Best things to do in Chad

The abundance of wildlife at Zakouma National Park makes this area one of the world's top safari destinations. Home to 44 species of large mammals, the park shelters endangered elephants, lions, giraffes, leopards, and buffaloes, as well as many bird species.

Established in 1962, Musée National du Tchad showcases four exhibits that include prehistory, protohistory, archives and folk crafts, and traditions. Discover the pebble culture and Stone Age objects, see the baked bricks of the Boulala and Babalia people, as well as masks and different tools. Though some objects have been lost over the years, the museum continues to tell the story about the beginnings of human civilization.

Avenue Charles de Gaulle serves as the capital's center for shopping and embassies. Full of diverse boutiques stretching for over 1 km (0.6 mi), the commercial center buzzes with modern restaurants and busy bars, drawing both tourists and the local population. Walk the main avenue full of foreign embassies, including the Nigerian and U.S. embassy, and take in the urban life of the local residents and foreign diplomats.

A remote and secluded oasis, Guelta d’Archei was created by underground water emerging to the surface hundreds of years ago. The oasis sustains the area's plant and animal life and serves as the natural habitat for one of the last Nile crocodile colonies in the desert. To reach this out-of-the-way spot, you'll need a car and a local guide.

View the mystical 18 Lakes of Ounianga, each interconnected and surrounded by postcard perspectives of the Sahara, a World Heritage Site. Discover each lake's eco-individuality--from hyper-saline to fresh water--and admire the diverse desert surroundings of the area, which has a strong history of early human migration. Take in the colorful, paradise-like views of mountains, sand dunes, and palm trees while keeping an eye out for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the bizarrely shaped fresh-water rivers.

Observe the immense Lake Chad, which supplies water to 68 million people despite being relatively shallow. Ride an old-fashioned boat along the lake while keeping an eye out for crocodiles and taking in scenic panoramas of the surrounding forests. You can also get a sense of local life and culture, with many people living and working near the lake's shores. Interestingly, the lake's area--currently 26,000 sq km (10,000 sq mi)--and depth are slowly shrinking. Conservation efforts aim to prevent this, but it's worth seeing the lake before it's too late.

Visit Grand Mosque N'Djamena, a place of spiritual unity, a central element of N'Djamena, and a common space for locals to gather. Experience mass among worshipers of Islam in this sacred building, or listen to the echo of prayer booming from the mass itself while enjoying the city views surrounding it.

Check out Tibesti Mountains, spreading across a massive area of untouched landscape. Travel between various rock formations that look like artistically sculpted statues; some of them hide ancient paintings, so keep your eyes peeled. Climb the highest peak of 3,445 m (11,302 ft), or visit the five volcanos and their deep craters. Most of the ground in the area is tough and covered with dry lava, volcanic deposits, sands, and rocks. From time to time you'll find small oases and settlements, as well as animals roaming freely across the area.

Find a genuine sample of Chadian culture at Grand Marche (Central Market), one of the liveliest spots in city. Buy everything you need, from food to clothing and shoes, or spend time searching for a traditional souvenir or an original piece of local art.

Established in 1964, Gala Brewery produces possibly the country's most popular beer, selling over a million barrels each year. After a tour, enjoy a an ice-cold lager, brewed with pure spring water--it's an ideal refreshment on a hot day.