Chad Driving Guide

Are you looking for a fun safari adventure? Chad is an exciting place to travel as you see the natural wonders of the Sahara Desert, Ennedi Desert, Zakouma National Park, and Lake Chad. You’ll also get to meet people from different indigenous tribes and culture that flourishes in the country. So now, picture yourself having an adventure in the oases in the northern deserts, running in the wildlife of national parks, or even awaiting boats on Lake Chad.

Chad is truly a place where travelers and foreign visitors leave their comfort zone and say yes to new adventures. Make new memories and experiences while traveling in Chad. The commercial hubs attract more people from different ethnic backgrounds, making it a country with diverse social structures.

Before you set your foot in Chad, you need to do some background research about the places you want to go to or the country’s road conditions. This guide will help you know Chad’s general information, renting a car, road rules, driving conditions, and the top destinations. Driving in Chad means you get to explore the country at your own time and pace. Just be sure you have your International Driving Permit, and you know Chad driving routines.

Before you explore Chad, it is essential to know the country’s relevant information to be easier for you to interact with the locals. One of the best ways to prepare is to gather and know background information about Chad. Learn more about Chad’s geography, history, government, tourism, and languages to be ready to deal with the challenges of visiting a foreign country.

Chad is a landlocked country in north-central Africa. Libya bordered Chad on the north, Sudan on the east, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger on the west, and the Central African Republic on the south. The topography ranges from deserts to equatorial forests. It has a tropical climate, although the temperature varies depending on the region and area. The rainy season in the southern part is from May to October is, but it’s June to September in central Chad.

Chad recognized Arabic and French as its official languages, and there are more than 100 indigenous languages spoken in the country. A simplified Chadian Arabic spoken in markets and towns is linked to Islam, while the locals use the French language for communications and instructions related to education development. The 120 indigenous languages are categorized into 12 groups of languages.

• Sara-Bongo-Bagirmi
• Mundang-Tuburi-Mbum
• Chado-Hamitic
• Kanembu-Zaghawa
• Maba group
• Tama languages
• Daju
• Sango
• Bua
• Somrai
• Mimi
• Fur

The degree of variation of the people, religion, and languages underscores the region’s significance as the hotspot of social and cultural interchange. The country encloses a small but highly diverse population, which can speak over a hundred dialects.

Chad is the first largest country in Africa. Its total land area is 1,284,000 square kilometers, roughly equal to the combined regions of Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. Chad stretches for about 1,800 kilometers from its northernmost boundary to its southernmost point. The capital city, N'Djamena, is located more than 1,100 kilometers northeast of the Atlantic Ocean.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Islamization’s gradual process took place in the country, which saw the Bagirmi and Ouddai Kingdoms reach their zenith. Chad became a French protectorate in 1900 and became a colony in 1920. It was one of the four constituent territories of French Equatorial Africa in 1946. It only gained independence in 1960, having Francois Tombalbaye as the prime minister and leader of Parti Progressiste Tchadien (PTT).

Chad’s post-independence is full of political tensions due to the Muslims’ religious divisions in the north and Christian-Animist in the south. Some measure of political stability happened in the 1990s when self-proclaimed president Idriss Deby assumed power. However, the opposing factions continue to wage a civil war. Deby then became a president in 1996, and parliamentary elections happened in 1997. In the southern Doba region, they discovered large oil deposits that provided an opportunity for its economic growth.

Chad is a unitary and centralized republic. The executive branch had 22 governors, 61 prefects, and 252 sub-prefects that administered the national territory. The strong executive branch continues to dominate the Chadian political system. The Republic of Chad adopted a constitution in 1996 that established its framework and enumerated its citizens’ rights. The head of the government is President Idriss Deby.

The government continues to be dominated by a president and his Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) party. In April 2018, the parliament approved a constitution expanding President Deby’s power to stay in office until 2033. Most opposition lawyers boycotted it and reimposed a two-term limit. The presidency of Idriss Deby ends on August 21, 2021, for his fifth term. If he decides to stand re-election, he can still serve two six-year terms.

Sub-Saharan Africa’s travel and tourism market are small due to the lack of economic resources, investments, and infrastructure. In Chad, the number of tourist arrivals in 2017 is only 87,000. Over the past decade, the maximum value indicates 120,000 tourists in 2015 and a minimum value of 46,000 tourists in 2006.

Although there are small tourism and travel markets in the country, there are government efforts to improve tourism competitiveness. In 2020, the World Tourism Forum Institute signed a deal with Chad to boost tourism investments. The agreement set out a five-year development plan to increase visitors from 300,000 to 4,000,000 after five years.

