Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Niger or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
I was traveling on a tight schedule and needed cash at night. The ATM I used in Niamey functioned fine, but people warned me later about occasional robberies near ATMs after dark. If you’re wondering whether it’s safe to use an ATM at night in Niger - short answer: not really. Do it early, and only at guarded branches.
Tried to use a Bank of Africa ATM in Niamey at 8:30 PM. Machine was operational but the area was deserted. I didn’t feel directly threatened, but it wasn’t comfortable either. Nighttime cash withdrawal in Niger should be avoided if possible - choose ATMs attached to banks during the day with security nearby.
As a long-haul traveler passing through West Africa, I learned to withdraw cash during banking hours only in Niger. ATMs often have long queues or no cash in the evening. Using foreign cards after dark in Niger is hit-or-miss, and even in Niamey, electricity can be unstable. Best to plan cash runs before sunset.
I stayed in Niamey for a few weeks and once needed cash after hours. Used an Ecobank ATM near Kennedy Bridge at around 9 PM. It worked, but the street was dark and empty. Locals later said it’s not advised to use ATMs at night in Niger. Even if you're in the city, stick to daytime withdrawals - safety and machine uptime both improve during daylight.