necessary permits. Authorities may ask for these at any time, especially outside main towns.

There's no roadside assistance.

Before you drive, check your insurance covers you and learn local traffic laws and practices.

If, despite our advice, you have to travel by road:

• carry sufficient fuel and drinking water for longer than your intended journey
• avoid driving at night
• carry photo ID, vehicle registration and ownership papers
• keep car windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• stay on marked roads
• have multiple forms of communication, mobile coverage can be patchy
• seek professional security advice and arrange appropriate security measures.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Niger:

• get local advice on road and security conditions before you travel
• leave your travel itinerary with a reliable person
• drive only in daylight hours
• drive in a convoy and with adequate security, including the use of armoured vehicles
• travel in well-maintained vehicles
• carry a satellite phone and first-aid kit

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Ensure your travel insurance covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Don't use local taxis. They are generally old and in poor condition. Ride-sharing services are unreliable. Both have poor safety standards and pose a risk of petty crime.

We recommend hiring a private car with a professional driver. Travelling in an armoured vehicle is the safest option.

Public transport

Don't use public transport. It is often unsafe due to unqualified and uninsured drivers, poor vehicle maintenance and overcrowding.

Roads are in poor condition, and there's a risk of violent crime or terrorism. Public transport has been targeted by criminal gangs and armed groups in the past.

Air travel

Check Niger's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Dust storms are common during the "Harmattan" season (December to February). Flights can be re-routed when visibility is poor.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, in the first instance, you should contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline
• hotel

Fire and rescue services

Call 18.

Medical emergencies

Call 15 or 20 72 31 41 and ask for an ambulance or go directly to a hospital. Ambulances may be slow to respond.

Police

Call 17 or 20 72 25 53 or go to the nearest police station.

These phone numbers often go unanswered, especially outside normal working hours. Sometimes, police may be slow to respond to reports of criminal activity or may not investigate them at all.

Always try to get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

There are limits to what consular assistance we can provide in high-risk locations. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Niger.

You can access limited consular services from the Australian High Commission in Nigeria. The Australian High Commission in Abuja has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in Niger.

Australian High Commission, Abuja

Phone: +234 (0) 9460 6960
Email: ahc.abuja@dfat.gov.au
Web: www.nigeria.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Nigeria
X: AusHCAbuja

Contact the High Commission to ask about available services and to make an appointment.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia