Five Things To Do In Niamey Niger

1.  Visit The National Museum

Niger’s National Museum is one of the few cultural places in the city. It is a good place to learn Niger’s history and hear about different ethnic groups. There is also a petting zoo and arts and crafts market on the grounds of the museum. Moreover, the colorful and well-designed facade and doors of most buildings are great for photos.

2. Tour The Grand Mosque And Watch People Play Soccer/ Football On Its Grounds

A gift from Libya that includes Moroccan designs, Niamey’s Grand Mosque is one of the few mosquesThe security guard gladly gave me a private tour in exchange for a couple of CFA Francs. Outside, I met and briefly spoke to a group of young bikers as we watched others – including a few highly skilled children – play soccer.

3. Watch The Sun Set At La Plage

Plage is the French word for “beach.” Since Niger is a landlocked country, there are no beaches in the country. But Nigeriens (not to confuse with Nigerians) make the most of their situation and call the banks of the Niger river a beach. In Niamey, La Plage is a popular hangout spot for Niamey’s youth that I would recommend checking out – with a Nigerien friend – to watch the sunset or meet other young people on weekends. 

4. Have Drinks And/Or Relax At The Bar Behind The Piscine Olympique

It is a lovely outdoor space with lots of trees, a nice view and a couple of spots to hide under Niamey’s scorching sun. There was loud music to entertain the many swimmers at the pool when we went there but I suspect it’s much quieter and less crowded during the work-week.

5. Eat At Amandine, La Cabane, Grand Hotel And/Or Le Pillier.

Amandine and La Cabane were my go-to places for shawarmas, pastries, burgers and fries to eat lunch or dinner during the week. I also went to the Italian restaurant Le Pillier with my boss. The food was pretty good and, considering other options, the setting is suitable for a business meeting as well as a date. Sadly, although I briefly stopped by the Grand Hotel on my second to last day in town, I did not have its famous brochettes de viande (meat skewers). Should I return to Niamey at some point, it will be a priority to