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25 Unmissable Things To Do in Chad in 2025: A Local’s Ultimate Guide

Discover the best things to do in Chad for your 2025 trip with our local insider guide. Explore Zakouma National Park, Lake Chad, Ennedi Plateau, and authentic cultural experiences with practical tips from a seasoned traveler.

Introduction: Why Chad Should Be Your Next Adventure

Chad remains one of Africa’s most underrated destinations, a diamond in the rough that few travelers have discovered. After my first visit in 2018, I’ve returned yearly—including twice in 2024—discovering new wonders each time. I still remember my first morning in N’Djamena, when the muezzin’s call to prayer blended with market sounds and the smell of fresh bread and spices. I stood on my hotel balcony, a bit overwhelmed but incredibly excited about the adventure ahead. That feeling has never faded.

This vast, landlocked nation offers experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else: prehistoric rock art in landscapes that resemble another planet, thriving wildlife populations without the crowds of East Africa, and cultural traditions that have remained intact for centuries. In 2025, with improved infrastructure and security in key regions, there’s never been a better time to visit.

This guide brings together everything I’ve learned through my journeys—including mistakes that cost me time and money—to help you create an unforgettable Chad adventure. From budget-saving strategies to cultural insights you won’t find in guidebooks, consider this your companion for exploring one of Africa’s most extraordinary countries.

Understanding Chad: Essential Context for Travelers

Before diving into specific destinations, let’s cover some groundwork. Chad is Africa’s fifth-largest country, spanning three distinct ecological zones: the Sahara Desert in the north, the semi-arid Sahel in the center, and the savanna in the south. This diversity creates dramatically different experiences depending on where you travel.

Best Time to Visit Chad

Timing is everything when planning a Chad trip. The climate varies significantly by region:

  • October to April: The dry season and generally the best time to visit. November to February offers pleasant temperatures (25-30°C/77-86°F) in most regions.
  • May to September: The rainy season. Southern roads become impassable, but this is when Zakouma National Park reaches peak greenery.
  • December to February: Ideal for exploring the Ennedi Plateau and northern regions, though nights can be cold (around 10°C/50°F).

Insider Tip: For photographers, February and March offer the clearest skies in the Ennedi region, perfect for night photography of the incredible rock formations against the Milky Way.

Current Travel Requirements (Updated for 2025)

As of early 2025, you’ll need:

  • A valid passport with at least six months validity
  • Tourist visa (obtainable from Chadian embassies or through the new e-visa system launched in late 2024)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate
  • Return/onward ticket
  • Travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage

The visa process has improved significantly since 2023, with the new e-visa system reducing processing time to 3-5 business days. Budget about 100 USD for a single-entry 30-day tourist visa.

Understanding Safety in Chad

Safety concerns often deter travelers from considering Chad, but the reality is more nuanced than headlines suggest. The security situation has steadily improved since 2021, particularly in tourist areas. The northern and eastern regions require permits and sometimes military escorts, but the main tourist circuits are generally secure.

My approach has always been to travel with reputable local operators who understand current conditions and maintain connections with communities along the route. During five trips across Chad, I’ve never encountered serious safety issues, though I’ve always followed local advice about areas to avoid.

Areas that are generally safe for tourists in 2025 include:

  • N’Djamena (the capital)
  • Zakouma National Park
  • Ennedi Plateau
  • Lake Chad (select areas with proper guides)
  • Southern towns like Moundou and Sarh

Personal Safety Mistake: On my second trip, I tried to save money by using a cheaper, less-established tour operator. We ended up stranded with vehicle problems for two days in a remote area because they didn’t have proper backup systems or communication equipment. The premium I’ve paid for respected operators since then has been worth every franc.

Top Natural Wonders to Explore in Chad

Ennedi Plateau: Chad’s Stone Masterpiece

The Ennedi Plateau might be the most spectacular landscape I’ve ever encountered, yet remarkably few travelers have heard of it. This UNESCO World Heritage site features otherworldly sandstone formations carved by wind and ancient waters into arches, towers, and labyrinths that defy belief.

