niger

Niger Animals

Due to the unstable situation and very high level of general risk, traveling to Niger may be dangerous. Read more
Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in Niger

Niger, a land of vast deserts, rugged mountains, and lush oases, is home to a diverse range of wildlife that has adapted to its challenging environments. From the majestic Sahara desert to the lush banks of the Niger River, the country is teeming with fascinating creatures that capture the imagination of wildlife enthusiasts.

Embark on a journey through the animal kingdom of Niger, where you can encounter the graceful dama gazelle, the elusive cheetah, and the majestic addax, all of which have made their home in the arid landscapes of the country. Keep an eye out for the vibrant birdlife, including the colorful Abyssinian roller and the striking African silverbill, which add a splash of color to the desert skies. Join us as we explore the incredible wildlife that calls Niger home, and discover the unique adaptations that allow these animals to thrive in this captivating land.

Mammals of Niger

In the arid expanses of Niger, a country graced by the Sahara and Sahel, one can encounter a fascinating array of mammals that have adapted to its challenging environments. The majestic West African lion, a symbol of strength and courage, still roams the W National Park, albeit in worrying scarcity. The African elephant, the largest land mammal, can be seen in the "W" park as well, often near water sources. The dainty Dorcas gazelle, with its elegant horns and swift legs, thrives in the desert areas, while the stately giraffe, specifically the West African giraffe, gracefully browses the trees in the Kouré region. These mammals, among others, are a testament to the resilience and diversity of wildlife in Niger's vast landscapes.

Birds of Niger

In the diverse avian tapestry of Niger, one may marvel at the elegant African Collared Dove, the vibrant Abyssinian Roller, and the majestic African Fish Eagle, soaring above the rivers. The Sahelian Acacia savanna hosts the resilient African Silverbill and the strikingly patterned Black Crowned Crane. Near water bodies, the Pink-backed Pelican can be spotted, gracefully gliding over the surface. The air resonates with the calls of the Yellow-billed Stork, a common sight in the wetlands. In the arid regions, the Cream-colored Courser dashes across the sand, while the air is pierced by the sharp cry of the Brown-necked Raven. These birds, among others, form an integral part of Niger's rich natural heritage, enchanting birdwatchers and tourists alike.

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in Niger

  • W National Park, straddling the borders of Niger, Burkina Faso, and Benin, is a UNESCO World Heritage site named after the W-shaped meander of the Niger River. This park is a haven for a variety of wildlife, including African elephants, West African lions, leopards, cheetahs, and caracals. Visitors may also spot hippos lounging in the waterways and a diverse array of antelope species such as the Western hartebeest, roan antelope, and the rare West African giraffe.
  • Aïr and Ténéré Natural Reserves, which form one of the largest protected areas in Africa, are a sanctuary for several desert-adapted species. The addax, a critically endangered desert antelope, roams here, along with the dama gazelle and the Barbary sheep. The vast landscapes of the Sahara Desert and the Aïr Mountains also provide a backdrop for sightings of the fennec fox and the striped hyena.
  • Termit and Tin Toumma National Nature Reserve is another significant conservation area in Niger, known for its biodiversity in the Sahara-Sahel transition zone. The critically endangered addax and the dama gazelle find refuge within this reserve. The reserve is also home to the Saharan cheetah, a subspecies adapted to the arid environment, and the resilient Dorcas gazelle.
  • The Gadabedji Biosphere Reserve serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds and supports populations of resident wildlife. Here, one can observe the red-fronted gazelle and the lappet-faced vulture, which soars above the reserve's acacia savanna ecosystem.

Where to next? Discover country icon Mali, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder