Niger

Niger is a large, landlocked country in West Africa. Most of the country is covered by the Sahara Desert. Niger has a rich nomadic culture and ancient trade routes that once crossed the desert.

Land and People

About 26 million people live in Niger. The capital is Niamey. The Sahara covers most of the north. The Niger River runs through the southwest, bringing water to farms and cities. The Air Mountains rise from the desert.

Very old rock carving from the Sahara Desert.
Very old rock carving from the Sahara Desert. (Dan Lundberg / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

The Tuareg people of Niger are desert nomads famous for their blue robes and silver jewelry. The Cure Salee festival celebrates the end of the rainy season with camel races and dances. People eat rice, millet, and stews. Despite being mostly desert, Niger has beautiful desert landscapes.

Fun Facts

  • Niger is named after the Niger River, which means 'river among rivers.'
  • The Tuareg people of Niger are known as the Blue People because their indigo robes stain their skin blue.
  • Niger has one of the youngest populations in the world.

Did You Know?

The Tuareg people of Niger are called the Blue People of the Desert because they wear robes dyed with indigo that stains their skin blue. The Tuareg are nomads who travel the Sahara by camel. Men, not women, wear veils to protect from desert sand.