Tchad: An Underrated Gem Waiting to Be Discovered

Stay connected while exploring Tchad, an underrated gem waiting to be discovered, with Airtel’s comprehensive International Roaming plans that ensure seamless communication and connectivity during your travels.

Landlocked in the heart of Africa, Tchad is a country that often flies under the radar of international tourism. But those who venture to this lesser-known destination are rewarded with a wealth of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences. From the rugged beauty of the Sahara to the lush wetlands of Lake Chad, Tchad’s tourist places offer a diverse array of landscapes and adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best places to visit in Tchad, showcasing the country’s most beautiful places and famous places that make it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

 

1. Zakouma National Park

Zakouma National Park is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Tchad for wildlife enthusiasts. This 3,000-square-kilometre sanctuary in the southeast is home to an impressive array of fauna, including:

• Elephants

• Giraffes

• Lions

• Leopards

• Cheetahs

• Buffaloes

• Antelopes

• Over 370 bird species

The park’s successful conservation efforts have led to a thriving elephant population, with over 550 individuals roaming the savannah. Visitors can embark on guided safaris to witness these majestic creatures up close, along with other iconic African wildlife. Accommodations range from rustic campsites to luxurious lodges, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Key Information	Details
Location	Southeastern Tchad
Size	Approximately 3,000 sq. km
Best Time to Visit	December to April (dry season)
Activities	Game drives, bird watching, guided walking safaris
Accommodations	Campsites, eco-lodges, luxury tented camps

 

2. Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve

The Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Tchad’s stunning desert landscapes and ancient rock art. This famous place in Tchad is known for its towering sandstone formations, deep canyons, and unique geological features sculpted by wind and water over millions of years.

 

The reserve is also a treasure trove of prehistoric art, with thousands of rock paintings and engravings dating back to the Neolithic period. These ancient artworks depict scenes of daily life, animals, and mythical creatures, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

 

Visitors can explore the Ennedi on foot, by camel, or in 4×4 vehicles. Guided tours are recommended to navigate the vast desert terrain and locate the most significant rock art sites. The best time to visit is during the cooler months of November to February.

 

3. N’Djamena

As Tchad’s capital and largest city, N’Djamena is a bustling metropolis that blends modernity with tradition. The city’s main attractions include:

1. Grand Mosque: An impressive architectural landmark with a 60-metre minaret.

2. National Museum: Houses a collection of artefacts showcasing Tchad’s history and culture.

3. Central Market: A vibrant bazaar where you can shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

4. Avenue Charles de Gaulle: The city’s main thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and government buildings.

To get a taste of local life, head to one of N’Djamena’s lively markets, such as the Marché Central or Grand Marché. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and spices to colourful fabrics and handmade jewellery. Be sure to haggle for the best prices!

For a deeper understanding of Tchad’s history and culture, visit the National Museum. The museum’s exhibits cover topics ranging from prehistoric times to the colonial era and beyond. Don’t miss the traditional musical instruments and ceremonial masks on display.

 

4. Guelta d’Archei

Nestled in the heart of the Sahara, Guelta d’Archei is a desert oasis that’s home to one of Tchad’s most surprising inhabitants: the Nile crocodile. This tourist place in Tchad is a canyon with a permanent water source, creating a unique ecosystem in the middle of the arid Ennedi Plateau.

 

The sight of crocodiles basking on the rocks or swimming in the crystal-clear pools is a surreal experience. Visitors can also spot other desert-adapted species, such as:

• Dorcas gazelles

• Baboons

• Hyraxes

• Migratory birds

Getting to Guelta d’Archei requires a 4×4 vehicle and a local guide. The journey takes you through the stunning desert landscapes of the Ennedi, with stops at hidden rock art sites along the way. Camping near the guelta allows you to witness the oasis at different times of day, from the golden light of sunrise to the star-filled night sky.

 

5. Lakes of Ounianga

The Lakes of Ounianga are a series of 18 interconnected lakes in the heart of the Sahara, forming the world’s largest lake system in a desert environment. This most beautiful place in Tchad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its exceptional natural beauty and unique hydrological system.

 

The lakes are fed by underground aquifers and are known for their striking colors, ranging from deep blue to emerald green. The surrounding desert landscapes create a stunning contrast, with wind-sculpted sand dunes and rocky outcrops.

 

Visitors can explore the lakes on foot, discovering hidden coves and pristine beaches. Swimming in the clear, warm waters is a refreshing respite from the desert heat. The area is also home to diverse birdlife, including migratory species that use the lakes as a stopover on their long journeys.

 

6. Lake Chad

Lake Chad is one of the most iconic tourist places in Tchad, straddling the borders of four countries: Tchad, Cameroon, Niger, and Nigeria. This vast freshwater lake has been a lifeline for the region’s people and wildlife for millennia.