The most famous formation is the Aloba Arch, standing over 120 meters high—one of the largest natural arches on Earth. But beyond the headline attractions, it’s the immersive experience of camping among these formations that creates lasting memories.

Don’t miss:

  • Guelta d’Archei: A hidden canyon oasis where Saharan camel herders water their animals, creating scenes unchanged for centuries.
  • Ancient rock art: Thousands of paintings and engravings dating back up to 7,000 years, showing a time when the Sahara was green and populated with elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles.
  • The “Elephant” and “Camel” rocks: Natural formations that uncannily resemble these animals.

A typical Ennedi expedition requires 7-10 days from N’Djamena and costs 1,800-2,500 USD per person with a reputable operator like Tchad Aventure or Chad Expeditions. The journey involves long driving days on rough tracks, but the reward is having these magnificent landscapes almost entirely to yourself.

Money-saving tip: Visit during the shoulder season (April or October) when operators often offer 15-20% discounts to fill expedition vehicles. I saved nearly 400 USD on my last trip this way. Just be prepared for more extreme temperatures.

Zakouma National Park: Africa’s Best-Kept Wildlife Secret

If you’ve grown tired of safari traffic jams in East Africa, Zakouma will restore your faith in authentic wildlife experiences. This 3,000 square kilometer park in southeastern Chad represents one of Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories.

After nearly losing its elephant population to poaching in the early 2000s, African Parks took over management in 2010. Today, elephant numbers have rebounded from fewer than 500 to over 600 and continuing to grow. The park also hosts large buffalo herds, lions, leopards, and over 50% of Africa’s remaining Kordofan giraffes.

What makes Zakouma special isn’t just the wildlife but the exclusivity. With only two accommodation options and strict visitor limits, you’ll often have sightings entirely to yourself. I’ve watched a pride of lions feasting on a buffalo for three hours without seeing another vehicle—an experience unimaginable in more popular safari destinations.

Accommodation Options:

  • Camp Nomade: A luxury tented camp operating from December to April. All-inclusive rates (approximately 750 USD per person per night) may seem steep, but the experience is unparalleled.
  • Tinga Camp: More affordable self-catering accommodations with basic amenities. Costs around 100-150 USD per day for a bungalow.

Insider saving tip: If your budget is tight, contact Zakouma management about camping options. For about 30 USD per day plus park fees, you can camp at designated sites. You’ll need your own equipment and a 4×4 vehicle, but this makes Zakouma accessible even to budget travelers.

The best time to visit is late February through early April when animals concentrate around remaining water sources. Book accommodations at least 6-8 months in advance as spaces fill quickly.

Lake Chad: The Shrinking Giant

Once one of Africa’s largest lakes, Lake Chad has shrunk dramatically over the past 50 years. Despite this ecological challenge, visiting the lake offers a fascinating glimpse into resilient communities adapting to environmental change.

From N’Djamena, Bol is the main access point to the lake, about a 6-7 hour drive on increasingly improved roads. Here, you can take boat trips to floating islands where the Buduma people maintain traditional fishing practices dating back centuries.

While parts of the Lake Chad basin have security concerns, tourist visits to Bol and designated areas have been possible since 2022. Always arrange your visit through established operators who can handle permits and know which areas are currently accessible.

A 3-day Lake Chad experience costs approximately 500-700 USD including transport from N’Djamena, boat excursions, accommodation, and meals. Basic guesthouses in Bol cost around 30-50 USD per night.

Lake Chad is best visited during the dry season (November-March) when roads are most reliable.

Tibesti Mountains: For the True Adventurer

The Tibesti range in Chad’s far north represents the ultimate adventure destination. With volcanic peaks rising above 3,000 meters from the Sahara floor, including Emi Koussi (Chad’s highest point at 3,445m), the landscapes are among the most dramatic and least-visited on Earth.

I’ve only made it to Tibesti once due to the complexity and cost of the expedition, but the three weeks I spent there in 2022 rank among my most profound travel experiences. We encountered fewer than a dozen other tourists during the entire journey.

