Adventurous travellers to Niger might encounter nomadic tribes, spot baboons or elephants in ’W’ National Park, take a canoe down the River Niger or tour the fabulous old Tuareg capital, Agadez.

This former French colony is West Africa’s largest state, bordering Libya, Algeria, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Mali and Burkina Faso. Niger gained independence in 1960 and has since maintained close links with France.

Niger remains one of the world’s least-developed countries. A largely desert landscape, shortage of arable land and recurring drought mean alleviating poverty will prove difficult. In 2005, a serious food crisis affected up to 2.5 million people, requiring a major international relief operation.

1,267,000 sq km (489,191 sq miles).

12.9 million (UN estimate 2005).

10.2 per sq km.

Niamey. Population: 890,000 (UN estimate 2003).

Republic since 1960.

The official language is French. Also spoken are Hausa (by half of the population), Djerma, Fulani, Manga, Zarma and Tuareg dialects.

Approximately 95% Muslim, with Christian and animist minorities.

GMT + 1.

Handshaking is customary. Casual wear is widely suitable. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothes. Traditional beliefs and Muslim customs should be respected.

Photography: Permits are required for photography and filming, and can be obtained from police stations. Tour operators and tourist bureaux are often able to make arrangements. Film is expensive and local facilities for processing film are not always good. Ask local people for permission before taking their photographs. Military installations, airports and administrative buildings (including the Presidential Palace) should not be photographed.

220 volts AC, 50Hz.

Prime Minister Hama Amadou since 2000.

President Mamadou Tandja since 1999.