Introduction: My Chad Journey
The first time I landed at N’Djamena International Airport (NDJ) back in 2018, I was completely unprepared. My visa paperwork was incomplete, I had no local currency, and I’d foolishly assumed my basic French would easily get me by. Fast forward several visits later, and I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—how to navigate this fascinating but challenging Central African nation. This comprehensive guide combines everything I wish I’d known before my first trip, updated with fresh insights from my most recent visit in early 2024.
Chad remains one of Africa’s least visited countries, but for adventurous travelers willing to navigate its complexities, it offers incredible rewards: pristine desert landscapes, remarkable wildlife in Zakouma National Park, and some of the most resilient and welcoming people I’ve encountered anywhere.
“Chad will test your patience, expand your perspective, and reward your persistence in ways few other destinations can.” – My journal entry after my third visit
Essential Visa and Entry Requirements
Obtaining a Chadian visa remains one of the most challenging aspects of visiting the country. In 2025, the process has improved somewhat, but planning ahead is absolutely crucial.
Visa Application Process
- Advance planning: Start your visa application at least 8 weeks before your intended travel date
- Letter of invitation: Required from a local contact or tour operator (I recommend Sahara Footprints who saved my trip twice)
- Visa fees: Approximately 100,000 CFA (about $160) for a single-entry tourist visa
- Required documents: Passport (valid for 6 months beyond entry), 2 passport photos, return flight confirmation, hotel reservations, and yellow fever vaccination certificate
When I arrived in 2022, I discovered they had added a requirement for a negative COVID test that wasn’t listed on any official website. While this requirement has been dropped for 2025, it taught me to always double-check the latest requirements with your nearest Chadian embassy or consulate before traveling.
Airport Arrival in N’Djamena
N’Djamena International Airport (NDJ) can be overwhelming. Here’s my step-by-step arrival process:
- Have your passport, visa, and yellow fever certificate ready
- Complete the arrival form (given on the plane or at immigration)
- Proceed through immigration (can take 30-90 minutes)
- Collect your baggage (baggage handlers will offer help for tips—100-200 CFA is appropriate)
- Pass through customs (they may inspect luggage thoroughly)
- Exchange some money at the airport booth (rates are poor, but you’ll need cash for transportation)
- Arrange transport to your accommodation (pre-arrange if possible)
Safety and Security: What You Need to Know
Chad’s security situation fluctuates. During my 2023 visit, I noticed increased stability in N’Djamena, but border regions remain volatile. Here’s my honest assessment:
Current Security Situation (2025)
N’Djamena and southern tourist areas like Zakouma National Park are generally safe for visitors, but the security landscape can change quickly. Before my last trip, tensions flared near the Sudanese border, causing last-minute itinerary changes.
The Lake Chad region, northern and eastern border areas should be avoided entirely due to terrorist activity. In 2022, I met a French photographer who had attempted to visit Lake Chad independently—he was detained for three days by military officials before being escorted back to N’Djamena.
Safety Tips from Personal Experience
- Register with your embassy upon arrival (the French Embassy assists EU citizens)
- Hire reputable guides for travel outside N’Djamena (I use Tchad Aventure)
- Avoid night travel outside the capital—my scariest experience was a breakdown after dark near Abéché
- Keep copies of documents separate from originals (I keep digital copies in my email)
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage
When I developed a severe infection in southern Chad in 2021, my evacuation insurance proved invaluable. Without it, I would have faced a $22,000 medical evacuation bill to receive proper treatment.
Common Scams and How to Avoid Them
Be vigilant about these scams I’ve encountered personally:
- “Lost” taxi fares: Drivers claiming the agreed price was per person, not total fare
- Police “fines”: Officers claiming passport/visa issues that require immediate payment
- Friendly “guides”: People offering unsolicited tour services then demanding payment
- Currency confusion: Merchants counting in old francs to confuse travelers about prices
Transportation: Getting Around Chad
Transportation in Chad remains challenging but has improved somewhat by 2025. Here’s what I’ve learned through numerous visits:
In N’Djamena
The capital offers several transportation options:
- Taxis: Ubiquitous white-and-green shared taxis cost 500-1000 CFA ($0.80-1.60) per ride within central areas. I always negotiate before entering and specify “course entière” (entire trip) if you want a private ride.
