Chad Tours, 10 Things To Do, Holiday Activities

The republic of Chad is among the landlocked countries on the African continent and it is found in the north central part Africa. it is bordered by Niger in the West, Nigeria in the Southwest, Central African republic in the South, Sudan to the east and Libya in the North. This north Central African country will surely reward you with countless memories at the end of you Safari there. it has a very beautiful landscape and the climate will enable you to visit some of it’s amazing tourist sites.

Below we have highlighted some of the top things to do and places to visit while on holiday in Chad

  1. The Chad National Museum

Also referred to as the musee national N’Djamena, this Museum will offer you a good insight of the culture and history of the republic of Chad. There is a fascinating display of folk art, artifacts as well as a collection of items that represent the culture and customs of the local people. In addition some of the most outstanding attractions within this Museum as testified by its visitors is a modern sculpture a local tribesmen together with the skull of Toumai.

  1. Visit Lake Chad – an inland Sea

To better understand the splendor of Lake Chad one of Africa’s largest fresh water lakes, you have to first visit it to surely appreciate it. Previously, this lake was a grand center for the profitable salt trade in Africa, and today can best be visited from the month of August to December as the water levels are high with different animals such as hippos and crocodiles being easily viewed. Unfortunately, because of increase human encroachment for agriculture activity and climatic changes, Lake Chad is feared to have reduced in size over the past twenty five (25) years.

  1. Zakouma National Park

Zakouma National Park is located in the southern region of the Sahara desert and it forms part of the larger Sudano Sahelian Ecosystem, this park whose terrain is comprised of a rainforest is habitant to a great diversity of animals including hartebeests, hyenas, African elephants, Tiang, cheetahs, Buffaloes, leopards and the roan antelope amongst many others. There are over three hundred and seventy different types of birds recorded in this park which covers an area of 305,000 hectares so during the different tourist activities like bird watching and game drives be assured of having a thrilling experience.

  1. Watch the Camel Races

During your holiday in Chad, visit the vicious Toubou tribe who live in the Tibesti Mountains where you will get an opportunity to see one of the world’s best came races. This charming Saharan region comprises f Emi Koussi is the highest peak in the country and stands at a height of 3,445 meters, oases that are surrounded by palm trees, hot springs and beautiful ancient rock art.

  1. Visit the Lakes of Ounianga

There are eighteen (18) different lakes that are interconnected found within the Sahara Desert which form the Ounianga lakes. Because of the varied chemical composition in the alkaline soils, microorganisms as well as the sand, the color of these lakes keep varying from red to blue to green which makes them extremely very attractive to look at. it is believed that these lakes have survived the hash dry extremely conditions of the desert for several thousands of years which makes them truly a miracle of mother Nature. Because of their splendor and uniqueness, in 2012 UNESCO declared the site a wild heritage site.

  1. Tibesti Mountains

The Tibesti Mountains located on the northern border of Chad are a range of volcanic mountains that are no longer active. This mountain range has the highest peaks in the whole of the Sahara and a large number of holidaymakers each year visit this site to set out on adventurous trips to hike to the top of the jagged peaks. the top of the mountains can only be reached by experienced climbers, however there are a number of other activities that other holidaymakers can engage in around these mountains such as visiting the hot springs, viewing the very old rock paintings as well as watching the exciting Camel races.

  1. Unwind at Douguia Tourist Center

Located on the banks of Chari River, the Douguia tourist center has become a very popular tourist hotspot. There are thrilling boat tours organized from here that take tourists from here in traditional canoes so as to explore the area, see hippos, watch the numerous bird species and see the local people go about their day to day lives.

  1. Explore the Ennedi Region

In the northeastern part of the country is a generally flat landscape that is barely occupied by anything except scorpions and smaller insects and this is known as the energy desert unique about this region is that there are several spectacular rocks that were naturally sculpted which are visited by a large number of tourists who come to personally witness the breathtaking walk-off at crafted by mother Nature the uneven rocks and the stone arches in addition to many natural ships have a what did this place to be one of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.

  1. Check out the ancient City of Abeche

Abeche previously served as the capital of the influential Ouadai sultanate and up to date its ancient charm has been well preserved. This very old city comprises of the sultan’s beautiful palace, dynastic tombs and mosques which are encircled by a protective wall. the connecting network of streets is normally traversed by several nomadic local people coming from the nearby desert areas.