Key attractions include:

  • Trou au Natron: A spectacular volcanic crater with natron deposits creating geometric white patterns
  • Yi-Yerra hot springs: Geothermal pools in the middle of the desert
  • Toussidé volcano: With its perfectly formed crater
  • Encounters with Toubou nomads, who maintain traditional lifestyles in one of Earth’s harshest environments

This is not an easy trip. Expeditions typically require:

  • 2-3 weeks total duration
  • Special permits (arranged by tour operators)
  • Multiple 4×4 vehicles and experienced drivers
  • Budget of 3,500-5,000 USD per person

Security conditions change frequently in this border region. As of early 2025, expeditions are possible with proper arrangements, but always check the latest situation before booking.

Cultural Experiences in Chad

N’Djamena: Gateway to Chad

Most visitors spend little time in Chad’s capital before heading to natural attractions, but N’Djamena deserves at least two days of exploration. The city offers insights into Chad’s complex identity as a crossroads between Arab and sub-Saharan African cultures.

Essential experiences include:

  • Chad National Museum: Houses the famous Toumaï skull (Sahelanthropus tchadensis), one of the oldest hominid fossils ever discovered. Entry fee: 5,000 CFA (about 8 USD).
  • Grand Marché: A sensory explosion where you can shop for traditional fabrics, silver Tuareg jewelry, and food products from across the country. The market has become more organized since 2023, with dedicated sections for different goods.
  • Avenue Charles de Gaulle: The main commercial strip with the city’s best restaurants and shops.

Money-saving tip: For excellent, affordable local food, skip tourist restaurants and head to “La Tchadienne” near the market. Their grilled fish with piment sauce costs about 3,000 CFA (5 USD) and remains one of my favorite meals in all of Chad.

Where to Stay in N’Djamena:

Hotel Price Range (USD) Notes
Hilton N’Djamena 180-250 Best luxury option with pool and reliable internet
Hotel du Chari 90-120 Mid-range with good restaurant and location
Auberge le Sahel 40-60 Budget option popular with overlanders

While in N’Djamena, learn a few basic Arabic and French phrases to help navigate the city:

  • Salaam aleikum (Hello/Peace be upon you)
  • Shukran (Thank you in Arabic)
  • La choukran (No thank you)
  • Ça coûte combien? (How much does it cost? in French)

Traditional Villages and Cultural Encounters

Some of my most meaningful experiences in Chad have been cultural exchanges in rural villages. The country has over 200 ethnic groups, each with distinct traditions. Here are some authentic cultural experiences worth seeking:

Sara Communities of Southern Chad

The agriculturalist Sara peoples constitute Chad’s largest ethnic group. From bases in Moundou or Sarh, you can visit villages where traditions like scarification (though now less common) and elaborate harvest ceremonies continue.

In the Moyen-Chari region, I participated in a traditional millet beer brewing session with a family who explained how this process connects to ancestral spirits. The grandmother, seeing my interest, shared: “Ndikaï na ayen” (“Good things come from sharing” in Sara language).

Respectful Visiting: Always ask permission before photographing people, and consider bringing small gifts like tea or sugar rather than giving money directly. I never visit villages without a local guide who can translate and explain appropriate customs.

Gerewol Festival

If your timing is fortunate, the Wodaabe Gerewol festival is one of Africa’s most extraordinary cultural events. During this male beauty contest, Wodaabe men apply elaborate makeup and perform dances to impress potential wives. The festival usually occurs after the rainy season (September-October) near the border with Niger.

Attending requires advance planning with specialized operators like Eye Contact Africa, who work directly with Wodaabe communities. Expect to pay 1,800-2,500 USD for a week-long experience including the festival.

Pottery Making in Gaoui

Just 15km from N’Djamena, the village of Gaoui is renowned for traditional Kotoko pottery. You can watch artisans using techniques passed down for generations and purchase pieces directly from the creators. A visit costs about 15,000 CFA (25 USD) including transport from the capital.

