The Simple Beauty of Niger

06 Feast Your Eyes on Ancient Rock Art

Over 10,000 years ago, the Sahara desert was much greener and full of life than it is today. One way scientists have verified this fact is by studying ancient rock art located throughout the deserts in the North. The Dabous region in the Ténéré desert is home to more than 800 rock carvings of various animals that haven't seen this part of the arid wilderness for centuries. Of particular importance are the Dabous Giraffes, two life-sized giraffes meticulously carved in stone. Their size, realism, and technique make these artworks invaluable to the study of humankind. A group of Tuareg people has settled in the area to act as permanent guides and to ensure the preservation of this precious site.