- Moto-taxis: Faster but more dangerous. I use these only for short distances in light traffic. Expect to pay 300-500 CFA ($0.50-0.80) for short trips.
- Car rental: Available from agencies like Europcar at around 60,000-80,000 CFA ($100-130) daily, but I don’t recommend self-driving unless you have extensive African driving experience.
- Private drivers: My preferred option—around 40,000 CFA ($65) per day through hotels or tour agencies.
Intercity Travel
| Route | Transport Type | Approx. Cost (2025) | Travel Time | Comfort Level | Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N’Djamena → Abéché | Bush taxi | 15,000 CFA ($25) | 12-15 hours | Very low | Medium (daylight only) |
| N’Djamena → Moundou | Minibus | 10,000 CFA ($16) | 8-10 hours | Low | Medium-High |
| N’Djamena → Zakouma | 4×4 vehicle (private) | 250,000 CFA ($400) round trip | 9-12 hours | Medium | High with guide |
| N’Djamena → Bol (Lake Chad) | 4×4 convoy only | Part of tour package | 8-10 hours | Medium | Low (security permission required) |
My biggest transportation mistake was attempting to take a “fast” bush taxi from N’Djamena to Abéché in 2019. The vehicle was dangerously overloaded, broke down twice, and the 12-hour journey stretched to 26 hours. Since then, I always arrange private transportation through my accommodation or a tour operator for intercity travel.
Domestic Flights
Chad’s domestic air network is limited but has expanded slightly for 2025:
- Tchadia Airlines (joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines) offers flights from N’Djamena to Moundou, Sarh, and Abéché
- Flights cost 150,000-200,000 CFA ($240-320) round-trip
- Schedules change frequently—confirm directly with the airline
Accommodation Options and Recommendations
Accommodation options in Chad have expanded since my first visit, though quality standards differ significantly from Western expectations. Here are my personal recommendations based on places I’ve actually stayed:
N’Djamena Accommodations
Luxury Options
- Hilton N’Djamena: The most reliable luxury option with Western standards. I’ve stayed here three times when my budget allowed. Rooms from 140,000 CFA ($225)/night. Excellent security, reliable Wi-Fi, and good restaurants on-site.
- Radisson Blu N’Djamena: Newer than the Hilton with slightly better amenities. I stayed here in 2023 and appreciated the rooftop pool with views over the Chari River. Rooms from 150,000 CFA ($240)/night.
Mid-Range Options
- Hôtel La Tchadienne: My go-to when on a moderate budget. Simple but clean rooms with A/C and decent Wi-Fi. From 45,000 CFA ($72)/night. Located in a quieter area near embassies.
- Hôtel Toumai: Recently renovated with surprisingly comfortable beds (a rarity in Chad!). Good restaurant serving local specialties. From 55,000 CFA ($88)/night.
Budget Options
- Auberge Le Sahel: My first-ever accommodation in Chad (35,000 CFA, $56/night). Basic but safe with helpful staff. Shared bathrooms in some rooms.
- Centre d’Accueil des Sœurs: Run by Catholic nuns, this simple guesthouse offers clean, no-frills rooms from 20,000 CFA ($32)/night. My recommendation for solo female travelers on a budget.
Accommodation Beyond the Capital
Outside N’Djamena, options become significantly more limited:
- Zakouma National Park: Camp Nomade (luxury, $500+/night) or Tinga Camp (basic, $150/night). Booking through African Parks is essential. My 2022 stay at Tinga was basic but the wildlife viewing compensated for any discomfort.
- Moundou: Hôtel de la Forêt, where I stayed in 2021 (40,000 CFA, $64/night). Simple rooms with unreliable electricity.
- Abéché: Hôtel Ennedi (30,000 CFA, $48/night). Very basic accommodations, but the only reliable option I found.
Insider Accommodation Tips
These hard-earned lessons will save you hassle:
- Power outages: Frequent even in upscale hotels. I always travel with a power bank and headlamp.
- Water availability: Hot water is unreliable outside luxury hotels. Morning showers typically have better hot water supply.
- Wi-Fi reality: “Wi-Fi available” often means “sometimes works in the lobby.” My solution: buy a local SIM for tethering.
- Booking deposits: Most local hotels require bank transfer deposits that can be challenging to arrange. I’ve had success using TransferWise (now Wise) for this purpose.
Money Matters: Currency, Banking and Costs
Managing money in Chad requires planning and awareness. I’ve learned expensive lessons about Chad’s cash economy over my various trips.
Currency Information
Chad uses the Central African CFA franc (XAF), commonly written as FCFA or simply CFA. As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately:
- 1 USD = 615 CFA
- 1 EUR = 655 CFA (fixed exchange rate)
- 1 GBP = 780 CFA
Notes come in denominations of 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, and 500 CFA. Coins (rarely used) include 500, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5, and 1 CFA.
Banking and ATMs
On my first trip, I naively assumed ATMs would be as available as in neighboring Cameroon. Big mistake! Here’s the reality:
- Functioning ATMs exist only in N’Djamena, primarily at major banks like ECOBANK, BSIC, and Société Générale
- Many ATMs don’t accept foreign cards or have very low withdrawal limits (often 150,000 CFA/$240 per transaction)
- ATMs frequently run out of cash, especially on weekends
- Most reliable ATM I’ve found: Société Générale branch near Café Milan in N’Djamena
Money-Saving Insider Tips
Here are my three best money-saving tips for Chad that you won’t find in guidebooks:
- Currency exchange hack: The best rates I’ve found are at the Lebanese-owned fabric shops in the Grand Marché (Central Market). They typically offer 3-5% better rates than hotels or banks for USD and EUR. Ask for “Mr. Hassan” at Textile Moderne—he gave me excellent rates when I mentioned I was referred by a previous customer.
- Negotiating accommodation: For stays longer than three nights, negotiate directly with hotel management (not reception). I’ve secured discounts of 15-30% this way, especially during low season (June-August). Paying cash upfront can yield additional discounts.
- Transportation bundle: Instead of hiring different drivers daily, negotiate a weekly rate with one reliable driver. I paid 180,000 CFA ($290) for a week of service in N’Djamena (8 hours daily) versus the standard daily rate of 40,000 CFA ($65), saving nearly 30%.
Tipping Culture
Based on my experience, here’s what’s appropriate:
- Restaurants: 5-10% in upscale establishments, rounded up to nearest 500 CFA elsewhere
- Hotel staff: 1,000-2,000 CFA ($1.60-3.20) per day for housekeeping
- Guides: 5,000-10,000 CFA ($8-16) per day depending on service quality
- Drivers: 3,000-5,000 CFA ($5-8) per day for good service
Estimated Daily Costs (2025)
| Budget Level | Accommodation | Meals | Transportation | Activities | Daily Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | 20,000-35,000 CFA ($32-56) |
5,000-10,000 CFA ($8-16) |
3,000-5,000 CFA ($5-8) |
0-5,000 CFA ($0-8) |
28,000-55,000 CFA ($45-88) |
| Mid-range | 40,000-80,000 CFA ($64-130) |
12,000-25,000 CFA ($19-40) |
15,000-25,000 CFA ($24-40) |
10,000-20,000 CFA ($16-32) |
77,000-150,000 CFA ($123-242) |
| Luxury | 100,000+ CFA ($160+) |
30,000+ CFA ($48+) |
40,000+ CFA ($64+) |
Varies widely | 170,000+ CFA ($272+) |
Communication and Technology
Staying connected in Chad has improved since my first visit but still presents challenges. Here’s my practical advice:
Mobile Networks and SIM Cards
Based on my testing across multiple visits, here’s my assessment of Chad’s mobile networks:
- Airtel: My top recommendation with the best overall coverage, particularly in N’Djamena and along major routes. 4G available in larger cities.
- Tigo: Good alternative with competitive data packages, sometimes better in southern regions.
- Salam: Limited coverage but sometimes the only option in remote northeastern areas.
To purchase a SIM card, you’ll need your passport for registration (strictly enforced since 2020). I recommend buying from official shops rather than street vendors to ensure proper registration.
Current costs (2025):
- SIM card: 1,000-2,000 CFA ($1.60-3.20)
- Data packages: 5GB for approximately 5,000 CFA ($8)
- Voice/SMS packages: 2,000-5,000 CFA ($3.20-8) for various bundles
My connectivity hack: I always maintain SIM cards from both Airtel and Tigo, switching between them depending on location and service quality.
Internet Access
Internet connectivity in Chad can be frustratingly inconsistent:
- Hotel Wi-Fi is often slow (0.5-2 Mbps) and unreliable
- Mobile data typically provides more consistent connectivity
- Power outages frequently disrupt service
- Social media has occasionally been blocked during political tensions
During a particularly frustrating connectivity drought at my hotel in 2022, I discovered that the Café du Centre in central N’Djamena had installed fiber internet. It became my workstation for three days, with the added bonus of excellent croissants. Look for unexpected solutions when technology fails!
Essential Apps and Technology Prep
Before visiting Chad, I recommend downloading these apps and making these preparations:
- WhatsApp: The primary communication tool in Chad for both personal and business interactions
- Maps.me or OsmAnd: Offline maps with surprising detail for Chad (Google Maps is less reliable outside major cities)
- Google Translate: Download the French offline package
- VPN app: Useful during occasional internet restrictions (I use ExpressVPN)
- Local emergency contacts: Save the French embassy contact (if applicable) and your hotel information
Technology preparation checklist:
- Portable power bank (essential for long power cuts)
- Universal adapter with surge protection
- Dust-protective cases/covers for electronics
- Backup hard copies of important documents and contacts
Essential Phrases in French and Local Languages
While French is Chad’s official language, I’ve found that learning a few phrases in local languages opens doors and creates instant connections. Here are some essential expressions I’ve collected over my visits:
French Phrases
| French | English | Usage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Bonjour / Bonsoir | Hello / Good evening | Always greet people before starting conversation |
| Comment allez-vous? | How are you? | Formal greeting |
| Ça va? | How’s it going? | Informal greeting |
| Merci beaucoup | Thank you very much | Essential for all interactions |
| S’il vous plaît | Please | Shows respect |
| Excusez-moi | Excuse me | For attention or apology |
| Combien ça coûte? | How much does this cost? | Essential for markets |
| C’est trop cher | That’s too expensive | For negotiating |
| Je ne comprends pas | I don’t understand | Useful when confused |
| Où est…? | Where is…? | For finding locations |
| Au secours! | Help! | For emergencies |
Arabic Phrases
Chadian Arabic differs from standard Arabic and is widely spoken, especially in N’Djamena and northern regions. Using these phrases has helped me connect with locals:
- Salam aleikum (سلام عليكم) – Peace be upon you (greeting)
- Aleikum salam (عليكم سلام) – And upon you peace (response)
- Shukran (شكرا) – Thank you
- Afwan (عفوا) – You’re welcome
- Keyf halak? (كيف حالك) – How are you?
- Tamam (تمام) – Good/OK
Sara Phrases
Sara is spoken widely in southern Chad. During my time in the Moundou region, these phrases proved invaluable:
- Lapiya – Hello/Peace
- M’labi – Thank you
- Djoré – Water
My most memorable language experience in Chad was when I greeted an elderly vendor in the Moundou market with “Lapiya” instead of the usual French. Her face lit up with such genuine delight that she insisted on giving me extra mangoes with my purchase and introduced me to everyone nearby as her “new friend from far away.”
Cultural Etiquette and Customs
Understanding and respecting Chad’s cultural norms will significantly enhance your experience. My most awkward moments have come from cultural misunderstandings, while my most rewarding connections have resulted from showing respect for local customs.
