African Sky

Leave Niamey early in the morning. Enter the park through Tapoa gate and explore the lush environment around the Tapoa river on foot or in a well-equipped four wheel drive. Spend time at the viewpoint admiring antelopes, elephants, crocodiles and . lions quenching their thirst and resting from the midday sun. You can picnic in one of several appointed areas by the river or have a meal on the terrace of the Tapoa hotel followed by a refreshing swim in the pool. After an early dinner, you can embark on a night-safari with your guide, in a well -equipped open four-wheel drive. You might spot nocturnal animals such as hyenas, leopards, genets, and wildcats. You can spend the night in the hotel and head out in the early morning after a leisurely breakfast on the terrace. Head to the Mekrou River, scanning the surrounding for wildlife along the way. You can embark on a boat safari if you so wish - a boat and pilot will be waiting for you. Float down the river at your leisure, admiring wildlife congregating on the banks of the Mekrou River. (A treetop eco-lodge will be available from October 2007 for an overnight stay in exceptional surroundings.) You can picnic in the shade of giant ficus trees on the riverbank. During the afternoon, safari to Nigercar Camp. You'll reach Nigercar Camp in the afternoon. You'll also have time for an easy stroll up a neighbouring hill to admire a panorama that includes views of the Niger river and wildlife in the park. Enjoy a warm meal and a quiet evening under the African sky. In the early morning, start your day with a three hour walking safari through flat terrain bordering the river. You may be able to spot antelopes, buffaloes, various species of monkeys and, with a bit of luck, cheetahs and lions. For those who enjoy bird watching, this is prime viewing opportunity. Back at camp, enjoy breakfast. You'll be able to fish if you wish to do so, accompanied by a local villager. Nigercar will pack a picnic for you and you can enjoy it at the viewpoint in front of Nyafarou waterhole, waiting for topis and warthogs. You'll reach the main gate at Tapoa in the afternoon and head back into Niamey at your leisure.