tour to Niger Expedition to Wodaabe touareg festival Guerewol Air fulani journey to Sahara Sahel tour to Cure Salee

tour to Cure Salee
Experience one of Africa’s most authentic and least-visited nations on an expedition through Niger — a land where ancient deserts, nomadic traditions, and UNESCO-recognized heritage converge.

From the vibrant markets of Tahoua and the award-winning Sudanese-style mosques of Yaama to the remote Tuareg camps surrounding Lake Tablak, you’ll delve deep into cultures unchanged by time. The climax of our journey will be the legendary Festival de l’Aïr in the oasis of Iferouane — the largest gathering of Tuareg nomads from across the Sahara. We immerse ourself in camel fantasia races, tender rhythms of the tendé, dazzling traditional costume contests, and dances under the vast desert sky.

Sleep beneath endless stars in the Ténéré Desert, encounter 5,000-year-old rock art at Dabous, and unwind in the lush gardens of the Timia oasis. Traverse the biodiverse heights of the Aïr Mountains, a sanctuary of wildlife and ancient art.
This is more than a trip — it’s a passage into the heart of Tuareg culture. Join us for an unparalleled adventure into the soul of the Sahara!

Tour to Niger. Have you ever seen the biggest theater scene in the world? Do real men compete in beauty or it is only for women?
You will find the answers only having visited Niger.
Buy the ticket to «Niger's Bolshoy Theater» and watch the incredible performance at the edge of Sahara!

SСHEDULE & COST:
Dates: November 24 – December 6, 2025

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Number of participants: 8 – 12

Cost per person:
- 4 450 EUR subject to 12 participants, or
- 4 550 EUR subject to 10 — 11 participants or
- 4 650 EUR subject to 8 – 9 participants, based on double accommodation.

10% early booking discount (in case you book before September 24, 2025)

Everything is included (also, domestic flight and armed security escort), except for:
- international flight to Niamey roundtrip
- Niger visa (in Niger embassy in Moscow at 100 – 150 EUR or, for citizens who do not have Niger embassies in their countries we assist to arrange "visa on arrival" at 130 EUR incl. visa fee and pre-visa)
- international medical insurance
- lunches and dinners in Niamey and dinners in Agadez.

Estimated cost of international flight Moscow – Niamey – Moscow: 800 – 1300 EUR (to be bought on your own. We consult you).
Estimated cost of international flight Istanbul – Niamey – Istanbul: 850 – 1000 EUR (to be bought on your own. We consult you).

Single supplement: 400 EUR (provided in hotels and tents throughout the entire itinerary).


TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to Niger

Day 1. November 24, 2025 (Monday). ARRIVAL IN NIAMEY

Arrival by air in Niamey late in the evening. Transfer to the Grand Hotel 4*. Overnight at the hotel.

Meals included: no
Accommodation included: Grand hotel or similar hotel 4*, shower


Day 2. November 25, 2025 (Tuesday). NIAMEY – TAHOUA

After a very early breakfast, we begin our transfer by road to Tahoua. The journey takes us via the Dogon Doutchi massif, where we will make stops in traditional Haoussa villages to see their distinctive earthen houses and large, pot-shaped millet granaries. We then cross the Ader region, an area known for its vibrant commercial practices and economic ties to neighboring Nigeria. A picnic lunch will be provided along the route. We will arrive in Tahoua in the afternoon for accommodation at a local hotel.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: hotel in Tahoua, shower


Day 3. November 26, 2025 (Wednesday). TAHOUA – AGADEZ

Following an early departure, our journey continues with a transfer to Agadez. The route takes us past the picturesque pond of Tablak, a vital watering hole in the arid landscape, and near the camps of nomadic Tuareg. We will make stops along the way for visits, as this region is a major passageway for both Tuareg and Fulani nomads. These groups are known for practicing the captivating Guerewol ceremony, a traditional courtship ritual. Depending on the season, there is a strong possibility of encountering these deeply tradition-centered peoples. The day concludes with an overnight stay at the Ténéré hotel in Agadez.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation included: Hotel Ténéré or similar, shower


Day 4. November 27, 2025 (Thursday). AGADEZ - GOUGARAM (TENT CAMP)

We depart from Agadez via the road to Arlit, embarking on a journey that is as challenging as it is rewarding due to the very poor condition of the road. Our destination is Dabous, where we make a 6 km detour eastward to witness one of the Sahara's most magnificent ancient art sites: the renowned rock carvings of Dabous.
These are masterful, life-sized representations of giraffes, with the largest figure, depicting a giraffe and its calf, measuring an impressive 5 meters in height. After experiencing this awe-inspiring historical site, we continue our journey to Gouga Ram, where we will spend our first night under the vast desert sky in a traditional bivouac camp.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: tents, local shower with the bucket


