Things to Do in Chad

About Chad

The Sahara meets Lake Chad in a country where nomadic herders still follow routes their ancestors walked centuries ago. Chad doesn't fit easy categories. In N'Djamena's markets, you'll hear six languages and a dozen dialects while grilled fish competes with desert air for your attention. Time moves differently here. The Chari River cuts through a landscape that shifts between sand and water, and fishermen work the lake at dawn like they've done for generations. This is raw Africa—no polish, no pretense. Hospitality matters here. Tradition and survival are linked in ways visitors from stable countries won't immediately grasp, and every sunset offers colors you can't reproduce on a screen. Chad changes people. The northern mountains hide ancient rock art that predates most civilizations, and spending time here gives you a sense of scale most places can't match.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Domestic flights connect major cities, but road travel requires 4WD vehicles and local drivers familiar with seasonal conditions. Bush taxis operate between towns but expect long delays and crowded conditions. Always carry extra fuel, water, and spare parts for remote areas.

Money: The Central African CFA franc (XAF) is the official currency. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside luxury hotels in N'Djamena. Carry cash in small denominations and exchange money at banks or authorized dealers. French euros exchange more favorably than US dollars.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and during Ramadan. Always ask permission before photographing people, and respect Islamic customs during prayer times. Greet elders first and use your right hand for eating and handshakes. Remove shoes when entering homes.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water and avoid ice. Choose freshly cooked, hot meals from busy local restaurants. Grilled meat and fish are generally safe options. Try traditional dishes like boule (millet porridge) and capitaine fish from Lake Chad at recommended establishments.

When to Visit

Chad's climate divides into distinct wet and dry seasons, dramatically affecting travel conditions and costs. The optimal visiting period spans November through February, when temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F) and humidity drops significantly. December and January offer the most comfortable conditions with cool mornings and warm afternoons, though accommodation prices peak 30-40% above off-season rates. March through May marks the hot dry season, with temperatures soaring to 45°C (113°F) in the north, making travel challenging but reducing costs by 25%. The rainy season (June-October) brings torrential downpours, flooding roads and making remote areas inaccessible, but also transforms landscapes into green oases. Temperatures moderate to 25-35°C (77-95°F) with 80-90% humidity. Budget travelers benefit from 40-50% lower accommodation rates during this period. Key cultural events include Eid celebrations (dates vary annually), the Gerewol festival (September-October) showing Wodaabe nomad traditions, and Independence Day (August 11). Photographers favor late dry season (March-April) for dramatic desert contrasts, while wildlife ensoiasts should visit national parks during dry months when animals congregate around water sources.