General Etiquette
- Greetings: Take time with greetings—they’re not just pleasantries but essential social rituals. I once offended a local official by getting straight to business without the proper greeting exchanges.
- Right hand usage: Always eat, pass objects, and shake hands with your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean. I absent-mindedly offered payment with my left hand at a market stall in 2019 and received a gentle but firm correction.
- Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people. Government buildings, military personnel, and infrastructure are strictly off-limits for photography. My camera was briefly confiscated near the presidential palace when I photographed a nearby mosque without realizing the security implications.
- Dress code: Conservative dress is important, especially outside tourist areas. Women should cover shoulders and knees (I pack lightweight scarves and below-knee skirts). Men should avoid shorts in urban areas.
Religious Considerations
Chad’s population is roughly 55% Muslim, 40% Christian, with traditional beliefs often incorporated into both faiths.
- Ramadan: During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect. Businesses operate on reduced hours. I visited during Ramadan in 2021 and found it a fascinating cultural experience, though challenging for scheduling.
- Friday prayers: Many businesses close Friday afternoon for Muslim prayers. Plan accordingly.
- Religious sites: Dress particularly modestly when visiting mosques or churches. Women should cover their hair when entering mosques.
Social Customs That Surprised Me
- Indirect communication: Direct criticism or contradiction is considered rude. When my hotel room in Abéché had serious issues, my direct complaints got nowhere until I learned to frame them as “perhaps there might be a better room available?”
- Time flexibility: “African time” is real in Chad. Appointments often start 30-60 minutes late. I’ve learned to build buffer time into my schedule and bring a book.
- Bargaining etiquette: Negotiating prices is expected, but should be done respectfully. Start around 50-60% of the asking price and work up. Walking away is part of the dance. My best purchases came after I began negotiating with humor rather than determination.
- Hospitality expectations: If invited to a Chadian home, bring a small gift (fruit, pastries, or quality tea are appropriate). Refusing food or drink can be offensive—at least take a token amount.
My Cultural Mistakes
Learn from my embarrassing moments:
- The handshake error: In 2018, I extended a firm, quick Western-style handshake to a village elder near Moundou. I should have used a gentler grip and longer duration to show respect. His bemused expression taught me to adapt my greeting style.
- The rushed meal: During my first group dinner in N’Djamena, I finished my food quickly (habit from busy workdays) while others were eating slowly and conversing. This apparently signaled dissatisfaction with the food or company. Now I pace myself to match the group.
- The water faux pas: I drank directly from a water bottle during a community meeting in a village outside Sarh. I should have poured it into a glass first, as drinking directly from bottles in formal settings is considered inappropriate.
- The pointing problem: I pointed directly at items I wanted to purchase in a market. Pointing with one finger is considered rude—use your full hand or chin instead.
Food and Drink: What to Expect
Chadian cuisine blends French colonial influences with Arabic and traditional African cooking. Some of my most memorable experiences have centered around food—from street stalls to home-cooked meals with local friends.
Must-Try Chadian Dishes
- Boule: A starchy ball made from millet, sorghum, or corn, served with various sauces. The staple food throughout Chad. I was initially underwhelmed until a friend’s mother served it with a rich okra and dried fish sauce that changed my perspective entirely.
- Daraba: A rich stew made with okra, meat (usually beef or lamb), and peanut butter. My personal favorite Chadian dish, especially the version served at Restaurant La Tchadienne in N’Djamena.
- Jarret de Boeuf: Slow-cooked beef shank, reflecting French influence. The version at Le Carnivore restaurant is fall-off-the-bone tender.
- Fresh fish from the Chari River: Often grilled and served with piment (hot sauce) and plantains. Best enjoyed at the riverside restaurants in Sabangali neighborhood.
- Méchoui: Whole roasted lamb prepared for special occasions. I was fortunate to experience this at a wedding celebration in 2022—the meat was incredibly tender and flavored with garlic and herbs.
