Chad 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Chad

This itinerary focuses on the Ennedi Massif, a stunning sandstone massif in the Sahara Desert, known for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient rock art. The Ennedi is a remote region and requires specific planning for access and safety.

Day 1: Arrival in N’Djamena & Logistics

  • Fly into N’djamena: Arrange flights to N’djemena (NDJ), the capital of Chad.

  • Things to know:

    • The official language is French, but many languages are spoken in Chad.
    • Currency: The CFA franc (XAF) is used in Chad. Ensure you have local currency or can easily exchange it upon arrival.
    • Safety: Chad’s security situation can be unpredictable. It is crucial to check the latest travel advisories and register with your embassy for updates.

Day 2-3: Journey to the Ennedi Massif & Exploration Begins

  • Travel to the Ennedi: Hire a local guide (highly recommended) who will handle transportation, permits, logistics, and most importantly, ensure your safety during this trip.
  • Guided Tour: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Ennedi with your experienced guide.

    • Things to consider:

      • The Ennedi Massif is located in a remote region of eastern Chad. You’ll likely be traveling through desert landscapes and need to be prepared for the heat and potential dust storms.

      • Guide Expertise: Discuss your interests with the guide beforehand to ensure they can provide you with an itinerary that matches your preferences.

      • Accommodation: Your guide will help you find suitable accommodation in the Ennedi, which may include camping under the stars or staying in basic lodges.

Day 3-7: Exploring the Wonders of the Ennedi

  • Activities:

    • Hike through the dramatic canyons and rock formations.

    • Visit ancient cave paintings: The Ennedi is home to some of the oldest and most impressive rock art in Africa, dating back thousands of years. You’ll want to see these!

    • Experience the desert culture: Explore local villages with your guide, learn about traditional nomadic lifestyles, and interact with the friendly Toubou people who inhabit this region.

Specific locations for the Ennedi Massif:

  • The “Natural Bridge” of the Natak Formation: A stunning geological feature that spans a deep chasm and offers incredible views.
  • The “Grand Canyon” of Chad: Witness the dramatic beauty of this vast canyon system with its intricate sandstone carvings.
  • The Elephant Graveyard: See a unique collection of ancient rock formations shaped like… you guessed it, elephants!

Things to know about the Ennedi:

  • Remote location: The Ennedi is located in a remote part of Chad and requires a significant amount of planning and preparation.
  • Local guide: Due to its remoteness and potential dangers, hiring a local guide is crucial for safety and obtaining necessary information about the region and its history.

Day 3-4: Explore the Sahara’s Majesty

  • Guided tour of the desert: This could involve trekking through the vast dunes and exploring the unique flora and fauna that have adapted to survive in this harsh environment.
  • Meet with a local nomad: Learn about their nomadic lifestyle, traditions, and the challenges they face living in the Ennedi.

Things to consider:

  • Weather: Be prepared for extreme heat during the day, as temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F) in the summer months.
  • Gear: Pack light clothing, sunscreen, a hat and sturdy shoes for hiking.

Transportation:

You’ll need to hire a local guide who can arrange 4x4 vehicle transportation and/or camel riding experiences.

Things to consider:

  • The harshness of the terrain: Travel in the Ennedi is typically done by 4x4 vehicles or camels due to its ruggedness.
  • The need for permits: Entering the Ennedi often requires special permits for travel and access to certain areas, which your guide can help you obtain.

Things to note about permits:

  • Requirements: Check with the Chadian Ministry of Tourism or a reputable tour operator for information on specific permit requirements for visiting the Ennedi.
  • Cost: Be aware that obtaining these permits may have a cost and require some paperwork, so it’s best to be prepared beforehand.

Day 5-7: Discovering the Hidden Treasures

  • Explore the “Dinosaur Trail” (optional): The Ennedi is home to fossilized dinosaur bones and footprints.

Things to consider:

  • Safety: Always prioritize safety in the desert. Travel with a reputable guide who knows the area well and can ensure your well-being.
  • Weather: Weather conditions in the desert can change rapidly, so be prepared for the possibility of encountering extreme heat or sandstorms. Your guide will be able to advise you on local weather patterns.

Things to do:

  • Experience the natural beauty of the Enneda Massif: Explore the canyons, valleys and rock formations.
  • Learn about the history and culture of the region: The Chad region has a rich and fascinating history. Visit the historical sites with your guide.
  • Immerse yourself in the desert landscape: Visit the “Natural Bridge” on a guided trek or by camel.

Note:

This itinerary focuses on the Ennedi region, but you can easily adapt it to other destinations.

Important Note: This itinerary is a suggestion and requires further research and planning. Always consult with local authorities and travel advisories for the most up-to-date information on safe travel practices and potential risks in the specific areas you plan to visit.

Things to consider for a 7 day itinerary:

  • Transportation: The guide will be crucial in organizing this, as it’s likely you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle or camels to reach these destinations.

  • Safety: The guide can help with the logistics of transportation and ensure that your trip is safe and enjoyable.

  • Accommodation: This will be essential for a multi-day trip. Your guide will know the best campsites or lodges.

  • Things to do:

    • Hiking: The guide will advise on the best routes and trails, taking into account the weather and terrain.
    • Photography: Capture the beauty of the desert landscapes and the unique cave paintings.

  • Things to consider:

    • Health: Pack a well-stocked first aid kit and discuss any necessary vaccinations or malaria prophylactics with your doctor.

    • Safety Precautions:

      • Remember, the guide is there to help you navigate the area safely and responsibly.
      • Discuss the itinerary and any potential risks with them before setting off.

Accommodation:

  • This part of the world is not known for its luxurious hotels. Your guide can likely connect you with local guides in the Ennedi who are familiar with the best (and safest) places to stay.

Important Note: Always consult with your guide and/or local authorities about the current situation. They may recommend certain areas or activities, but they’ll also be able to provide real-time information on any safety concerns.

  • Respect for local culture: The Ennedi is a remote region inhabited by nomadic people. Be mindful of their customs and traditions when visiting the “Natural Arch” and other cultural sites.
  • Safety in the Sahara: Remember that the Sahara Desert is a vast and challenging environment. It’s crucial to listen to your guide’s instructions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Things to consider:

  • Accommodation Options: With a local guide, you can discuss the type of accommodation you prefer (e.g., camping in the desert, staying in a traditional Toubou camp).

  • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation in case of emergency.

  • Local Culture: The guide will be able to explain local customs and traditions, and it’s important to follow their guidance to avoid causing any offense.

  • Leave no trace: Pack out all your trash and belongings, and avoid disturbing the environment or wildlife.

  • Respect for the Toubou People:

Remember that you are a guest in their community. Be respectful of their customs and beliefs.

Possible activities with a local guide:

  • 4x4 excursions to remote archaeological sites
  • Hiking tours through the desert landscapes
  • Camel treks across the dunes
  • Visits to traditional villages and markets
  • Cultural experiences with the local people, such as learning about their nomadic lifestyle and witnessing ancient rituals.