Practical Travel Tips for Chad

Transportation Options

Getting around Chad requires patience and flexibility. Based on my experiences, here are your main options:

International Access

N’Djamena International Airport (NDJ) is serviced by:

  • Air France (from Paris)
  • Ethiopian Airlines (from Addis Ababa)
  • Turkish Airlines (from Istanbul)
  • Royal Air Maroc (from Casablanca)
  • EgyptAir (from Cairo)

Money-saving flight tip: Book flights 4-5 months in advance and consider multi-city options. On my last trip, I saved over 300 USD by flying into N’Djamena but out of Douala, Cameroon, which I reached by land transfer.

Within Chad

Transport Type Pros Cons Cost
Domestic Flights Save time on long distances Limited routes, frequent cancellations 150-250 USD one-way
Private 4×4 with Driver Flexible, reaches remote areas Expensive for solo travelers 150-200 USD per day
Shared Bush Taxis Very affordable, local experience Uncomfortable, unpredictable schedule 5-20 USD depending on distance
Organized Tours Logistics handled, reliable Less flexibility for spontaneous detours Varies widely

For most tourists, arranged tours with 4×4 vehicles are the most practical option, especially for desert regions. If you’re adventurous and speak French, bush taxis connect major towns, but prepare for cramped conditions and frequent breakdowns.

Mistake I made: On my first trip, I tried to reach Lake Chad independently using public transport. After three days of breakdowns, schedule changes, and miscommunications, I ended up paying more than if I’d arranged a proper tour from the beginning. Sometimes the “budget” option costs more in the end!

Accommodation Realities

Outside of N’Djamena and major provincial capitals, accommodation options are limited. Expect:

  • Basic guesthouses in provincial towns (30-60 USD per night)
  • Camping during expeditions to remote areas
  • Occasional luxury options at premium prices (Camp Nomade in Zakouma)

Always carry your own mosquito net, even if accommodations claim to provide them. Power outages are common, so a good headlamp with extra batteries is essential.

Money Matters

Chad uses the Central African CFA franc (XAF), currently exchanging at approximately 600 CFA to 1 USD. Important financial points:

  • Cash is king outside N’Djamena. ATMs are unreliable and often empty.
  • Bring euros or US dollars to exchange. New, uncreased bills get better rates.
  • Major hotels in the capital accept credit cards, but expect a 3-5% surcharge.
  • Bargaining is expected in markets but not for set-price items or services.

Sustainability tip that saves money: Bring a good water filter bottle like the LifeStraw or Grayl. You’ll avoid buying plastic water bottles (which often end up as litter) and save about 15-20 USD per week on drinking water.

Communication and Connectivity

Internet access has improved significantly since 2023, but remains limited:

  • Major towns have 3G/4G coverage through Airtel or Moov (formerly Tigo).
  • Local SIM cards cost about 2,000 CFA (3 USD) plus credit.
  • 1GB of data costs approximately 5,000 CFA (8 USD).
  • Remote areas have no connectivity—embrace the digital detox!

For emergency communication in wilderness areas, consider renting a satellite phone or Garmin InReach from your tour operator (usually 10-15 USD per day).

Health and Safety Precautions

Chad’s limited healthcare infrastructure makes prevention crucial:

  • Required vaccinations: Yellow fever
  • Highly recommended: Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, Meningitis, routine vaccines
  • Malaria prevention: Take appropriate prophylaxis and use repellent
  • Bring a comprehensive medical kit including antibiotics, antimalarials, and diarrhea treatment

The best medical facilities are in N’Djamena, with Clinique Première Urgence and Clinique Castor offering services for foreigners. For serious issues, evacuation to Europe may be necessary—ensure your insurance covers this.

Insider safety tip: Register your trip with your country’s embassy in N’Djamena. The French and American embassies in particular maintain good information about regional security conditions and can be contacted in emergencies.

Authentic Food Experiences in Chad

Chadian cuisine reflects the country’s position at the crossroads of African and Arabic culinary traditions. Don’t expect fancy restaurants—the best food experiences are often simple, flavorful, and shared with locals.

