Getting around Niger takes patience and flexibility. Roads are limited, distances are enormous, and public transport is thin outside of the main corridor.
By Road
The main paved road runs east-west from Niamey through Dosso, Maradi, and Zinder to the Nigerian border. This is the backbone of Niger's transport network. The road north from Agadez toward Arlit is mostly paved, but conditions deteriorate the further you go. Many roads in the north and east are unpaved and become impassable during the July-to-September rainy season.
Buses and Bush Taxis
SNTV (formerly SNTN) operates long-distance coaches between major cities. Niamey to Zinder takes around 12-14 hours and costs roughly 14,000 CFA. Buses to Agadez from Niamey or Zinder are less regular and can take 8 hours or more.
Bush taxis (taxi brousse) — shared minibuses and 4WD vehicles — fill the gaps. They're faster than buses but leave when full, not on schedule. For anything off the main routes, bush taxis or hired 4WDs are your only realistic options.
In the North
The desert regions around Agadez, the Air Mountains, and the Tenere Desert require a 4WD, a guide, and proper permits from the authorities. Do not attempt these areas without local expertise. Tour operators in Agadez can arrange everything.
In Niamey
In the capital, shared taxis (yellow) circulate on fixed routes for around 150-250 CFA per ride. Motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis) are faster and cover more ground. Negotiate the fare before you get on.