Things to see and do in Chad
Attractions in Chad
Admire the artefacts at the National Museum
Housed in a purpose-built structure on the edge of the city, the National Museum at N'Djaména features a range of fine collections, which explore everything from folk art and to the traditions of the country's people. Outside stands an elegant modern sculpture of a tribesperson with the world in the palm of their hand.
Head to the camel races
Catch a glimpse of some of the best camel racing in the world in the Tibesti Mountains, home of the fierce Toubou tribe. This astonishing Saharan region of chasms and crags contains palm-fringed oases, ancient rock art, hot springs, and Emi Koussi, the country's highest peak, at 3,450m (11,300ft).
Marvel at an inland sea
Lake Chad must be seen to be believed. Not only was the lake the centre of Africa's lucrative salt trade, but it is also one of the largest fresh water lakes in the world. It is best visited between August and December, when the water level is highest and the occasional hippo or crocodile can be seen drifting by. Though spectacular, there are fears for Lake Chad, which has shrunk dramatically over the last 30 years due to climate change and the demands of agriculture.
Quaff cold beers on a brewery tour
Take a glug of cold beer at the Gala Brewery in Moundou, Chad's second largest city. Produced since independence, it is the country's most popular lager, with over one million barrels produced each year. Located in Chad's far south, Moundou is also home to the Ngambai people.
Relax in Douguia
With its beautiful location on the Chari River, Douguia was designed as a tourist centre and has indeed become something of a hotspot. Boatman take visitors out on the water in traditional pirogue canoes to explore the region, witnessing the everyday lives of locals, large flocks of birds, and hippos.
See the coloured lakes of Ounianga
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, the lakes of Ounianga are a series of 18 interconnected lakes that help form a surreal waterscape within the depths of the Sahara Desert. The colours can be astonishing, with the lake waters ranging from blue and green to red as a result of their varying chemical compositions.
Trek to Guelta d’Archei
Located in the striking Ennedi Plateau in Chad's northeast, the Guelta d'Archei is a long-used desert waterhole vital for the survival of a number of species in the area. The small population of Nile crocodile that remain here is probably the last in the Sahara.
Visit the ancient city of Abéché
A former capital of the powerful Ouadaï sultanate, Abéché has retained much of its ancient charm. The old city and its somewhat rundown sultan's palace, mosques and dynastic tombs remain behind a protective wall, while the cobbled streets are walked by nomadic tribespeople visiting from the surrounding desert.
Wander N'Djaména's distinctive quarters
Chad's capital is slowly regaining its reputation as one of Central Africa's liveliest cities. The historic quarter, with its colourful daily market, is fascinating place to examine Chadian rugs and jewellery up close. The Arab quarter remains understated and quiet at night, while the African quarter is alive with bars.
Witness Chad’s wildlife at Zakouma National Park
Zakouma National Park is located on an immense plain, across which the Bahr Salamat River and its tributaries flow from north to south. Refurbished and restocked with wildlife, visitors can see herds of elephant, as well as giraffe and lion, either on game drives or on ranger-guided walks.