Dining Experiences by Budget
| Budget Level | Experience Type | Cost Range | Recommendations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Street food & local eateries | 1,000-3,000 CFA ($1.60-4.80) |
Market stalls in Grand Marché; Boule stands near Marché à Mil | Basic conditions but authentic; bring hand sanitizer |
| Mid-range | Local restaurants | 5,000-12,000 CFA ($8-19) |
Restaurant Babylone; La Tchadienne; Le Sahel | Good value with clean preparation |
| High-end | Hotel restaurants & international cuisine | 15,000-30,000 CFA ($24-48) |
Le Carnivore; La Terrasse (Hilton); Le Bistrot (Radisson) | Western standards; good for business meetings |
Food Safety Tips
After one serious bout of food poisoning in 2019 that left me bedridden for three days, I’ve become vigilant about food safety:
- Stick to bottled water (check the seal is intact)
- Avoid raw vegetables unless at high-end establishments
- Eat at busy places with high turnover
- Choose freshly cooked, hot foods
- Bring anti-diarrheal medication and oral rehydration salts
Drink Specialties
- Karkanji: A refreshing hibiscus drink, served hot or cold. My preferred version is slightly sweetened and chilled.
- Dégué: Yogurt mixed with millet balls. Available from street vendors in the afternoons. Proceed with caution due to dairy in hot weather.
- Traditional tea: Served in three rounds—”the death,” “the life,” and “the love.” Each progressively sweeter than the last. A beautiful social ritual that shouldn’t be rushed.
- Local beer: Gala brand is widely available. Best enjoyed ice-cold at sunset after a hot day.
Sensory memory: The aroma of charcoal grills along the Chari River at sunset, where fish fresh from the water are prepared with nothing more than salt, lime, and chili. The sound of sizzling fish skin mingles with French and Arabic conversations while smoke carries the scent of dinner into the cooling evening air.
Top Experiences and Attractions
While Chad isn’t known for its tourist infrastructure, it offers remarkable experiences for adventurous travelers. Here are my personal highlights from multiple visits:
N’Djamena Highlights
- N’Djamena Grand Marché: The central market is a sensory overload but offers the most authentic glimpse into daily Chadian life. I spent hours photographing the vibrant textiles section and practicing my limited Chadian Arabic with spice vendors. Go early (7-9am) for the best experience before the heat intensifies.
- Chad National Museum: Houses impressive archaeological artifacts and ethnographic displays. The prehistoric section featuring the Toumaï skull (one of the oldest hominid fossils) was a highlight of my 2020 visit. Admission: 3,000 CFA ($5).
- Chari River sunset: Join locals at the riverside near Avenue Charles de Gaulle for the nightly social ritual of watching the sunset. Street vendors sell tea and snacks while families and friends gather. One of my most peaceful memories is sharing tea here with a local teacher who explained the river’s cultural significance.
Beyond the Capital
- Zakouma National Park: The crown jewel of Chad’s conservation efforts and my most memorable Chadian experience. After near-decimation by poachers, elephant populations are rebounding thanks to African Parks’ management. My 2023 visit included witnessing a herd of 500+ elephants—an unforgettable sight. The park also hosts lions, giraffes, and exceptional birdlife. Plan 4-5 days minimum, best visited January-April.
- Lakes of Ounianga: These UNESCO World Heritage desert lakes in northeastern Chad feature stunning blue waters amid Saharan dunes. Logistically challenging to reach (4×4 mandatory, security permissions required), but worth the effort. My 2021 expedition here ranks among my most otherworldly travel experiences.
- Ennedi Massif: Spectacular rock formations and ancient rock art in Chad’s northeastern desert. The “Guelta d’Archei” where camels gather at a hidden canyon water source was particularly magical. Requires a well-organized expedition with permits.
- Douguia: Located 100km from N’Djamena, this river village offers boat trips to observe hippos and waterbirds. I stayed at the basic but charming Campement de Douguia, which arranges river excursions.
Seasonal Experiences
- Gerewol Festival: The Wodaabe people’s remarkable beauty contest where men adorn themselves elaborately to impress women. This September festival in the Lake Chad region requires advance planning with specialized tour operators.