Day 5 - 8. November 28 - December 1, 2025 (Friday - Monday). IFEROUANE FESTIVAL OF THE AÏR AND NIGHTS ON THE DUNES OF THE TÉNÉRÉ DESERT

Our journey now immerses us in the vibrant heart of Tuareg culture at the Iferouane Festival in the Aïr mountains. The program is a dazzling showcase of tradition, featuring numerous competitions that celebrate artistic skill and beauty, including the contest for the best female *tendé* player—a traditional Tuareg percussion instrument whose rhythms are the soul of the celebration—as well as contests for the best dancer, and the most elegant traditional costume. The entire spectrum of Tuareg culture is on magnificent display, from the thrilling camel fantasia races to the haunting melodies of Tuareg music and a continuous program of entertainment.
We will then weave this cultural immersion with profound exploration, embarking on the great crossing through the rugged mountain gorges of the Aïr. This dramatic traverse leads us to the first majestic dunes of Tezirzet and the fantastic cirque of Adrar Chiriet, a breathtaking amphitheater of rock that welcomes us with endless, golden dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. Here, on the very edge of the Ténéré, the legendary 'desert within a desert,' we will make our camp, pitching our tents directly in the soft, silent expanse of sand.
Our expedition then pushes further into this sea of solitude, continuing to the Tchinwa Degdeg well—a vital oasis in the vastness—before challenging the immense dune chains of Izane-Issaouane. Navigating this veritable ocean of sand, we are treated to spectacular, dreamlike landscapes that are truly breathtaking in their scale and beauty. Each day concludes with a night spent in our secluded tents, enjoying meals expertly prepared by our dedicated chef under a canopy of endless stars.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: tents, local shower with the bucket


Day 9. December 2, 2025 (Tuesday). AÏR MOUNTAINS - TIMIA

Leaving the vast, open sands behind, our journey now leads us through a magical and dramatically shifting landscape of rugged mountainous terrain, guiding us toward the village of Timia. Nestled in the heart of the Aïr Mountains approximately 200 km from Agadez, Timia is a stunning oasis, a verdant jewel that emerges unexpectedly from the surrounding aridity. Here, the local Tuareg population has skillfully cultivated lush gardens, producing a bounty of vegetables like onions and tomatoes, cereals, and an abundance of citrus fruits—oranges and grapefruit—as well as sweet, succulent dates. This fertile haven offers a profound and refreshing contrast to the desert we have traversed.
For our night in Timia, accommodation will be provided at a simple local guesthouse or campsite, featuring a single room with a bed. Water for showering will be provided, offering a welcome opportunity to refresh.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: guesthouse or campsite


Day 10 - 11. December 3 - 4, 2025 (Wednesday - Thuesday). TRANSFER TO AGADEZ UNESCO SITE

Our journey continues as we travel to Agadez via the village of Aouderas, with an anticipated arrival in the early afternoon. This marks the beginning of our exploration of this historic city. Founded in the 15th century as a crucial trading post by Tuareg and Hausa communities, Agadez flourished into one of the Sahara's most important centers, its fortunes built on the trans-Saharan trade routes. This rich history is recognized by its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, evident in its captivating mud-brick architecture.
Our tour will immerse us in the historic center, where we will visit the iconic Grand Mosque with its imposing, pyramid-shaped minaret—the tallest adobe structure of its kind. We will lose ourselves in the original labyrinthine streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere. As a major market town and the renowned "city of crafts," Agadez offers a unique cultural experience. We will have the opportunity to bargain for exquisite local crafts at the bustling market, where the Tuareg are celebrated for their intricate silver jewelry and beautiful indigo-dyed clothing, and we may also witness the dynamic camel market.
Following our city tour, we will transfer to our hotel to settle in for the night.

Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel


Day 12. December 5, 2025 (Friday). AGADEZ - TAHOUA

Our journey continues with a transfer to Tahoua, a route that offers a glimpse into the nomadic heart of Niger. We will travel via the pond of Tablak, a vital watering hole in the arid landscape, which attracts both wildlife and pastoral communities. Along the way, we will pass by some nomadic Tuareg camps, and we will make stops for visits whenever possible.
This region serves as a key passageway for Tuareg and Fulani nomads, who are known for practicing the Guérewol—a vibrant traditional courtship ceremony characterized by elaborate adornment, dancing, and singing. Depending on the season, there is a strong possibility of encountering these deeply tradition-centered peoples, offering a rare insight into their enduring customs and way of life.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tarka hotel or similar, shower


