Destination:
Chad

Overview

The Republic of Chad, in central Africa, is one of the continent's most troubled nations. Political conflict and violence are rife and N'Djamena, the capital, is where most of the fighting occurs. As a consequence, this is one of the poorest countries in the world; most Chadians live as subsistence farmers and herders. As far back as 700 BC, people moved into the Chadian basin in great numbers. Today it is home to over 200 different ethnic groups, with Arabic and French as the official languages, and Islam the most widely practised religion. Its landlocked location and desert climate have earned Chad the title 'Dead Heart of Africa'. It has a Sudanese savannah area in the south and Lake Chad, after which the country is named, is the second largest wetland in Africa. After the lake, the most popular attractions are the desert landscapes of Ennedi and the Zakouma National Park. Emi Koussi, in the Sahara, is the country's highest peak and other places of interest include the Chad National Museum and the Chad Cultural Centre. Chad remains a dangerous place and hence tourist visits are not advised at this time.

Basics

Customs
Customs and culture in Chad vary quite a bit in terms of the diverse tribal and religious backgrounds of the local population. Some etiquette in Chad is universal however, including respect for elders and maintaining a reserved demeanour in public. Smoking and drinking in public is frowned on. Women should dress conservatively with their shoulders and legs covered, and shorts are generally not worn in public. Visitors to Chad should respect the restrictions in place during Ramadan, including not eating during the day. Never attempt to shake a person's hand, give or receive money, or eat with the left hand as it is considered unclean.

Duty Free
Visitors to Chad may import three bottles of wine and one bottle of spirits, and an amount of perfume reasonable for personal use. Men may possess up to 400 cigarettes/125 cigars/500g of tobacco, while women may only bring cigarettes.

Currency

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Health

Health Overview

Visa

Americans


UK nationals


Canadians


Australians


South Africans


Irish nationals


New Zealanders

Passport/Visa Note

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Contacts

Chad Tourism

Foreign Embassies in Chad

Chad Embassies

Regions and Cities