Niamey Things to Do

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Taking a ride on the Niger River in a pirogue was a highlight of my first trip to Niger. While there are numerous departure points, we had our driver take us northwest of Niamey a bit to the Rio Bravo golf course (yes, there's a golf course and yes, the "greens" are oiled patches in the sand!). Behind the golf course is a small lodge and restaurant with a boat launch. Prices for an hour on the river are reasonable, but you should negotiate for the best price. Our "pilot" poled us up the river for a bit, where we got to see some hippos and a variety of birds. We then turned around and followed the current to an island in the middle of the river. The island was home to a small village and we got to see village life up close. Our guides took us to the new school and also to see the (huge) fruit bats that rest in the trees on the island during the day. Once back at the lodge, there are alos options for camel rides or a cool drink under the trees along the river.