Day 13. December 6, 2025 (Saturday). TAHOUA - THE MOSQUES OF YAAMA - NIAMEY

We depart from Tahoua to continue our expedition south, making several scenic stops en route. A highlight is our visit to Yamaa, a distinguished Hausa village renowned for its striking Sudanese-style architecture. The village is celebrated for its collection of small yet imposing mud-brick mosques, whose exceptional design and cultural significance have been honored with the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
Our route then continues via Dosso, where we will stop to visit the Djermakoye Palace, the official residence of the Honorable Sultan of the Djerma people. This visit offers a unique glimpse into the traditional hierarchical structure and royal heritage of one of Niger's most influential ethnic groups.
We anticipate our arrival in Niamey around 5pm, where you will be transferred to a hotel. A day-use room will be provided exclusively for a refreshing shower and a chance to relax before your evening departure. Please note that the evening meal in Niamey is not included, allowing you the freedom to choose your final dinner. Afterwards, at the designated time, you will be transferred to the Diori Hamani International Airport (NIM) for your onward flight, marking the end of your journey through the captivating landscapes and cultures of Niger.

Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel - day use

* The order of visits and excursions, as well as logistics of the expedition, can be modified according to local conditions (i.e. flight schedule, state of roads, state of security, schedule of festivals or ceremonies etc.). In the event of cancellation of domestic flight, the program can be respectively changed. If some visits and/or tours could not be done due to external conditions, they will be replaced when possible.

** The participant of expedition to Niger must be motivated to be respectful to the culture of local tribes, be aware of the objectives of the trip and possible program changes depending on external conditions, security conditions and any other reasons, be able to adapt to the new environment and culture.

TESTIMONIALS OF OUR CLIENTS
FROM PREVIOUS EXPEDITIONS TO NIGER:

  • HIPPOtv GmbH hippotv.de
    отзыв опубликован на сайте
    We had already two successful film tours with Alex and must say: Alex is THE guy!
    Excellent planning and even better people we met along the tours to Niger and Amazonia. Pretty sure it won´t be our last expedition with Mzungu.
    Keep up with your good work & all the best!
  • Главное в поездках с Алексеем - не только возможность увидеть далекие места и экзотические ландшафты - но и уникальная возможность пообщаться с людьми у которых в голове зашиты программы очень сильно отличающиеся от наших, собираюсь уже в третий раз в этом году с ним поехать - был в Нигере и на Ямале теперь мечтаю об Амазонии
    Дима Пупин
    отзыв опубликован на Facebook
Cost includes:
  • accommodation in hotels according to the program on TWIN/DBL basis,
  • single accommodation in tents,
  • all transportations according to the program with A/C, fuel, experienced drivers: Toyota Land Cruisers 4WD or similar for Agadez – Air Festival – Agadez leg (3 passengers in 1 car), and Toyota Coaster or Toyota Hiace minibuses for the rest of the itinerary (with the comfortable accommodation),
  • full board meals (3 times a day), except for lunches and dinners in Niamey and dinners in Agadez,
  • unlimited bottled drinking water along the whole route,
  • security military escort on all parts of itinerary where it is needed,
  • all entry fees and site visits, photography fees, contribution to local communities,
  • participation in festivals and ceremonies,
  • camping gear: tents, mattresses, furniture, toilet cabin, shower cabin
  • all formalities and permits,
  • visa support
  • accompaniment of experienced English speaking guide
  • Russian and English speaking team leader throughout the trip

Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):

  • international flight to Niamey roundtrip
  • medical insurance
  • Niger visa
  • lunches and dinners in Niamey and dinners in Agadez in restaurants
  • alcohol, souvenirs
  • tips
  • single accomodation

To take with:

  • wear sets fitting weather conditions, one warm set
  • long sleeve wear set,
  • repellents (is a must!),
  • mosquito net for sleeping place (is a must!),
  • comfortable closed shoes and opes shoes,
  • forehead torch,
  • big backpack for luggage (or bag, or small suitcase),
  • small backpack for personal items and camera,
  • sleeping bag for warm weather,
  • sunblock set (cream, sunglasses, cap),
  • sandblock set: desert glasses, buff/mask (up to you)
  • personal hygiene items (toilet paper, towel, wet tissues, hygiene lipstick etc.),
  • personal medical kit (analgesics, sanitizers, antibiotics, your personal medicine),
  • yellow fever certificate,
  • Anti malaria preventive pills (up to you to decide)
  • photo and video camera
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
  • UNIQUENESS
    We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears.
  • ADVENTURISM
    Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
  • SAFETY
    In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
  • EXPERIENCE
    We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you.
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