Bianou Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Diversity in Agadez, Niger.

1780 €, 9 Days

Located in northern Niger, between the Sahara and the Sahel, the Agadez region celebrates the Bianou festival yearly. It is one of the biggest festivals in the country.
Celebrated since the Middle Ages in the region, Bianou coincides with Achoura, a religious event in Islam to commemorate the first month of the year in the Muslim calendar. Bordering Algeria, Libya, Mali, and Chad, the Agadez region is characterized by a strong mix of different cultural groups, both from the different ethnicities that it comprises but also for its geographical position, which makes it a migration crossroads for many people from sub-Saharan Africa trying to reach or returning from North Africa. The festivities provide an opportunity for all communities to come together, bond, and celebrate local traditions and heritage.

During the celebrations, traditional warriors from the East and West of Agadez sporting spears and daggers cross the city under the beats of tambourines. People of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds participate by dressing up and escorting the traditional dancers.

Highlights:

♦ Bianou Festival: Celebrated annually since the Middle Ages and a unique opportunity to witness local traditions
♦ Cultural Diversity: The Agadez region is known for its strong mix in the diversity of cultures in West Africa
♦ Traditional Warriors: Witness the warrior culture in action during the Bianou festival

View Route Map

Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrival in Niamey.
Arrive Niamey, transfer to our hotel for overnight. -/-/-

Day 2. Niamey - Masallata - Konni - Maradi.
An early start of the day heading East to Niger's second largest city. En route we will stop for lunch in the historical town of Konni. Originally part of Katsina, a Hausa state, Maradi became independent in the 19th century. From the early 19th century, it was home to one of several Hausa traditional rump states, formed by rulers and nobility who fled the rise of the Sokoto Caliphate. Overnight guest house in Maradi. B/-/-

Day 3. Maradi - Zinder
Depart for Zinder after breakfast - the former capital of Niger. In the afternoon we visit the mosque and the ancient Sultan Palace of Zinder, which dates from the 15th century and offers a great example of traditional Hausa architecture. Tour the regional museum to learn about Hausa culture and spend time in the bustling cattle and artisan markets. Hotel overnight. B/-/-

Day 4. Zinder - Agadez
Our trip continues to the North to Agadez - the main city of the eastern part of the country located right on the edge of Tenere desert. We visit the the Great mosque and the old city. The Great mosque was built in Sudanese style, fully made of banko – a mixture of mud, dung and straw. B/-/D

Days 5-6. Bianou ceremonies. B/-/D

Day 7. Agadez - Zinder
Today we head back to Zinder. Free time in the afternoon. B/-/-

Day 8. Zinder - Niamey.
Transfer to the airport, flight back to Niamey. Hotel B/-/-

Day 9. Departure B/-/-

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Good to know: ► A visa is required to enter Niger – to be obtained from a Nigerien embassy/consulate in advance. ► Remember mosquito prevention to avoid mosquito –borne illnesses. ► As Niger is a Muslim country it is recommended to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Alcohol is prohibited in many areas. ► Public transport is limited and the road conditions are poor; a part of the experience.

Price Includes:
8 nights hotel and guest houses
meals acc. itinerary
transport in a 4x4 air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking guide
police registration and travel permit
entry fees
visa assistance tour leader from Penguin Travel (at min. 8 participants)

Not Included:
international flights
visa fees
photo permits
drinks and meals not mentioned
tips and personal expense
flight ticket Zinder-Niamey

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