Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities require a visa; obtain from Chad embassy (limited global presence) before arrival. E-visas not available. Visa on arrival is possible for some nationalities but unreliable. Processing is slow. Vaccination against yellow fever, meningitis, and polio is recommended. Passport valid for 6+ months required.
Money & payments
Currency is CFA Franc (XAF). EUR and USD can be exchanged in N'Djamena; rates are poor. ATMs are minimal and unreliable. Bring cash. Credit cards barely exist outside international hotels. Expect cash economy. Currency shortages are possible.
SIM cards & internet
Mobile networks: Maroc Telecom, Airtel, and Zain operate. Coverage is available in N'Djamena and south; northern Sahara has no signal. Data is expensive and slow. Buy SIM in the city; registration required. Internet cafes exist in N'Djamena. Plan for offline travel in the interior.
Getting around
No reliable public transportation or trains. Roads are mostly unpaved; 4x4 is essential. Distances are vast; fuel is scarce outside cities. Hire a 4x4 with driver for any remote travel. Flights are rare and unreliable. Plan every journey with significant time buffers.
Health
Malaria is endemic; take prophylaxis. Yellow fever, meningitis, and sleeping sickness occur. Sanitation is poor; waterborne diseases common. Tap water unsafe. Medical care is minimal; serious cases require evacuation. Bring comprehensive medical supplies and any prescriptions.
Language & etiquette
French is official; Arabic and Sara are major languages. English is rare. Learn basic French and Arabic greetings. Handshakes are standard. Avoid discussing politics or security. Photography: always ask. Dress modestly, especially in Muslim areas. Tipping is not customary.
When to go
Dry season November-February is best; roads are more passable. Harmattan winds create dust and low temperatures at night. Rainy season May-September brings flooding and impassable roads. April and October are transitional. Southern regions are cooler than the Sahara year-round.
Getting there
N'Djamena's Hassan Djamous International Airport (NDJ) connects via Air Senegal and occasional Middle Eastern carriers. Overland from Cameroon follows savanna and river passages. The northern Saharan routes require guides and four-wheel-drive. The Chari River provides passage though seasonal flooding and rapids limit use.