Tourist attractions

Ennedi Massif Natural and Cultural Landscape

Region: Wadi Fira Region

Mixed Heritage

UNESCO World Heritage featuring sandstone arches, canyons, and prehistoric rock art.

Ounianga Lakes

Region: Borkou Region

Nature

18 freshwater and saltwater lakes remaining in Sahara Desert. Fantastical contrast of deep blue waters and sand dunes.

Zakouma National Park

Region: Salamat Region

Nature

Protected area with high density of large wildlife including elephants, giraffes, and lions.

Tibesti Mountains

Region: Borkou Region

Nature

Desolate mountainous region containing Sahara's highest peak Emi Koussi volcano.

Lake Chad

Region: Western four-country border

Nature

Africa's fourth-largest lake with unique landscape of fishing village culture and floating islands.

National Museum (N'Djamena)

Region: N'Djamena

Culture

National museum exhibiting dinosaur fossils and ethnic materials.

N'Djamena Grand Mosque

Region: N'Djamena

Religious Architecture

Modern Islamic architecture built near central market.

Abéché Old Town

Region: Ouaddaï Region

Historic City

Oasis city retaining 19th-century Wadai Kingdom walls and souks.

Guelta d'Archei Rock Art

Region: Ennedi Region

Cultural Heritage

Prehistoric wall paintings depicting hunting and pastoralism remaining on cliffs.

Ati Sahara Sunset Spot

Region: Batha Region

Nature

Famous sunset spot enjoying sun setting over dry grassland and traditional horn sounds.

Suggested itineraries

Lake Chad and Sahel Culture Exploration

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: N'Djamena Central Market, Lake Chad Cruise, Bororo Pastoralist Camp

Short trip experiencing lakeshore fishing village and pastoralist life from capital.

Ennedi World Heritage and Zakouma Safari

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Rock Arches, Cave Paintings, Zakouma National Park Safari, Night Lion Tracking

Circular tour exploring eastern wonders and southern savanna by charter plane and 4WD.

Tibesti Highlands 4×4 Adventure

Duration (days): 8

Highlights: Emi Koussi Summit, Toubou Market, Crater Lake Oasis

Traverse Sahara's deepest regions with specialist guide and enjoy starry camp.

Travel tips

  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate required upon entry.
  • Dry season (November-March) has stable road conditions suitable for travel.
  • Prepare mosquito repellent and prophylactics for malaria and dengue.
  • Cash society; prepare plenty of small FCFA bills.
  • Modest dress with little exposure desirable in Islamic areas.
  • Photographing military/police facilities prohibited; violation risks equipment confiscation.
  • Avoid nighttime outings and suburban road travel.
  • Communications unstable outside capital; use offline maps.
  • Use factory-sealed bottled water for drinking; avoid ice.
  • Carry GPS and satellite phone when entering mountains/desert; travel in multiple vehicles.