Aïr and Ténéré Natural Reserves

When to go

No tourist travel season can currently be recommended: the FCDO advises against all travel to Niger. Use UNESCO materials, conservation reports and online lectures. If official access becomes possible again in the future, the expedition window must be determined by the authorities, security conditions, temperature, water supplies and the state of desert routes.

Things to see and do

The area's contrast between the volcanic Aïr Mountains, the sand seas of the Ténéré, oases and protected desert wildlife habitats can be explored through information resources. In the future, only officially authorised conservation expeditions would be appropriate, with a planned route, satellite communications and a strict ban on off-road driving, disturbing animals, collecting stones or entering restricted zones.

Practical tips

This page is for information only. Niger faces risks from terrorist attacks, kidnapping and political instability; assistance for foreign nationals is extremely limited. Do not organise a private desert tour, trust an unofficial convoy or count on arranging your own evacuation. Security decisions must be based solely on current official warnings.

Getting there and getting around

There is currently no safe independent route to the reserves. The area is far from major cities and would normally require a multi-day expedition through Agadez with permits, experienced drivers, fuel, water and satellite communications. While advice against all travel remains in place, such routes should neither be booked nor promoted.

Where to stay

There are no conventional hotels inside the reserve; an overnight stay would only be conceivable in a self-sufficient expedition camp. At present, neither a stay nor travel is recommended. In the future, an official operator would need to provide water, food, communications, security, medical care, fuel, removal of waste and an evacuation plan independent of public networks.

What to try

A desert expedition would have to carry all its food and safe water. Millet, pulses, dates and meat are common in the region's cultural food traditions, but local supplies must not be relied upon. Well water should only be used after its quality has been confirmed; packaging and organic waste must not be left behind.