West to the new city is Biri, the ancient city. Built of mud and straw, today still retains the life and customs of centuries ago. A pleasant experience is lost in its labyrinth of streets and observe the architecture, street life, the old adobe mosques and influence of Islam in the day to day, but especially the friendliness and great hospitality of its inhabitants. Smile, surely somebody will invitate you to visit a house or share a tee cup.
Things to do
Today, this palace with exquisite care architecture, is home to the 23rd sultan, his 3 wives and 23 children, and his entourage of 300 people. Theoretically stripped of its political power, yet retains his title and a high social respect. You can visit de Palace with a guide (you will find somebody on the main door). There isn´t official charge for the entry, but it is hoped the visitor a good tip, which theoretically contribute to the maintenance of the palace and the court of the sultan.
The best option for real budget pocket. The hotel's name means: "do not worry, take it easy". Rooms are very basic, the hotel is labyrinth with many terraces and
probably the shower is not working, but you can find rooms for 4 persons per 6.000 CFA. Just opposite to the Nuit Marche.
On the road, between the old city (Birni) and the new city , there is the Fort Tanimoune (entrance is not allowed, because it is a military base). Around the ancient fort, between the rocky boulders, you have a nice panoramics 360 degrees. The best views are close to the Arene de la lutte traditionelle stadium. Beware of the improvised air public toilet area!!!
Toubou, Tuareg, Peul and Kanouri people meet every thursday for sell or exchange livestock and beasts of burden. Located north of Birni, you have to walk at lest two kilometers from the restaurant Ali.
