Zinder, city in Niger
Zinder is a major city in southeastern Niger and sits on a plateau within the Sahel zone. It spreads across several neighborhoods with an active center where traditional mud-brick buildings stand alongside modern structures.
The city emerged as a key trading post in the caravan trade and served as the economic center of the region for centuries. It played a major role in Niger's development and remains one of the country's largest urban centers.
The city has been a major trading hub in the Sahel region for centuries and continues to shape how residents live today. This heritage is visible in the traditional markets and in how various craft traditions are carried on throughout different neighborhoods.
The center is walkable, with market areas being most active and early morning offering the best time to explore. The city gets very hot and dry, especially from March to May, so light clothing and plenty of water are essential.
The old medina with its narrow streets and traditional houses retains an atmosphere that many other cities in the region have lost. Exploring this area reveals craft workshops and local techniques that have remained largely unchanged.
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