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.
February is also part of the dry season in Chad, which typically runs from November to April. The weather during this time is generally hot and dry, with low humidity and little to no rainfall.
In February, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 35°C (95°F), while the average low temperature is around 18°C (64°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can be even hotter, with daytime highs averaging around 38°C (100°F) or higher.
March is still part of the dry season in Chad, which typically runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally hot and dry, with low humidity and little to no rainfall. In March, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 38°C (100°F), while the average low temperature is around 21°C (70°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can be even hotter, with daytime highs averaging around 42°C (108°F) or higher.
April marks the end of the dry season in Chad, which typically runs from November to April. The weather during this time is still generally hot and dry, but temperatures may begin to cool slightly as the country transitions into the rainy season. In April, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 40°C (104°F), while the average low temperature is around 24°C (75°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot, with daytime highs averaging around 45°C (113°F) or higher.
April can be a challenging time to visit Chad due to the extreme heat, but it's still possible to have an enjoyable trip by taking precautions to protect yourself from the sun and heat, such as wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, temperatures begin to cool as the country receives increased rainfall and higher levels of humidity. In May, temperatures in Chad can still be hot, but they may begin to cool slightly compared to the previous months. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 37°C (99°F), while the average low temperature is around 25°C (77°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the increased humidity. May can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in seeing the country's landscapes begin to green up after months of dryness. However, it's important to note that the rainy season can make travel more challenging, as some roads and routes may become impassable due to flooding. It's also important to take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria, which can be more prevalent during the rainy season.
June falls in the middle of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more humid, with increased rainfall. In June, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 34°C (93°F), while the average low temperature is around 24°C (75°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the increased humidity. June can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in seeing the country's landscapes in full bloom and experiencing the cultural events that take place during this time, such as the Gerewol festival of the Wodaabe people.
July falls in the middle of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more humid, with increased rainfall. In July, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 32°C (90°F), while the average low temperature is around 24°C (75°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the increased humidity. July can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in experiencing the country's cultural events, such as the Mbororo Fulani festival or the Nguigmi camel race. It's also a good time to see the country's landscapes in full bloom and experience the natural beauty of Chad's national parks, such as Zakouma National Park.
August falls towards the end of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more humid, with increased rainfall. In August, 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 24°C (75°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the increased humidity.
September is towards the end of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more humid, with increased rainfall. In September, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 32°C (90°F), while the average low temperature is around 24°C (75°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the increased humidity. September can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in experiencing the country's cultural events, such as the Mbororo Fulani festival or the Nguigmi camel race. It's also a good time to see the country's landscapes in full bloom and experience the natural beauty of Chad's national parks, such as Zakouma National Park.
October is towards the end of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more humid, with increased rainfall. In October, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 35°C (95°F), while the average low temperature is around 24°C (75°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the increased humidity. October can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in experiencing the country's cultural events, such as the Gaoui festival or the Kouri Bougoudi festival. It's also a good time to see the country's landscapes in full bloom and experience the natural beauty of Chad's national parks, such as Zakouma National Park.
November marks the end of the rainy season in Chad, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more humid, with increased rainfall. In November, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 35°C (95°F), while the average low temperature is around 18°C (64°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the decreased humidity. November can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in experiencing the country's cultural events, such as the Kossou Festival or the Abéché Camel Race. It's also a good time to explore Chad's national parks, such as Zakouma National Park, which is now accessible after the rainy season.
December is the beginning of the dry season in Chad, which typically runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally hot and dry, with little to no rainfall. In December, temperatures in Chad can vary depending on the region. In the capital city of N'Djamena, the average high temperature is around 30°C (86°F), while the average low temperature is around 13°C (55°F). In the northern region of Chad, which includes the Sahara Desert, temperatures can still be quite hot during the day, but may cool off more at night due to the dry air. December can be a good time to visit Chad if you're interested in experiencing the country's cultural events, such as the Christmas celebrations in the larger cities. It's also a good time to explore Chad's national parks, such as Zakouma National Park, which is now fully accessible after the rainy season.
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 18000 per person
Travel on an unforgettable and one-off journey combining two very unique counties. Unlike more popular safari destinations, the Central African Republic and Chad remain as hidden gems, providing a unique opportunity to explore untouched terrain, where untamed wilderness and extraordinary encounters await. This expert-led safari promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, conservation, and remarkable encounters in some of Africa’s few untouched wilderness areas.
From 52500 per personKnown 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 fluctuations 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.
Conservation Minded
We are proud to support responsible travel to Zakouma National Park — a beacon of conservation success in central Africa. Run by African Parks, this vast wilderness is home to thriving populations of elephants, lions and Kordofan giraffes, thanks to an extraordinary recovery effort. By travelling with us, you contribute directly to the protection of this unique ecosystem and the communities that help sustain it.
Wealth of Experience
Chad may be one of Africa’s last true frontiers, but our experience here runs deep. We work closely with African Parks and our trusted partners on the ground to ensure seamless logistics, exceptional guiding, and privileged access to remote corners of Zakouma. Our clients don’t just visit — they become part of something bigger.
Wildlife Specialists
Zakouma offers wildlife encounters like nowhere else — from dramatic elephant gatherings to skies dark with millions of queleas. Our trips are timed with the seasons to maximise your chances of seeing the region’s most iconic species in peak activity. Expect expert guides, immersive experiences, and a front-row seat to one of Africa’s greatest wildlife turnarounds.