Must-Try Chadian Dishes

  • Daraba: A rich stew made with okra, meat, and peanut butter, usually served with rice or millet boule.
  • La Boule: A staple carbohydrate made from millet, sorghum, or maize flour, formed into a dough-like ball and used to scoop up sauces.
  • Maafe: Meat slow-cooked in a thick peanut sauce—Chad’s version is particularly spicy.
  • Fresh Lake Chad fish: Often grilled whole with spices and served with a hot piment sauce.
  • Jarret de boeuf: Beef shank slowly simmered with vegetables and spices. The French colonial influence is evident in this dish.

Don’t miss trying Karkanji, a refreshing hibiscus drink, and Chadian tea (often brewed with mint and lots of sugar).

Sensory memory: I’ll never forget sharing a communal bowl of daraba with a Zaghawa family near Abeché. The blend of spicy, nutty flavors combined with the family’s generous hospitality created one of those perfect travel moments that no luxury restaurant could match.

Where to Eat

In N’Djamena, try:

  • Le Carnivore: Famous for grilled meats. Dinner costs 15,000-20,000 CFA (25-35 USD).
  • Restaurant La Tchadienne: Authentic local dishes at reasonable prices (5,000-10,000 CFA / 8-16 USD).
  • Café du Chaï: Great for people-watching and trying Chadian tea culture.

Outside the capital, eat where locals eat. Roadside grills serving freshly prepared meat skewers (often goat) with raw onions and piment are usually safe and delicious. Expect to pay 1,500-3,000 CFA (2.50-5 USD) for a filling meal.

Planning Your Chad Itinerary

Sample Itineraries by Duration

10-Day Essential Chad

  1. Days 1-2: N’Djamena exploration, museum, markets
  2. Days 3-8: Zakouma National Park safari
  3. Day 9: Return to N’Djamena, pottery village at Gaoui
  4. Day 10: Final shopping, departure

Approximate cost: 2,500-3,000 USD per person excluding international flights

14-Day Northern Expedition

  1. Days 1-2: N’Djamena
  2. Days 3-11: Ennedi Plateau expedition
  3. Day 12: Return to N’Djamena
  4. Day 13: Day trip to Lake Chad from N’Djamena
  5. Day 14: Departure

Approximate cost: 3,000-3,500 USD per person excluding international flights

21-Day Complete Chad Adventure

  1. Days 1-2: N’Djamena
  2. Days 3-9: Zakouma National Park
  3. Days 10-11: Return to N’Djamena, rest day
  4. Days 12-19: Ennedi Plateau expedition
  5. Day 20: Return to N’Djamena
  6. Day 21: Departure

Approximate cost: 5,000-6,000 USD per person excluding international flights

Money-saving strategy: If you’re flexible with dates, ask tour operators about joining existing group departures rather than arranging private trips. This can reduce costs by 20-30%, especially for expensive destinations like Ennedi.

Recommended Tour Operators

Based on personal experience, these operators provide reliable service and cultural sensitivity:

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Visiting Chad

Chad offers experiences that increasingly rare in our hyper-connected world: genuine adventure, cultural authenticity, and landscapes that few have witnessed. Though challenging at times, it rewards travelers with moments of discovery that define a lifetime of exploration.

Ready to make this journey happen? Here’s your actionable plan:

  1. Determine your priorities: Wildlife (Zakouma), landscapes (Ennedi), or cultural experiences? Chad is vast, so focus your first trip.
  2. Contact operators 6-8 months in advance: Especially important for peak season (November-February) visits to secure limited accommodations.
  3. Sort documentation early: Apply for visas 2-3 months before travel, ensure your passport has adequate validity, and confirm required vaccinations.
  4. Prepare physically and mentally: Chad involves long travel days and basic conditions. Pack appropriately (detailed packing lists are available from operators) and bring a positive, flexible attitude.
  5. Connect with Chad before arrival: Read books like “Surviving the Sahara” by Camille Lavoix or watch documentaries like “The Forgotten Expedition” to deepen your appreciation of the places you’ll visit.

Remember that tourism remains relatively new to Chad. Your visit directly supports conservation efforts, provides income to remote communities, and helps build a sustainable alternative to extractive industries. By approaching Chad with respect, openness, and a desire to learn, you’ll not only have an extraordinary adventure but contribute positively to the country’s future.

