Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for Discovering Chad

Day 1: Arrival in N’Djamena

Start in the capital, N’Djamena. This is Chad’s largest city, known for its blend of modern and traditional life. Take it slow today and recover from your travels.

After checking into your hotel, explore Avenue Charles de Gaulle. You’ll find markets, local restaurants, and coffee shops all within walking distance. Get your first taste of Chadian street food, such as grilled meat skewers or cassava-based dishes. For a quiet break, head to Place de la Nation, a peaceful park right in the city center.

If you’re in the mood for history, N’Djamena National Museum is a good stop. It introduces you to Chad’s prehistoric culture, ancient artifacts, and more.

Day 2: N’Gueli Market and Musee National

Start your day by visiting the bustling N’Gueli Market. This is a great chance to see local life up close. Vendors sell everything from fruits and vegetables to textiles and crafts. It’s also a fantastic place to grab breakfast on the go.

In the afternoon, head to the country’s most important museum, Musee National. It houses exhibits covering the rich history and culture of Chad, including ancient sarcophagi and traditional Chadian costumes. It doesn’t take long to explore but is well worth seeing.

In the evening, catch a sunset along the Chari River. You can find a spot along the riverbank, or ask around for a quiet local bar.

Day 3: Am Timan

Take a short flight to Am Timan, a city in southeastern Chad. The flight takes around 2 hours. This region has a more laid-back rural charm and is home to stunning landscapes.

Once you’ve settled in, spend the rest of the day exploring local life. Visit Am Timan’s central market if you’re in the mood for handmade crafts. Otherwise, head out for a walk along the nearby Salamat River and enjoy the peace of the surroundings.

Try to arrange a visit to one of the local villages, where you can learn about traditional farming techniques and get a closer look at the daily lives of the people here. Ask your guesthouse for recommendations.

Day 4: Zakouma National Park

Today’s focus is one of the best national parks in Central Africa: Zakouma National Park. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but it’s an incredible spot for a safari experience. Start early and head out for a game drive. You’ll see buffalo, elephants, giraffes, and, if you’re lucky, maybe lions.

The park’s various waterholes attract animals throughout the day, so take some time to just sit and observe. The dry season, December to May, is the best time to visit.

If you’re into bird watching, Zakouma is also home to hundreds of bird species. Guided walks are available, but feel free to roam solo if you have a solid grasp of the trails.

Day 5: Ennedi Plateau

Prepare for a change in scenery as you journey to the Ennedi Plateau in the north. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was sculpted by wind over millions of years, creating surreal landscapes. Expect towering sandstone arches, canyons, and giant rock formations.

Optional trips can be arranged from Fada, the nearest town. Once you’ve arrived, don’t miss the Aloba Arch. It’s close to 400 feet tall and one of the most impressive desert arches in the world.

If you have the energy, visit some of the rock art in the area. These ancient drawings depict camels, cows, and hunting scenes, some of which are thousands of years old. Most travelers camp here for the night and enjoy the starlit skies.

Day 6: Lakes of Ounianga

Make your way to the Lakes of Ounianga, another UNESCO-listed site located in the Sahara Desert. Surprisingly, this region boasts over a dozen lakes in shades of blue, green, and red. It’s a surreal mix of desert dunes and water bodies.

The most impressive lakes to visit are Yoan and Teli, where you can take in the stunning landscape or swim (if it’s warm enough). For something more relaxed, just sit by the shore and enjoy the peaceful ambience.

Spend the night at a local guesthouse in a nearby town like Faya-Largeau. Expect a quieter experience as tourism remains relatively undeveloped in this desert region.

Day 7: Return to N’Djamena

Take a flight back to N’Djamena. Use this last day to wrap up your journey with any remaining sights you wish to see or revisit. If there’s time, check out the Grand Mosque for beautiful Islamic architecture, or stop by the central market for last-minute souvenirs.

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant along Avenue Charles de Gaulle. Many places serve traditional dishes like mouffo (millet-based bread) or visitor favorites like goat stew.