Niger in April

November through March offers the only bearable weather, with daytime temperatures around 25-30°C instead of the brutal 45°C+ of summer months. December and January are peak season when the harmattan winds bring cool, dry air from the Sahara. This is also when the annual Cure Salée festival happens near In-Gall, where Tuareg and Fulani herders gather with their cattle. Avoid April through October — the heat is punishing and the brief rainy season from June to September makes desert travel impossible. Even in the 'cool' season, desert nights can drop below 10°C, so pack layers.