The first thing you need to do before going on a trip to Chad is to get an International Driver's License/Permit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a United Nations regulated travel document that serves as proof that you are a legal driver in your home country at the date of the issue. Over 150 countries recognized an IDP as an international permit when driving in a foreign country. It is a supplement to your local driver’s license or Chad driving license, and it provides an extra photo ID translated into nine languages. Learn more about IDP here.

Your IDP translates your local identification details into nine languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Greek, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish. You need to have a translated driver’s license to overcome the language barriers with the local authorities who don’t speak your native language. Here are the countries that honor International Driving Permit and are the signatories to the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic:

• Albania
• Algeria
• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Bangladesh
• Barbados
• Belgium
• Benin
• Botswana
• Brunei Darussalam
• Bulgaria
• Burkina Faso
• Cambodia
• Canada
• Central African Republic
• Chile
• Congo
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Croatia
• Cuba
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Denmark
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• Egypt
• Fiji
• Finland
• France
• Georgia
• Ghana
• Greece
• Guatemala
• Haiti
• Vatican (Holy See)
• Hungary
• Iceland
• India
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Jamaica
• Japan
• Jordan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Lao People's Democratic Republic
• Lebanon
• Lesotho
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Madagascar
• Malawi
• Malaysia
• Mal
• Malta
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• Morocco
• Namibia
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Niger
• Nigeria
• Norway
• Papua New Guinea
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Philippines
• Poland
• Portugal
• Republic of Korea
• Romania
• Russian Federation
• Rwanda
• San Marino
• Senegal
• Serbia
• Sierra Leone
• Singapore
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Spain
• Sri Lanka
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Syrian Arab Republic
• Thailand
• Togo
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tunisia
• Turkey
• Uganda
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
• United States of America
• Venezuela
• Vietnam
• Zimbabwe

🚗 Ready to explore Chad? Secure your Worldwide Driving Permit online in Chad in just 8 minutes. Available 24/7 and valid in 150+ countries. Enjoy a seamless journey!

In most foreign countries, you need an IDP to drive and rent a car. It still depends on the treaties and bilateral agreements in your home country and in the place where you want to go. In Chad, you need to have your IDP if you’re going to drive in the country legally and to rent a car. You can drive for up to three months if you both have your local driver’s license and your IDP. You don’t need to enroll in a driving school or get a Chad driving instructor to get an IDP.

If you need an IDP urgently, you can check the application page on our website here. The International Drivers Association issues valid international driving permits. You’ll get your IDP in an instant after you completed the application and you already paid the fee. After you get approval and confirmation, IDA will send your IDP’s digital copy via your email after two hours. The physical copy will be sent to you after 15 days if you’re within the US. If you are living outside the US, you will get it after a month. You don’t need to get a Chad driving lesson to get an IDP.

The IDA’s application process is straightforward. You just need to select your IDP package, put the driver’s details and shipping information, pay the fee, and verify your identity. Once completed, you’ll receive a confirmation email about your IDP. You can easily follow IDA’s process. If you need guidance on applying for an IDP, you can call IDA’s customer representative to give you more information about the IDP and the application process.

Whether you’re exploring the cities of Chad or trying out new adventures, do yourself a favor to rent a car to maximize your time. Sometimes, you miss out on other opportunities to see beautiful places in the country because you have group tours or waste your time waiting for public transportation. Many car rental companies will offer you the best deals. Just don’t forget to get your International Driving Permit.

If you’re searching for a cheap car rental in Chad, you can search online and compare the deals they are offering you. Check the driving in Chad reviews to see other comments on car rental companies and their services. Many vehicles range from sedan to SUV and large vans that are spacious enough to fit your whole family comfortably. So what are you waiting for now? Here are the car rental companies you can check out.

• Alamo
• Avis
• Budget
• Centauro
• Enterprise
• Europcar
• Firefly
• Goldcar Rental
• Global Bush Travels
• Hertz
• National
• Rhodium Car Rentals
• Sixt
• Thrifty

Once you already review these car rental companies, you can compare the prices depending on the type of car you want, insurances, local taxes, and fees. Whenever you rent a car, the best tip is to book in advance to save money and get the best deal. Choose your pick-up and drop-off location and check the deal you like. Finish your booking by entering your credit card details, and you’ll receive a confirmation on how to get the car. Book a discounted, high-quality vehicle and start your adventure in Chad.

Car rental companies may require different documents before you can rent a car. Check the policies, terms, and conditions before you choose a car agreement. here are the rental requirements of car companies if you're a foreign driver:

• Local driver’s license
• International Driver’s Permit
• A valid copy of passport
• Credit card / Mastercard debit card

You need to complete the application form and give your credit card information. The booking can be paid by either debit or credit card, although most prefer a credit card to match the driver’s name. You need a credit card to block the deposit and make an advance payment. Once you have already completed the requirements and documents, you’ll receive a confirmation email on how you can get your car.

