Things To Do
in Chad
Chad is a landlocked nation in north-central Africa that spans arid deserts, the Sahel, and the edge of Lake Chad. Its landscapes range from the Sahara in the north to the southern savannas, with vibrant markets and caravan routes shaping everyday life. N'Djamena, the capital, sits along the Chari River and serves as the cultural and economic hub of the country.
From Zakouma National Park to sweeping desert panoramas in the north, Chad offers wildlife, culture, and vast open spaces for curious travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in N'Djamena, the capital of Chad, and get settled in your accommodation. Take a comfortable stroll around the city to acclimatize and absorb the local atmosphere. Sample some traditional Chadian dishes for lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Visit the Chad National Museum to learn about the rich history and diverse cultures of the country. Explore the local markets filled with vibrant textiles, crafts, and fresh produce, interacting with the friendly vendors. Capture the vivid scenes and unique products along the bustling streets.
Enjoy dinner at a popular local eatery where you can savor a mix of Chadian and West African cuisines. Take an evening walk along the Chari River, enjoying the sunset and the vibrant local life. Wind down with a drink at a rooftop café, soaking in views of the city.
Early morning, embark on a journey to Zakouma National Park, a haven for diverse wildlife. Catch glimpses of majestic elephants and various antelope species as the sun rises over the savannah. Your guide will share insights into the ecology and history of the park.
After a thrilling morning safari, enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by the park's natural beauty. Continue your exploration with a guided game drive to spot lions, birds, and more unique wildlife. Each moment in Zakouma is filled with the sounds of nature and excitement.
Return to your lodge within the park and unwind after a day full of adventure. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local ingredients and flavors while sharing stories with fellow travelers. As night falls, listen to the sounds of the African night echoing around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $20-40 |
| 🍺Local beer or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🛏️One night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local transportation (taxi/bus) per day | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Sahara-to-Sahel landscapes and expansive skies
- Warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions
- Wildlife-rich reserves like Zakouma for memorable safaris
- Relatively low visitor crowds compared to other African destinations
- Limited infrastructure outside major towns; some routes can be rough
- Safety considerations in border areas and travel during security alerts
- Limited health services outside major cities; ensure travel insurance
- "Bonjour" - Hello (French)
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Salam" - Hello/Peace (Arabic greeting)
- "Min fadlik" - Please (Arabic)
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom? (Arabic)
Places to Visit in Chad
Visit one of these nice places.
A premier wildlife reserve offering sweeping savanna landscapes and abundant elephants and antelope—great for early-morning and late-afternoon safaris.
Sunset over the riverbanks provides warm golden light, with local boats and markets adding human interest to your shots.
Vast, open horizons with reed beds and fishermen; dramatic skies especially during sunrise and at dusk.
Rugged mountains and stark desert scenery ideal for dramatic panoramic shots and star photography on clear nights.
Food in Chad
Chad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty staple where millet or sorghum is simmered with goat meat, onions, and traditional spices.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish cooked in a tomato-onion sauce with peppers and herbs, a common meal near the lake regions.
A warm, comforting dish made from millet or sorghum, often eaten for breakfast or a hearty snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, grains, meat, and prepared street foods; great for tasting local flavors and observing daily life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm 'Bonjour' (French) or 'Salam' (Arabic) and a handshake or polite nod. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Show deference to elders and avoid interrupting conversations in public. When invited into homes, remove shoes if asked and share a small offering or hospitality if offered.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or religious sites. Some places may restrict photography or require consent.
During Ramadan, be respectful of fasting hours; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Chad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service but not always expected; small tips ($1–$5) for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are common in tourist contexts. Consider a slightly larger tip for full-day safaris or exceptional service.
Cash is the most reliable method, with the CFA franc (XAF) used locally. US dollars are widely accepted in major towns for larger transactions. Credit cards are accepted mainly in hotels and some upscale restaurants; ATMs are limited and concentrated in N'Djamena and larger towns. Carry secure cash and small denomination notes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler evenings and generally clear days; excellent for safaris and city sightseeing, though evenings can be chilly in desert regions. Travel is often more comfortable, but some rural roads can be rough after rains.
Heavy rains in the south can affect road conditions and travel times; expect higher humidity and lush landscapes. Mosquito protection is important, and some areas may be less accessible during peak rains.
Very high daytime temperatures in desert regions; plan early-morning activities and have ample water. Interior travel may be slower due to heat; always have sun protection and a plan for shade.
Chad at Night
Hiking in Chad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged volcanic peaks and expansive desert scenery offering challenging hikes and dramatic vistas, best with a local guide due to remote terrain.
Arid canyons and rock formations ideal for day treks and dramatic photography in the Saharan fringe.
Airports
How to reach Chad by plane.
Main international gateway to Chad; serves regional flights and some long-haul connections. Access to city via taxi or pre-arranged transfer; plan for visa and customs processing in advance.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse ethnic groups in the southern Sahelian belt with distinct languages and traditions.
Concentrated in northern and central regions; Arabic and local languages are common in daily life.
Caravan and desert-dwelling groups that contribute to Chad's cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Chad, played in towns and informal pitches; local leagues and street games are common.
Desert and Sahelian communities have long-standing horse traditions; opportunities for riding and demonstrations exist in some regions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many places, such as millet or sorghum porridges, lentil-based dishes, and vegetable stews. When ordering, request no meat stock and ask for vegetable-forward preparations.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chad.