Things to Do in Chad in February

February Weather in Chad

35°C (95°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

5mm (0.2 inches) Rainfall

25% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Ideal dry season weather with virtually no rainfall - perfect for long overland journeys to remote areas like Tibesti Mountains and Ennedi Massif
Cool morning temperatures 18°C (64°F) make early morning wildlife viewing at Zakouma National Park comfortable before heat sets in
Clear skies provide exceptional visibility for photography and stargazing in the Sahara - February has the least atmospheric dust
Harmattan winds have calmed compared to December-January, reducing dust storms that can disrupt flights and desert expeditions

Considerations

Extreme daytime heat 35°C (95°F) makes midday activities uncomfortable - most outdoor exploration must happen before 10am or after 4pm
Very low humidity 25% combined with high UV index 10 causes rapid dehydration and sunburn even with short exposure
Peak tourist season means limited accommodation in N'Djamena fills quickly, and 4WD vehicle rentals command premium prices

Best Activities in February

Zakouma National Park Wildlife Safaris

February marks peak wildlife viewing season as animals concentrate around permanent water sources during dry season. Morning game drives (6am-10am) offer comfortable temperatures and highest animal activity. Elephant herds are most predictable, and bird migration creates spectacular viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book park permits and accommodations 4-6 weeks ahead through Chad National Tourism Office. Safari packages typically range $200-400 per day including guide, vehicle, and park fees. Ensure operators provide early morning departure times to avoid heat.

Sahara Desert Expeditions

Cool nights and stable weather patterns make February ideal for multi-day desert camping. Tibesti Mountains and Ennedi rock formations are accessible via 4WD expeditions. Clear skies offer unparalleled stargazing and photography opportunities without dust interference.

Booking Tip: Multi-day desert expeditions cost $150-300 per person per day. Book through licensed operators with satellite communication equipment. Trips require 2-week advance booking for permit processing and supply coordination.

Lake Chad Traditional Fishing Villages

February's low water levels concentrate fish populations, making it peak fishing season for local communities. Cultural exchanges with Buduma fishermen are most authentic during this working season. Cooler mornings allow comfortable boat trips across shallow waters.

Booking Tip: Day trips to fishing villages cost $80-150 including boat transport and guide. Book through N'Djamena cultural centers 1-2 weeks ahead. Morning departures (7am) essential to avoid afternoon heat reflection off water.

N'Djamena Cultural Markets and Architecture Tours

February's dry weather allows comfortable walking tours of Grand Marché and colonial architecture. Early morning market visits (7am-9am) showcase peak activity before heat forces afternoon closures. Traditional crafts and fabrics are most abundant during dry season trade period.

Booking Tip: Guided walking tours cost $30-60 per half-day. Independent exploration works well with early starts. Markets close 11am-4pm during hottest hours. Licensed cultural guides available through major hotels.

Chari River Boat Excursions

Low water levels reveal hippo pools and sandbar wildlife viewing opportunities impossible during wet season. February offers stable river conditions for traditional pirogue trips and hippo observation from safe distances. Bird life peaks along exposed mudflats.

Booking Tip: River excursions range $50-120 per day including traditional boat and local guide. Book through riverside communities or N'Djamena tour operators. Early morning or late afternoon departures required for comfort and wildlife activity.

February Events & Festivals

Late February

Harmattan Season Conclusion

Late February marks the traditional end of Harmattan winds, celebrated in rural communities with agricultural preparation ceremonies. Local communities perform traditional dances and prepare fields for upcoming planting season.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and zinc stick - UV index reaches 10 and reflection off sand/water intensifies exposure

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts - essential for UV protection during midday heat despite 35°C (95°F) temperatures

Insulated water bottles holding 3+ liters - dehydration occurs rapidly in 25% humidity conditions

Wide-brimmed hat with neck protection - direct sun exposure dangerous for even short periods

Warm sleeping gear rated to 15°C (59°F) - desert nights drop dramatically from daytime highs

Electrolyte powder packets - excessive sweating depletes minerals quickly in dry heat

Dust-proof bags for electronics - fine Saharan sand penetrates standard luggage

Polarized sunglasses - essential for glare reduction off sand and water surfaces

Closed-toe hiking boots - protects feet from hot sand and thorny vegetation

Headlamp with red light setting - preserves night vision for stargazing and camp navigation

Insider Knowledge

Most Chadians retreat indoors 11am-4pm during peak heat - schedule meetings and cultural activities for early morning or evening

Fuel up vehicle tanks at every opportunity - remote area gas stations often run dry during peak tourist season

Carry French CFA francs in small bills - credit cards rarely accepted outside N'Djamena luxury hotels

Book return flights with 2-day buffer - February dust storms, while rare, can still delay departures unexpectedly

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating water needs - tourists frequently suffer dehydration requiring medical attention in 25% humidity

Planning midday outdoor activities - heat exhaustion risk peaks 11am-4pm when temperatures exceed 32°C (90°F)

Bringing insufficient cash - ATMs unreliable outside N'Djamena and electronic payments extremely limited