Chad | The Heart of the Sahara

Current Weather in Chad

Temperature

34°C

Feels like 38°C

Conditions

Sunny

Humidity: 25%

Wind

15 km/h

Direction: NE

Best Time to Visit

November - February (Cool season)

March - May (Hot season)

June - September (Rainy season south)

October (Transition period)

Natural Wonders

Tibesti Mountains

The highest mountain range in the Sahara, featuring volcanic peaks over 3,400 meters. Home to the stunning Trou au Natron crater and ancient rock art dating back 8,000 years. The remote range offers some of Africa's most dramatic desert landscapes.

Lake Chad

Once Africa's fourth largest lake, this vital water source has shrunk dramatically but remains crucial for local communities and wildlife like hippos and crocodiles.

Wetland Ecosystem

Ennedi Plateau

UNESCO World Heritage Site with spectacular sandstone formations, natural arches, and prehistoric rock paintings in the northeastern Sahara.

Desert Landscape

Zakouma National Park

Southern park with the largest elephant population in Central Africa, plus lions, giraffes, and over 400 bird species in Sudanian savanna.

Wildlife Sanctuary

Travel Information

Key Destinations

N'Djamena

The capital on the Chari River featuring the National Museum, Grand Mosque, and vibrant Central Market.

Faya-Largeau

Northern oasis town and gateway to the Tibesti Mountains with palm groves and desert landscapes.

Moundou

Second largest city in the cotton-growing south with a more tropical climate than the arid north.

Bardai

Remote settlement in the Tibesti Mountains near the Emi Koussi volcano and rock art sites.

Practical Information

Visa Requirements

Visas required for all visitors. Apply at embassies in advance. Proof of yellow fever vaccination mandatory.

Currency

Central African CFA franc (XAF). US dollars accepted in major cities but not widely.

Languages

French and Arabic (official), plus over 120 indigenous languages including Sara and Chadian Arabic.

Electricity

220V, 50Hz. Type C (European 2-pin) and Type E plugs. Frequent power outages outside cities.

Health & Safety

Vaccinations

Yellow fever mandatory. Malaria prophylaxis essential. Consider typhoid, hepatitis A/B, meningitis vaccines.

Water

Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice in drinks outside major hotels.

Safety

Exercise extreme caution. Avoid travel to northern and eastern regions due to armed groups and landmines.

Emergency Numbers

Police: 17, Ambulance: 2251-1232, Fire: 18

Culture & History

Ancient Civilizations

Home to the Sao civilization (6th century BCE-16th century CE) around Lake Chad and later the Kanem-Bornu Empire.

1891 - French Colonization

Became part of French Equatorial Africa after French military conquest.

1960 - Independence

Gained independence from France on August 11, 1960 with François Tombalbaye as first President.

1979 - Civil War

Northern rebellion led to prolonged civil conflict and Libyan intervention.

1990 - Idriss Déby

Idriss Déby seized power and ruled until his death in 2021, maintaining stability amid regional conflicts.

2000s - Oil Production

Became an oil producer in 2003, though wealth has not significantly improved living standards.

Quick Facts

Capital: N'Djamena
Population: ~17.9 million (2023 est.)
Area: 1,284,000 km² (5th largest in Africa)
Highest Point: Emi Koussi (3,445 m)

Economy

Resources: Oil, uranium, gold, natron, livestock
GDP per capita: ~$700 (one of world's lowest)
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Challenges: Desertification, poverty, reliance on oil exports.

Culture

Music: Traditional griot music, modern Chadian pop blending Arabic and African styles
Cuisine: Millet, sorghum, meat (especially goat), okra, peanut sauces
Religion: 55% Muslim, 35% Christian, 10% indigenous beliefs
Sports: Football popular. Chad has competed in every Olympics since 1964.