Chad - When to Visit

When to Chad

Climate guide & best times to travel

Chad experiences one of the most extreme climates in Africa, characterized by three distinct climate zones from north to south. The northern Saharan region is extremely hot and arid year-round, the central Sahelian belt has a semi-arid climate with a brief rainy season, and the southern Sudanian zone receives more rainfall between June and September. The country experiences two main seasons: a hot dry season from November to May with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, and a wet season from June to October when the African monsoon brings most of the annual rainfall to the south and center. Temperatures vary dramatically between day and night, especially in the desert regions, and the harmattan winds from the Sahara bring dust and extremely dry conditions from November to March. The capital N'Djamena experiences scorching heat from March to May before the rains arrive, with April and May being particularly oppressive. The cooler dry season from November to February offers the most comfortable conditions for travel, though even winter months see daytime temperatures in the low to mid-30s°C in most regions.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
Not applicable - Chad is landlocked with no coastal areas, though Lake Chad offers some water-based activities best visited November to February during cooler, dry conditions.
Cultural Exploration
November to February offers the most comfortable weather for visiting markets, villages, and cultural sites, with cooler temperatures and clear skies ideal for exploring N'Djamena and regional towns.
Adventure & Hiking
November to February is optimal for trekking in the Tibesti Mountains and Saharan adventures, with more bearable temperatures and no rainfall making desert travel safer and more comfortable.
Budget Travel
June to September during the rainy season sees fewer tourists and potentially lower prices, though travel can be challenging with muddy roads and limited accessibility to remote areas.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is one of the most pleasant months to visit Chad, with relatively cooler temperatures and dry conditions throughout the country. The harmattan winds bring dusty skies but comfortable daytime warmth. This is peak season for desert exploration and wildlife viewing in travel to Zakouma National Park.

32°C (90°F) High
15°C (59°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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February

February continues the pleasant dry season with warm days and cool nights, though temperatures begin rising toward month's end. Dust from harmattan winds remains common but visibility is generally good. Excellent conditions persist for all outdoor activities and travel across the country.

35°C (95°F) High
18°C (64°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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March

March marks the beginning of the intensely hot season as temperatures climb significantly across Chad. The harmattan winds start to diminish but heat becomes increasingly oppressive, especially in the north and center. Travel remains feasible but requires careful planning and heat precautions.

39°C (102°F) High
22°C (72°F) Low
1mm (0in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

April is one of the hottest and most challenging months in Chad, with scorching temperatures often exceeding 40°C in many areas. The heat is dry and relentless before the rains arrive. This is generally not recommended for tourism unless absolutely necessary, with minimal visitor activity.

42°C (108°F) High
26°C (79°F) Low
5mm (0.2in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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May

May experiences peak heat with temperatures at their annual maximum, making it the most uncomfortable month for travel. Occasional pre-monsoon storms may occur in the south, bringing brief relief but also humidity. Tourism is at its lowest, and outdoor activities are extremely challenging.

43°C (109°F) High
28°C (82°F) Low
25mm (1in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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June

June marks the beginning of the rainy season in southern Chad as the monsoon arrives, bringing welcome relief from the extreme heat. Temperatures remain high but humidity increases significantly. Roads in the south begin to deteriorate, affecting travel accessibility.

40°C (104°F) High
26°C (79°F) Low
55mm (2.2in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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July

July sees the rainy season in full swing across southern and central Chad, with regular afternoon thunderstorms and occasional heavy downpours. While temperatures moderate slightly, high humidity makes conditions feel oppressive. Many rural roads become impassable, limiting travel options significantly.

37°C (99°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
120mm (4.7in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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August

August typically receives the highest rainfall of the year in southern Chad, with frequent storms and flooding common in low-lying areas. The landscape transforms to green, but travel infrastructure suffers with many roads washed out. Northern regions remain largely dry while the south experiences monsoon conditions.

35°C (95°F) High
23°C (73°F) Low
145mm (5.7in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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September

September continues the wet season though rainfall begins to taper off toward month's end. Temperatures remain moderate with persistent humidity throughout the south. Travel conditions remain challenging but start improving as the rains decrease, and vegetation is at its most lush.

36°C (97°F) High
23°C (73°F) Low
85mm (3.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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October

October marks the transition from wet to dry season, with rainfall diminishing significantly and roads beginning to dry out. Temperatures remain warm but humidity decreases, making conditions more comfortable. This shoulder month sees improving travel conditions as the country becomes more accessible again.

38°C (100°F) High
23°C (73°F) Low
25mm (1in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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November

November ushers in the dry season with excellent weather conditions across Chad. Temperatures are warm but manageable, skies clear, and roads fully accessible. This is one of the best months for visiting, with comfortable conditions for wildlife viewing, cultural tours, and desert expeditions.

36°C (97°F) High
19°C (66°F) Low
1mm (0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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December

December offers ideal travel conditions with pleasant temperatures, dry weather, and clear skies throughout Chad. Cool nights and warm days make this perfect for all activities. The harmattan winds begin but conditions remain excellent for tourism, making this a peak travel month.

33°C (91°F) High
16°C (61°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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Activities in Chad