  1. Walk to Guelta d’Archei

The Guelta d’Archei is a desert water hole that has been used for a very long time and it is significant for the survival of the different wildlife species living in that area. It is found on the renowned Ennedi Plateau in the northeastern part of the country. Today there is a small number of Nile crocodiles still living here and it’s alleged to be the very last crocodile population in the entire Sahara desert.

Frequently asked Questions on the Republic of Chad

Below we have come up with a couple of frequently asked questions on Rwanda which we have professionally answered and we are sure they will help you better understand the destination and help you best prepare for your visit to Chad.

What is the Best Time to Visit Chad?

The best time to visit the Republic of Chad is from December to April. During this time of the year, most parts of the country such as the central and southern parts are experiencing the dry season with hardly any rainfall. In addition most of the roads to the national parks are passable and the safari camps such as the lavish Tinga which close in the rainy season re-open.  March and May are the hottest months of the year.

The wet season on the other hand, come with large volumes of rain which make the dirty rural roads very muddy and slippery making it extremely hard to access the remote game parks. A number of accommodations like Salamat Camp in Zakouma National Park close operations during this time of the year. This is not a recommended time for safaris in Chad.

Do I need a visa to go to the Republic of Chad?

Whether you need a Visa or not depends on the citizenship of your passport. every person will need to have a passport with two (2) blank pages as well as valid for at least six (6) months from the end of your travels in the country. Failure for your passport to fulfill those requirements may lead to your denial from obtaining a visa. Another important thing that you should remember while organizing a visit to the republic of Chad is that all persons are required to get a registration stamp after presenting themselves to the national police and this should be done not before three (3) days from the time of arrival in Chad.

Do I need travel insurance when going to Chad?

When visiting Chad, you are highly advised to get travel insurance because medical facilities are not readily available and are not of very good standard especially in the rural parts of the country. You are highly advised to obtain a comprehensive travel insurance preferably one covering you medically and offers evacuation in cases of emergency; and also covers you in the various activities you will be engaging in like hiking. Before you finally choose the insurance company you use, please carefully read through the different insurance packages and what they include.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Chad?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Chad. Ensure that all tap water to be consumed for drinking is filtered and well boiled or treated. You can also consume Bottled water however make sure that the bottle cap seal still intact at the time of being served. When brushing your teeth, you are highly advised to always use bottled water or boiled water.

What vaccines do I need when visiting Chad?

according to the World Health Organization (WHO) there are a number of Vaccines recommend for all persons visiting the Chad among which are: Hepatitis B, diarrhea, tetanus, tuberculosis and hepatitis E, and all visitors above eight (8) months of age are mandated to get the yellow fever vaccine and have a yellow fever certificate as proof of receiving this shot and this they will present to the immigrations officer on arrival.  In the dry season, from November to May, Meningococcal meningitis is prevalent in the savanna areas of the country, so you are advised to obtain this vaccination.

Please keep in mind that across the Republic of Chad, HIV/AIDS is prevalent so enjoy your holiday here carefully. The rabies vaccine is recommended for persons who are likely to get in contact with animals while on holiday in Chad.

Is it safe to swim in the fresh waters of Chad?

No, it is not safe to swim or paddle in the fresh water of Chad as there is bilharzia (schistosomiasis)

What is the official language spoken in Chad?

The official languages of Chad are French and Modern Standard Arabic. With a population of about 13.67 million Chad, the people of this country have been influenced by several indigenous people including the French colonists and Muslim empire. The country has about one hundred and twenty (120) indigenous languages and these are divided into three major categories including Nilo-Saharan, Afro-Asiatic and Niger-Congo.

What is the local currency for Chad?

The local currency for the republic of Chad is the Central African franc or the CFA franc which is in both notes and coins. The banknote bills are in denominations of 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500, while the coins are in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1.

Foreign currencies such as the Euros and US Dollars can easily be exchanged against the local franc; this however may not apply to other foreign currencies. Exchange of foreign currency can be done at major banks. The banks operate from Monday to Saturday from 0700 to 1300 while on Friday from 0700 to 1030.

Are credit cards used in Chad?