- Fishing Festival (Yodé): Held in the Logone River (southern Chad) each November. I witnessed this in 2022—hundreds of men enter the water simultaneously to catch fish by hand. A spectacular cultural tradition.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Recommendations
For truly adventurous travelers seeking experiences few others have had:
- Tibesti Mountains: Remote volcanic landscape in far northern Chad with remarkable geological features. Security concerns make this currently challenging, but it remains on my future wishlist.
- Bahr Salamat river system: Less visited than Zakouma but offering excellent wildlife viewing. I spent three days camping along the river in 2022 with a local guide and saw incredible birdlife.
- Traditional wrestling matches: Held in villages outside Moundou on weekend afternoons during the dry season. My host family took me to one—a fascinating cultural experience with ritualized elements and festive atmosphere.
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Chad
Chad challenges visitors but rewards persistence with extraordinary experiences far from conventional tourism. After multiple visits spanning six years, I’ve distilled my advice into this actionable plan:
5-Step Action Plan
- Start visa process early (3+ months ahead): Contact a local tour operator like Tchad Aventure or Sahara Footprints for invitation letters and guidance. This was my biggest initial mistake—underestimating visa complexity.
- Arrange reliable accommodation and transport: Pre-book at least your first three nights’ accommodation in N’Djamena and airport pickup. I recommend Hilton for luxury or Hôtel La Tchadienne for mid-range. Having these fundamentals sorted makes everything else easier.
- Create a health and safety kit: Pack prescription medications, insect repellent with DEET, high-SPF sunscreen, water purification tablets, and a comprehensive first-aid kit. My small medical emergency in Abéché taught me self-sufficiency is essential.
- Prepare financially: Bring new-issue USD or EUR cash in multiple denominations. Inform your bank of travel plans but don’t rely on cards. I carry cash in a secure money belt, with amounts distributed in different luggage locations.
- Connect with local expertise: Whether through formal tour arrangements or personal contacts, local knowledge transforms your experience. My most memorable moments came through connections with Chadians who shared their perspective on their country.
Sustainability Considerations
As Chad’s tourism slowly develops, responsible practices are crucial:
- Water conservation: Chad faces water scarcity. Limit shower time and reuse towels. I bring a SteriPen to purify water rather than constantly buying plastic bottles.
- Support conservation initiatives: Zakouma National Park’s entrance fees directly fund anti-poaching efforts. My visit in 2023 included a $50 conservation contribution that felt genuinely impactful.
- Respect cultural sensitivities: Conservative dress and behavior help maintain positive perceptions of tourism. I’ve noticed significantly warmer receptions when making this effort.
- Choose local businesses: Rather than always dining at hotel restaurants, seek out locally-owned alternatives. Restaurant Babylone sends profits back into community education programs.
Final Thoughts
My journey through Chad has progressively deepened from tourist to temporary resident to committed return visitor. What began as curiosity about an “impossible” destination has evolved into profound respect for a country that continues to teach me about resilience, hospitality amid scarcity, and finding joy in simplicity.
Chad will test your patience, challenge your assumptions, and occasionally frighten you. But it will also show you a raw authenticity increasingly rare in our homogenized world. If you approach Chad with respectful curiosity and adaptability, you’ll leave with experiences few travelers can claim and perspectives that permanently alter your understanding of human ingenuity and grace under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chad safe for tourists in 2025?
Parts of Chad are reasonably safe while others should be avoided entirely. N’Djamena and southern regions including Zakouma National Park generally present manageable risks with proper precautions. The Lake Chad region, eastern border with Sudan, and northern regions near Libya remain dangerous and should be avoided. Always check current travel advisories from your government before planning your trip. During my visits, I’ve found N’Djamena surprisingly secure, though I exercise normal urban precautions like avoiding night walks.
When is the best time to visit Chad?
November to February offers the most comfortable weather, with temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F) and minimal rainfall. This is ideal for wildlife viewing in Zakouma National Park when animals concentrate around shrinking water sources. I’ve visited during the hot season (March-May) when temperatures regularly exceed 45°C (113°F), which I don’t recommend unless necessary. The rainy season (June-October) makes many roads impassable but brings lush landscapes to southern regions.