As the Chadian proverb says: “A traveler with knowledge is never lost.” I hope this guide helps you find your way to one of Africa’s most remarkable destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chad safe for tourists?

Chad has specific regions that are safe for tourism and others that should be avoided. Popular tourist destinations like Zakouma National Park, the Ennedi Plateau, and N’Djamena have good security records when visited with proper guidance. The security situation has improved since 2021, but it’s essential to travel with reputable operators who monitor conditions and have local connections. Border regions with Libya, Sudan, and parts of the Lake Chad basin require special permissions and sometimes military escorts.

What’s the best time of year to visit Chad?

The optimal time is during the dry season from October to April, with November through February offering the most pleasant temperatures. For wildlife viewing in Zakouma National Park, February to early April provides the best concentration of animals around remaining water sources. The Ennedi Plateau is best visited between November and March. Avoid the rainy season (May-September) when many roads become impassable.

How much should I budget for a trip to Chad?

Chad is not a budget destination due to logistical challenges and limited infrastructure. A 10-day trip typically costs 2,500-3,500 USD per person excluding international flights. This includes accommodations, transportation, activities, and most meals. Expeditions to remote areas like the Ennedi Plateau or Tibesti Mountains can cost 3,500-5,000 USD for a 10-14 day journey. Traveling with others significantly reduces per-person costs.

Do I need a visa to visit Chad?

Yes, almost all nationalities require a visa to enter Chad. As of 2025, Chad offers an e-visa system that has simplified the process somewhat. Applications should be made 1-2 months before travel through Chadian embassies or the online portal. A single-entry tourist visa costs approximately 100 USD and typically allows a 30-day stay.

What languages are spoken in Chad?

French and Arabic are the official languages. French is useful for communication in official contexts and with educated Chadians, particularly in the south. Arabic (specifically Chadian Arabic or “Shuwa Arabic”) is widely spoken, especially in the north and central regions. Additionally, there are over 120 indigenous languages, with Sara languages predominant in the south. English is not widely spoken outside international hotels in N’Djamena.

What vaccinations do I need for Chad?

Yellow fever vaccination is legally required and proof must be shown upon entry. Additionally, healthcare professionals typically recommend vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, tetanus, and polio. Malaria prophylaxis is essential. Consult a travel medicine specialist at least 8 weeks before departure to ensure adequate time for vaccinations to become effective.

Can I self-drive in Chad?

Self-driving is possible but presents significant challenges. You’ll need to rent a reliable 4×4 vehicle (around 150-200 USD per day), obtain special driving permits, and have experience with desert navigation. Most routes outside major towns lack signage, fuel stations are scarce, and breakdowns in remote areas can be dangerous. For these reasons, most visitors opt for guided tours with experienced local drivers.

What should I pack for Chad?

Essentials include lightweight, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees), a wide-brimmed hat, quality sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, a headlamp with spare batteries, a versatile medical kit, water purification method, and a sleeping bag for expeditions. Temperatures vary dramatically between day and night in desert regions, so layering is important. A small gift for hosts or guides (like photos from your home country) is always appreciated.

Is there internet and phone service in Chad?

Mobile coverage exists in major towns and some rural areas through providers like Airtel and Moov, but is absent in remote regions. 3G/4G is available in N’Djamena and provincial capitals, but connection speeds are often slow. Local SIM cards are affordable (around 3 USD) and data packages reasonable (8 USD for 1GB). For expeditions to the Ennedi or Tibesti, expect to be completely offline—many travelers value this digital detox aspect of visiting Chad.

What are the accommodation options like in Chad?

Accommodation ranges from international-standard hotels in N’Djamena (120-250 USD/night) to basic guesthouses in provincial towns (30-60 USD/night). In remote areas, expect camping or very simple lodging. Zakouma National Park offers two options: the luxury Camp Nomade (750 USD/night all-inclusive) or the more affordable Tinga Camp (100-150 USD/night). Facilities outside the capital are generally basic—consider accommodation in Chad as a place to rest rather than a highlight of the experience.

References and Additional Resources

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