Tree of Ténéré, Solitary acacia in Ténéré region, Niger

The Tree of Ténéré was an acacia that grew for centuries in the heart of the Sahara in Niger, serving as a landmark for caravans crossing the desert. Its roots extended more than 100 feet (30 meters) deep to reach underground water.

The acacia survived at least three centuries in the sand before it was struck down by a truck driver in 1973. Its trunk was then moved to the Niger National Museum in Niamey.

Local tribes maintained strict protection of the tree, establishing rules that prevented nomads and their camels from consuming its leaves or damaging it.

A metal sculpture now stands at the original site where the acacia once grew, marking the location. Travelers crossing the Ténéré Desert can visit this installation during their journey.

The Tree of Ténéré and the Arbre Perdu to the north were the only trees marked on maps at a scale of 1:4,000,000. A well dug beside it in the winter of 1938–1939 showed its roots reached the water table 33–36 metres down.