The lake’s size fluctuates dramatically with the seasons and has been shrinking in recent decades due to climate change and human activities. However, it remains a vital resource for:

• Fishing

• Agriculture

• Transportation

• Biodiversity

Visitors can explore the lake’s shoreline, dotted with traditional fishing villages and bustling markets. Boat trips offer a chance to witness the daily life of the lake’s communities and spot the diverse birdlife that relies on this critical wetland habitat.

 

7. Tibesti Mountains

The Tibesti Mountains are a rugged, volcanic range in northern Tchad, forming one of the most remote and least explored regions of the Sahara. This beautiful place is home to Tchad’s highest peak, Emi Koussi, which rises to 3,445 metres above sea level.

The Tibesti’s harsh, otherworldly landscapes are a playground for adventurers and nature lovers. Trekking through the canyons, calderas, and lava fields offers a chance to discover hidden oases, ancient rock art, and geological wonders.

 

The region is also home to the Toubou people, a nomadic pastoralist group known for their resillience and adaptability to the extreme desert environment. Visiting their remote settlements provides a unique insight into their traditional way of life.

 

8. Faya-Largeau

Faya-Largeau is a desert town in northern Tchad, known for its palm groves, salt flats, and ancient ruins. This famous place was once a key stopover on the trans-Saharan trade routes, and its history is still visible in the crumbling mudbrick buildings and abandoned fortifications.

 

Today, Faya-Largeau is a gateway to the Tibesti Mountains and the surrounding desert landscapes. Visitors can explore the nearby salt flats, where locals harvest the mineral using traditional techniques, or visit the palm groves that provide a vital source of shade and sustenance in the harsh environment.

 

The town is also known for its vibrant market, where you can shop for local crafts, textiles, and spices. Be sure to try the fresh dates and pomegranates grown in the nearby oases!

 

9. Abeche

Abeche is a historic city in eastern Tchad, known for its well-preserved sultanate architecture and vibrant cultural scene. This Tchad tourist place was once the capital of the Wadai Empire, a powerful Islamic state that ruled the region from the 16th to the early 20th century.

 

The city’s main attractions include:

1. Sultan’s Palace: A grand mudbrick complex that served as the residence of the Wadai sultans.

2. Grand Mosque: An impressive example of Sahelian architecture, with a tall minaret and intricate decorations.

3. Abeche Museum: Houses a collection of artifacts showcasing the region’s history and culture.

4. Camel Market: A bustling bazaar where you can see the trading of camels and other livestock.

Abeche is also known for its lively music and dance scene, with regular performances of traditional Sahelian styles such as the ouaddaï and the derdé. Attending a cultural event is a great way to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and connect with locals.

 

10. Goz Beïda

Goz Beïda is a small town in southeastern Tchad, known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. This beautiful place is surrounded by the Ouaddaï highlands, a rugged landscape of rocky outcrops, seasonal rivers, and savannah grasslands.

The town is home to the Dadjo people, an ethnic group known for their intricate pottery, basketry, and leatherwork. Visiting the local markets and workshops is a great way to appreciate their craftsmanship and support the community.

Goz Beïda is also a gateway to the nearby Siniaka Minia Wildlife Reserve, a protected area that’s home to a variety of fauna, including:

• Elephants

• Giraffes

• Leopards

• Hyenas

• Antelopes

Guided safaris and walking tours offer a chance to explore the reserve’s diverse habitats and spot its elusive wildlife.

 

Practical Information

Getting There

Tchad’s main international airport is in N’Djamena, with regular flights from cities such as Paris, Istanbul, and Addis Ababa. Domestic flights connect the capital to other major towns, such as Abeche and Moundou.

 

Overland travel is possible from neighbouring countries, but border crossings can be challenging due to security concerns and poor road conditions. It’s essential to check the latest travel advisories and obtain the necessary visas and permits before entering Tchad.

 

Staying Connected during your visit to Tchad with Airtel’s International Roaming Plan

 

Exploring Tchad’s remote corners doesn’t mean losing touch with the world. With Airtel’s Postpaid International Roaming plans, you can stay connected wherever your adventures take you. Whether you’re sharing photos from the Ennedi Plateau or booking a safari in Zakouma, Airtel’s reliable coverage and affordable data packages keep you connected without the hassle of local SIM cards.

Tchad may not be on every traveller’s radar, but that’s precisely its appeal. In this untamed land, you’ll find a raw beauty and authenticity that’s increasingly rare in our globalised world. So pack your sense of adventure, an open mind, and your trusty Airtel SIM card – Tchad’s most beautiful places await.