Chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa that receives relatively little attention from tourists from other countries. Still, Chad is a unique place to travel for people who want to experience untouched nature and interact with genuine people from diverse cultures. Chad is a land of extremes and wonders, from the beautiful peaks of the Tibesti Mountains to the strange landscapes of the Ennedi Plateau and the wildlife-rich Zakouma National Park.The best places to visit in Chad are talked about in this book, along with what makes each one special and worth the trip.
1. N’Djamena: The Capital City
The capital and largest city of Chad, N’Djamena, is where most tourists begin their trip. N’Djamena is situated on the Chari River and has been influenced by Africa, the Arab world, and France as a former colony. Even though N’Djamena isn’t as grand as some other world cities, it’s a great place to learn about Chadian culture.
Key Points:
The National Museum of Chad is located near Place de la Nation and features exhibits on Chad’s historic past. One of the most famous fossils is “Toumaï,” which is thought to be from one of the earliest human ancestors.
Central Market (Marche Central)
is a bustling market where visitors can purchase a variety of goods, including crafts, fabrics, spices, and local specialities.
Chari River Views:
At sunset, you can relax by the river or take a boat ride to see the fishermen and people who live along the river.You should also check out N’Djamena’s nightlife and eat traditional foods like Jarret de boeuf (braised beef shank) or rice mush with peanut sauce while you’re there.
2. The national park of Zakouma
Zakouma National Park is one of the best examples of good protection in Africa. It may be the most beautiful nature area in Chad. Zakouma is in the southeast of Chad. It covers almost 3,000 square kilometres and is run with the help of African Parks.Poaching, especially of elephants, was a significant problem in Zakouma. But now, wildlife numbers have grown dramatically, making it one of the most exciting places in Central Africa to go on safari.
African elephants:
The park is home to over 500 elephants, which now roam safely in large groups.
Big cats, including lions:
leopards, and cheetahs, can be seen and are becoming increasingly common.
Birdwatching:
With over 370 species of birds, Zakouma is an ideal destination for birdwatching.The Kordofan giraffe is one of the rarest types of giraffe, and there are many of them here.During the dry season (November to April), when animals gather around water sources and the scenery is clear enough to see wildlife, that is the best time to go.
3. The desert paradise that is the Ennedi Plateau
The UNESCO World Heritage Site Ennedi Plateau is in the northeast of Chad. It is one of the strangest scenery in Africa. There are bridges, valleys, rock buildings, and secret springs in this huge sandstone mountain in the Sahara Desert.While Ennedi is often compared to Utah or Arizona in the United States, it is much more remote and pristine. It offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance for those who enjoy exploring.Elbow Arch is one of the most prominent natural rock arches in the world, about the same size as Utah’s famous Landscape Arch.Guelta d’Archei is a beautiful river where rare West African crocodiles still live and camels drink.
Rock Art:
The Ennedi’s walls are adorned with petroglyphs and drawings from thousands of years ago, depicting people, animals, and ancient ceremonies.Reaching Ennedi requires planning, a 4×4 vehicle, and often the assistance of a local guide. But the beauty and solitude are worth it for those who make the trip.
4. The Tibesti Mountains are located in the northernmost part of the Sahara Desert.
The Tibesti Mountains are a wide range of volcanoes in northern Chad that goes into Libya. This is one of the Sahara Desert’s most mysterious and inaccessible spots. The Toubou people have lived in this area for a long time and are renowned for their strength and extensive knowledge of the desert.
Important Sites:
With a height of 3,415 meters, Emi Koussi is the highest mountain in the Sahara. It is a former volcano with calderas and active lava flows.The biggest town in the Tibesti is Bardai, which is often used as a base for trips.
Petroglyphs in the Sahara:
The Tibesti, like the Ennedi, features a wealth of ancient rock art and historical ruins.Access is limited and typically reserved for experienced tourists, researchers, or trips with assistance from the local government, as the area is politically sensitive and remote.
5. Lake Chad: A Giant That Is Gone
Lake Chad was once the fourth-largest lake in Africa. Still, it has shrunk significantly in the last few decades due to drought, climate change, and agricultural practices that divert water for other purposes. Still, millions of people in Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger rely on it as a vital cultural and natural hub.
Things to See and Do:
Fishing Villages: Go to traditional towns that depend on the lake for their food and shelter.
Birds:
The lake and its surrounding marshes are crucial habitats for both local and migratory birds.
Cultural Interaction:
The Lake Chad region is home to numerous ethnic groups, including the Kanembu and Boudouma. It shows how people used to make a living and how they’ve changed to adapt to a changing climate.
Note:
Due to ongoing security concerns, travelling to the Lake Chad area should only be done with the most up-to-date information and careful planning.
6. Moundou:The Economic Hub of the South:
Moundou is Chad’s second-largest city. It is in the southern part of Logone Occidental. For cotton and the Gala brewery, which makes one of Chad’s most famous types of beer, it’s known as the economic and industrial centre of the country.
Cultural events:
The area hosts several events where people dress in traditional attire and perform music.
Loose Environment:
Moundou is located in a warm region with a greater abundance of plants compared to the dry north.
Local Markets:
The vibrant and colourful markets in southern Chad showcase how people live and conduct business.
7. Sarh: The City of Gardens
Sarh is one of Chad’s prettiest towns and was once the royal capital. It is on the Chari River. It moves more slowly than N’Djamena and is the primary route to the forest areas in the south.
Cultural Centres:
Sarh has a rich history of music and art, and there are places where you can experience traditional dance and song from the area.
River trips:
The Chari River offers beautiful views and allows you to rent boats.
Nearby Villages:
Visiting nearby rural areas provides a deeper understanding of how people in southern Chad live and work as farmers.
8. The area around Borkou and BET is in the middle of the Sahara.
The Borkou-Ennedi-Tibesti (BET) area encompasses a significant portion of Chad’s northern Saharan region. It’s a massive area with desert, salt flats, and a small oasis. Aside from Ennedi and Tibesti, which are unique places, the entire region offers a diverse and intriguing landscape to exploreOnly the most daring travellers should attempt to reach here, and they usually require special vehicles and guides.
Safety Tips for Travelling in Chad:
There are parts of Chad that are not politically stable, especially near the borders with Libya, Sudan, and the Central African Republic. Before you go on a trip, it’s essential to check your government’s travel warnings.
Visas:
Most tourists need a visa to visit Chad. You can get one at a port or sometimes online.English and French are the national languages. People who live in rural places may speak Sara, Kanembu, or Toubou more often.
Money:
The Central African CFA franc (XAF) is the legal money. You can’t use credit cards much, so bring cash.In southern Chad, the weather is warm, while in the north, it’s dry. The dry season, from October to April, is the best time to go.
Last Thoughts
Chad is a place that thrills the daring and the curious. It’s not a place for high-end tourists or those who expect their facilities to be perfect. Still, it does offer something that’s becoming increasingly rare: pristine scenery, authentic cultural experiences, and genuine adventure. People interested in wildlife, the desert, history, or anthropology will appreciate Chad’s expertise. It’s raw, honest, and unique.
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