Credit cards are not commonly used in the republic of Chad and it’s just a few big hotels in the major cities like N’Djamena that accept the MasterCard, Visa, and Diners Clubs. Another important thing to note is that it may be very hard to get cash advances using your credit cards.

What is the electricity current of the republic of Chad?

The republic of Chad runs on a voltage of 220V to 240V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz. the standard type of sockets and power plugs used in the country are the type D, F and E.  You are however encouraged advised to carry your personal electrical adaptors to enable you use your personal electrical gadgets such as laptops. Gadgets like hair dryers and curling irons may require you to have a voltage converter to avoid instances of blowing them up.

Can I do my laundry while in the Chad?

You will be able to access laundry services at almost all the safari lodges and hotels within Chad, however majorities of these facilities offer the service at a small service, so you are advised to inquire with the reception or the concierge desk about the fee.

Useful Tip: All holidaymakers are advised not to put out their delicate clothing for laundry as some properties hand-wash the laundry.

Why take a Tour in Chad?

High-priced, distant, and at times dangerous away from capital, Chad may be an extremely challenging place to go to; however through putting money in the effort as well as taking safety measures, travelers can get an unforgettable tourism experience. Found in the center of Africa, Chad is renowned for its huge areas of savanna scattered with traditional villages. The capital city of N’Djamena as well as the largest city, is among the sole urban places within a country even now dominated by a non-urban lifestyle. The attractive Tibesti Mountains together with Lake Chad are the most well known natural landmarks of Chad. Because of climatic change plus population pressurchad photoe, the lake today covers only 5% of its initial size, and must be on each adventure traveler’s list of places to visit in Chad.

What to see on a Tour in Chad?

Abéché

This is a former capital of the strong Ouadaï sultanate, and encompassed by desert, this amazing town has maintained most of its oriental attraction, with fascinating mosques, stoned narrow streets as well as ancient markets.

Camel racing

Get a glimpse of a number of of the very-best camel in the world racing within the Tibesti Mountains,which are home of the ferocious Toubou tribe. The residents are distantly related to the tribe of the Tuareg found in Western Sahara. This amazing area of chasms plus crags has hardly ever been visited by non-Muslims and stays closed to all travelers, therefore it is best observed from a distance. It isn’t difficult to find since it has the Emi Koussi, a very high peak at 3,414m above sea level.

Lake Chad

Lake Chad should be visited, not simply because it used to be the centre of profitable salt trade in Africa and among the biggest freshwater lakes on the planet, but as well because you could be running out of the opportunity to see it as the Lake is shrinking. The best time to see the lake is from August up to December, as the water level is maximum and the periodic hippos or crocodiles can be seen moving by.

N’Djaména

This is the capital city of Chad and it is slowly recovering its pre-war status as one of the liveliest cities in Central Africa. There are Bullet holes within the buildings that act as a reminder of the old troubled past, however the atmosphere is progressively encouraging.

National Museum

The museum has coN’Djamenallections from the Sarh culture going back to the 9th century. You will find a unique difference between the parts of town inhabited by Arab -it is extremely quiet at night and the section where the southerners stay which is lively and packed with bars.

Sip a cold beer

Taste Moundou’s beer which is among the finest in the country from the Gala Brewery

Explore through the historic quarter of N’Djaména

Which has a daily vibrant market, and is a interesting and a great place to buy some jewelry plus colorful Chadian rugs.

Zakouma National Park

Zakouma National Park is situated on an huge plain, and has the Bahr Salamat together with its tributaries flowing through it from north to south. The Chad government together with the EU have re-stocked and renovated this park because it was ravaged by poachers and the civil war. Today Visitors can see large herds of elephants, lions plus giraffes.

Which Tour Company or Tour Operator?

Chad is viewed as a wonderful tourist getaway destinations in Central Africa and for some time has been receiving countless guests journeying from different nations. The good news is that Chad has an abundance of tour operators plus firms that organize interesting tours to the different tourist destinations in the country. You can actually refer to them as for assistance in organizing your holiday in Chad.

Where to Stay On a Chad Tour?

There are many nice hotels within N’Djaména, however accommodation in other places is very restricted. There are a number of small hotels in Sarh – a modern day hotel complex within Zakouma National Park, plus other little hunting hotels within the southwest. It is recommended to make reservations earlier.

When to Go on a Tour in Chad?

