The best time to go to Chad is typically between November and May when game viewing opportunities are spectacular. The climate of Chad is variable throughout the year, ranging from torrential rains to scorching heat. The month in which you decide to visit will largely depend on your ability to deal with high temperatures, as the heat can rise to around 40ºC during the hotter months between May and October. The first few months of the year are slightly cooler, with an average temperature of around 25ºC and very little chance of rainfall. The only time that travel to Chad is not recommended is from June until October when the heavy rains pour, leaving Zakouma National Park flooded and completely impassable.
In Chad, January is part of the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is hot and sunny, with low humidity and little to no rainfall. In January, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 31°C (88°F), while the average low temperature is around 15°C (59°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can be even hotter, with daytime highs averaging around 35°C (95°F). Overall, January is a good time to visit Chad if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, as the dry season provides plenty of opportunities for exploring the country's national parks and other natural attractions.
As the rains pass and Chad returns to its dry Sahara-like conditions, the wildlife begins to congregate back once again and return to their usual habitat in Zakouma National Park. The months of March and April are the best times to visit the park due to the vast numbers of diverse wildlife, including African elephant, Kordofan giraffe, bushbuck, striped jackals, crowned crane and many more. Temperatures can rise to around 40ºC and there is a chance of rain, but the game viewing possibilities are breathtaking.
Chad experiences heavy rainfall from June to October, leaving Zakouma National Park completely inaccessible due to flooding. Some species of wildlife migrate outside of the park boundaries at this time and therefore the wildlife viewing opportunities are significantly lowered.
Unlike some other African safari destinations, Chad remains relatively untouched. The wild experiences this remote destination offers are unparalleled. Venturing into the rugged Zakouma National Park is truly unique and regarded as one of Africa’s best kept secrets.
From 14500 per person
Zakouma National Park is a protected area located in southeastern Chad, in the region of Salamat. It was established in 1963 and covers an area of 3,000 square kilometers.
Read moreKnown for its diverse wildlife, which includes elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and many species of antelope, Zakouma National Park spans over 3,000 km2 and is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It is also one of the most heavily protected areas in Africa, featuring anti-poaching patrols, community outreach programs, and substantial infrastructure development.
Lake Chad sits at the crossroads of Chad, Cameroon, Niger, and Nigeria and is known for its everchanging size due to climate flutionations and human acitivies. It serves as a fantastic location to view a variety of bird species including herons, egrets, pelicans and cormorants. You'll also be able to witness traditional fishing methods and the lake is home to tilapia, catfish and Nile perch.
Located in the Sahara Desert in northern Chad, the Tibesti Mountains are a remote and rugged range known for unique geological features and the opportunity to experience isolated and pristine wilderness.
A natural oasis and geological wonder located in the Ennedi Plateau region of northeastern Chad, the wildlife here has adapted to survive in the harsh desert environment. Animal encounters in and around The Guelta d'Archei include the Nile crocodile, Nubian ibex, barbary sheep, desert foxes and a variety of lizards and snakes.