Do I need a tour company to visit Chad?
While technically not required for N’Djamena, I strongly recommend working with a reputable tour operator for most visitors. They can provide crucial assistance with visa invitation letters, transportation logistics, and navigating official permissions. For destinations beyond the capital, a tour company becomes essentially mandatory due to security requirements, difficult road conditions, and limited infrastructure. My experiences with both Sahara Footprints and Tchad Aventure have been positive.
What vaccinations do I need for Chad?
Yellow fever vaccination is legally required and certificates are checked upon arrival. Beyond this mandatory vaccine, I recommend: hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, rabies, and routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, etc.). Malaria prophylaxis is essential—I take doxycycline starting two days before arrival until four weeks after departure. Consult a travel medicine specialist at least 6-8 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
Can I use credit cards in Chad?
Credit card acceptance is extremely limited, even in N’Djamena. Only the major international hotels (Hilton, Radisson Blu), a few upscale restaurants, and some tour operators accept cards—and even then, systems are frequently down. I operate on a cash basis throughout my stays, using cards only as emergency backup. Bring new, unmarked USD or EUR notes for exchange.
Is Chad expensive to visit?
Chad can be surprisingly expensive despite being among the world’s poorest countries. This paradox results from limited infrastructure, imported goods, and the high cost of security and transportation. Budget travelers can manage on $80-100 daily with basic accommodations and local food, but organized tours to destinations like Zakouma or Ennedi cost $150-300+ daily per person. My 12-day expedition to Ennedi in 2021 cost approximately $3,500 excluding international flights.
How reliable is internet and phone service in Chad?
Connectivity is improving but remains challenging. 4G mobile data is available in N’Djamena and major towns through Airtel and Tigo, but speeds rarely exceed 5 Mbps in my experience. Coverage disappears entirely in remote areas. Power outages frequently disrupt service. I maintain communication discipline—downloading maps and essential information before arrival and setting expectations with contacts about my limited availability during certain portions of my trip.
What should I pack that isn’t obvious?
Based on items I’ve desperately needed during my trips: a microfiber towel (many budget accommodations don’t provide them), a headlamp (power outages are frequent), a basic water filter or purification system, strong insect repellent with 40%+ DEET, a wide-brimmed hat, cooling towels for extreme heat, a power bank, extra passport photos for unexpected document requirements, and sufficient prescription medications (nothing should be assumed available locally).
How do I respect local customs as a visitor?
Modest dress is essential (covering shoulders and knees for everyone). Learn basic French greetings and take time with them—rushing straight to business is considered rude. Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight. Ask permission before photographing people, and never photograph military/government buildings. When entering someone’s home, remove shoes and accept offered refreshments as a sign of respect.
Is it possible to visit Lake Chad?
Visiting Lake Chad proper has become increasingly difficult due to security concerns related to Boko Haram activity in the region. In 2025, access requires special permits, armed escorts, and arrangement through specialized operators. A safer alternative I’ve enjoyed is visiting smaller lakes near N’Djamena, like Lake Fianga, which offers fishing villages and wetland landscapes without the security complexities of Lake Chad itself. Always check current security advisories, as conditions can change rapidly.
References
- UK Foreign Office Travel Advice for Chad – Current security assessments and entry requirements
- African Parks: Zakouma National Park – Official site for Chad’s premier wildlife destination
- Lonely Planet Chad Guide – Comprehensive overview of destinations and practical information
- CDC Travel Health Information for Chad – Detailed health recommendations and vaccination requirements
- UNESCO World Heritage: Lakes of Ounianga – Background on this spectacular natural heritage site
- Journey Beyond Travel: Chad Travel Guide – Detailed firsthand accounts of traveling in Chad
- Le Petit Futé Tchad (in French) – The most detailed guidebook covering Chad
- XE Currency Converter – Up-to-date exchange rates for CFA franc
- Project Expedition – Reputable tour options for Chad’s remote regions
- International SOS – Medical evacuation services covering Chad