The dry season from September up to June is the most recommended time to travel to the cities, although it is less likely that tourists are going to be doing a lot of that in the time to come. Rebel activity as well increases in that time; therefore the time from June to August could be the safest to visit, in case a little bit more inconvenient.

Are Chad’s people Friendly?

The peoLake-Chadple of Chad are extremely warm and welcoming and the state language of Chad is French

What is the Weather like in Chad?

In Chad, the yearly average rainfall is 322 mm. This figure is simply an estimate as the amount of rainfall differs greatly from place to place because of repeated droughts. Chad is generally an inland nation that comprises of 3 main agro-climate areas with a vast range of distribution of natural resources like biomass, water and land. These are briefly described below:

The Saharan zone having rainfall that is below 300 mm per year at the border with the desert in the northern area as the rainfall isn’t constant within this zone. It covers approximately 47 % of the total country’s expanse.

The sahelian zone in which rainfall between 300mm and 600 mm per year is experienced is in the central part of the country. The zone covers approximately 28 % of the country’s expanse.

The Sudanese zone that is characterized by rainfall that is over 600 mm per year (occasionally 1, 200 mm within the southern area). This zone stretches over 25% of the country’s expanse.

The highest volume of rainfall is received in July or August. And there are two main seasons the sahelian and the Sudanese zones:

  • The rainy season starting in June up to September;
  • The dry season starts in October up to May.

The evapo-transpiration covers 3, 000mm in a number of areas. The average temperatures each temperatures differing each and every month. The appropriate values are 28°C – 42°C throughout the day and 14°C at night. Within the northern part of the country, the temps differ from 13°C – 29°C in the month of January and then 25°C to 44°C in the month May. Within the south, the temps differ from 15°C to 34°C in January from 23°C to 35°C in the month

How to spend your Holiday in Chad

Although Chad is s landlocked country, it has some charming tourist attractions worth visiting. It has a beautiful yet varying landscape comprised of huge mountains, plateaus, rolling hills plus verdant valleys. The natural beautiful resources have made Chad a country worth visiting. The list below clearly highlights some of the top attractions you can visit while on your holiday in Chad.

N’Djamena

N’Djamena is the capital of Chad which is gradually being restored to its grandeur following several years of internal wars that left several building plus streets greatly damaged. The city holds a daily market which is quite vibrant and colorful in which visitors can always pick a souvenir to remind them of their holiday. The National Museum in this city houses an assortment of items that date back to the 9th Century. And for people who enjoy having fun, the wonderful nightlife of N’Djamena is worth trying out.

Zakouma National Park

The Zakouma National park is intersected by river Bahr Salamat and some of its attributes. The park was established back in 1963, making it the first park in the country. Several years ago the number of wild animals greatly declined due to poaching and wars, but the restoration project which was started in 1989 has seen the numbers grow again and today the park holds over 40 different species of the animals among which are lions, giraffes and most of all is that it holds the largest population of elephants in the whole world. Furthermore there are well serviced accommodation facilities to cater for tourists. Zakouma is a place worth visiting!

Museums in Chad

Because of the rich cultural and historic background of Chad, most of its heritage and significant items are well kept in the different museums found in different parts of the country. Some of the prominent museums include: the National Museum found in N’Djamena in which are masks, weapons and musical instruments, Kotoko Museum with pottery, architectural items and historic instruments from the Kotoko plus the Sao, and the Museum of Abeche.

Faya

Faya is among the biggest oasis towns in the whole world and is situated in the heart of the vast Sahara Desert just north of the capital N’Djamena. The town has a small airport so it can be accessed by plane. It is a desert town worth visiting.

Lake Chad

More than 18 million people have survived on the water from Lake Chad, not only within Chad but also the neighboring states.  The lake is among the largest fresh water lakes in the whole world; although sadly the increasing human demand and climatic changes have seen its levels and size reduce.  The water levels are highest between August and December and it is highly recommended that you visit during this time to catch sight of crocodiles, hippopotami and other types of wild animals and not to forget the numerous migrating birds in the skies.

Nightlife

Chad is a very lively country not only during the day but in the nights too. The people enjoying having fun and being entertained! There are several happening spots particularly in the capital where you will find several nightclubs, with several bars and open air dancing platforms. In the non-Muslim regions, Pari matches are held almost every Saturday plus Sunday.