Niger

To sleep under the stars in the middle of Sahara, is as exotic as it gets. It is of course tempting to fall asleep, but it is actually more rewarding to walk around on the star lit desert floor. There are so much to see; scorpions, mice, snakes and small bugs were all busy getting their dinner. This photo was taken during a trip through Niger, where most nights was spent among sand dunes and under the vast sky. Around midnight the camera got mounted on a tripod for a couple of hours to capture the stars. It is taken at a place about 100 km from the desert city of Bilma, and possible to reach by 4x4, camel, or even walking - the first option being the most comfortable way.

The old Grande Mosquee in Agadez dates back to 1515, but was totally rebuilt in 1844. In the early morning light, the minaret of clay and wood shines with warm colors, while people dressed in colorful clothes, moves around. It's a magical place, with all the sounds and sights, and the smell of the desert.
Agadez lies in the Sahara Desert, and the sandy streets, the mud brick buildings and dry heat of the desert, creates a wonderful atmosphere. For a small fee you can climb the minaret, which will give you good views of the city.
Agadez is a about 13 hours by bus from the capital Niamey, but you can also fly here - even from France.