Day 1: Arrive in N’Djamena
Welcome to Chad! You’ll land in N’Djamena, the capital. Take this day to get settled and adjust after your flight. Wander the city and visit the Central Market to get a feel for daily life. Grab some Chadian street food like brochettes (grilled meat skewers) or boule (millet balls).
In the afternoon, head to the National Museum, where you can learn about Chad’s impressive history and culture. Relax in the evening and prepare for the adventure ahead!
Day 2: Discover N’Djamena
Dive deeper into N’Djamena today. Start with the Grande Mosquée, one of the most beautiful mosques in the city. Make sure to be respectful of local customs.
In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Chari River. It’s a peaceful spot, and you can often spot locals fishing. Later, enjoy a traditional Chadian meal at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Lake Chad
It’s time to leave the city and visit Lake Chad. This massive freshwater lake is an important ecosystem for the region and provides water for millions. You’ll spend the day exploring the area.
Spend some time visiting local fishing villages, where you can learn about their way of life. Be sure to talk with locals and discover more about how they live off the lake’s resources.
Day 4: Abeche
Today, it’s off to Abeche, one of Chad’s oldest towns. The place has a rich Islamic heritage, and you’ll notice a lot of cultural influences from the nearby Sudanese and Arab communities.
Take time to explore the Old Quarter and the colorful market. It’s a great place to shop for handicrafts and chat with friendly locals. In the evening, try a local tea shop for relaxing downtime.
Day 5: Ennedi Plateau
Today, you’ll explore the Ennedi Plateau. This place is a hidden gem in the Sahara Desert, famous for its jaw-dropping rock formations and ancient petroglyphs. It’s one of Chad’s most striking off-the-beaten-path locations.
Spend time driving through the desert, marveling at the natural beauty. Stop by the rock arches, and take plenty of photos of this otherworldly landscape.
Day 6: Guelta d’Archei
A short drive from Ennedi takes you to Guelta d’Archei. This is one of the few places in the world where you can spot desert-dwelling crocodiles. Yes, crocodiles in the desert!
The guelta is a breathtaking oasis surrounded by cliffs, and it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience to hike through such a unique setting. Spend the night camping under the stars.
Day 7: Zakouma National Park
It’s time to experience Chad’s wildlife scene! Head to Zakouma National Park, one of Africa’s most underrated wildlife reserves. You can spot elephants, lions, and many different bird species here.
Join a guided safari tour, and don’t forget your camera! After the excitement of the safari, unwind with a relaxing evening in your lodge. It’s a perfect day to reflect on the beauty of nature.
Day 8: Zakouma National Park (Continued)
Spend another day in Zakouma to fully immerse yourself in its natural wonders. Take an early morning game drive to catch the animals during their most active periods.
In the afternoon, take a break for personal exploration; wander the edges of the park or take a boat trip on the Bahr Salamat river. Enjoy more animal sightings and peaceful landscapes.
Day 9: Return to N’Djamena
Start your return journey to N’Djamena. The drive offers plenty of scenic landscapes, from desert plains to small villages. Keep an eye out for any last-minute photo opportunities on the road.
Once back in the capital, enjoy a slow evening. Maybe take one final walk around town, grabbing dinner and enjoying the warm evening breeze.
Day 10: Departure
It’s your last day in Chad! Before your flight, you can pick up last-minute souvenirs at the Central Market or grab one more coffee at a local café. Say goodbye to this incredible country with memories of its culture, landscape, and people.
Safe travels home!
Leave a reply