You can choose from different models, sizes, and types of cars depending on your budget, preference, and passenger number. You can also choose an automatic or manual transmission, and some offer air conditioning and satellite navigation.

• Economy car - It is a small vehicle that can fit up to four passengers. An economy car has a high fuel efficiency that is best for driving in Chad and its cities. It’s easy to go in areas with tight parking spaces and heavy traffic.
• Convertible car - If you crave an open view of the road, or you want to imagine the wind in your hair as you fly down the highway, then choose a convertible car. This sporty pleasure vehicle is best in summer.
• Minivan - Its dominant feature is its sliding door, and it offers more space and alternatives than SUV. It can also accommodate seven passengers, and you can fold the seats to make it a storage room.
• SUV - An SUV is more suited if you’re driving in rough terrain, while a minivan is not fit for that. It is more stylish and has excellent off-road capability. If you want to go to the mountains and steeper destinations, an SUV is the better choice for you.
• Electric car - This offers technology features that did not exist a few years ago. An electric vehicle has an engaging driving performance and all-electric driving range. It uses energy stored in rechargeable batteries that have lower emissions.
• Luxury cars - A luxury car increases comfort, status, quality, and performance than a regular vehicle. If you can afford to rent this car, you can check out BMW X3 or Mercedes E Class.

In N’Djamena, you can rent a car for about $30-$40 per day, but the car’s cost still depends on the car type and the length of time you’ll rent it. There are additional charges if the driver is below 25 or above 75 years old to cover extra insurance costs. Before you confirm your car rental reservation, ask for the summary of charges to see if there are other additional fees added. In most cases, there’s an extra charge when you return your car to a different location. You can ask your chosen car rental company if you have questions about driving in Chad.

Most car rental companies in Chad have a minimum age limit of 21 years old. However, age requirements may vary depending on the car company. But in most cases, car companies have young drivers' surcharges if the driver is 20 to 24 years old. Statistically speaking, young drivers cause more car accidents, so they need to pay the extra fee. Just read and check the rates details to know more information about additional charges.

You can determine the car insurance price depending on different factors and variables. But the key factors that affect the car insurance rates are the state coverage requirements, driver’s age and experience, and the car type and model. Car insurance companies collect information about you and your vehicle to know how much you need to pay for your insurance. Before you sign any car insurance contract, find the right car insurance for you.

The insurance companies get information on the vehicle, driver, and profitability factors. The car insurance companies get the year, make and model, and vehicle safety measures for the vehicle factors. The insurance companies look for your age, driving record, credit score, homeownership, and where you live for the driver’s aspect. Of course, the insurance companies need to give rates based on their profitability, payment plans, and state law. Be wise in getting your car insurance and make sure it’s worth it.

Whenever you rent a car, read the booking conditions as different car rental companies offer other insurances. You can have liability coverage, collision damage waiver, third-party liability protection, theft waiver, and uninsured motorist coverage. You can ask your car insurance company about different driving in Chad questions or types of insurance coverage:

• Liability Coverage - liability insurance pays for the medical costs, property damage, and other losses sustained in an accident you cause.
• Collision Coverage - It pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident or pays for any damage to your car.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage - If you are involved in an uninsured motorist accident, this insurance will pay for your expenses. If the driver who causes the accident does not have enough coverage to pay for the payment, this insurance will pay for the costs given in your policy limit.

The rules of the road protect you on the road and others as well. It is essential to know and follow Chad’s driving rules to keep everyone away from any accident or unfortunate events. Some restrictions may be different from your home country, so check the driving laws in the country.

Driving in Chad today is much better than driving in Chad yesterday since there are many government initiatives to keep the roads safe. Know the essential driving laws and regulations that will keep everyone safe. Remember that you need to carry a spare tire and sufficient drinking water whenever you travel by car. Here are other vital road rules in Chad.

In most countries globally, drunk driving is illegal as it is one of the common causes of car accidents. Whenever you drive in a foreign country, know the alcohol limit because it can be more restrictive than your home country. The legal blood alcohol limit in Chad is 0.08%, which is the permitted alcohol level typically. It is the same in most of the states in the US and also in England. The blood alcohol concentration level represents your percent of the blood concentrated with alcohol.

You cannot use your cellphone for text messaging and answering your calls if you are still driving. Driving while using cell phones is dangerous as it slows down the driver’s response to sudden changes in the road. The driver can miss a traffic light in an intersection or miss the pedestrian crossing in the street just because the driver uses the phone. Engaging in distracted driving behaviors increases the risk of accidents.

Know the essential traffic regulations and parking before driving in Chad so you can make your trip safe and avoid penalties and fines. In Chad’s largest cities, such as N’Djamena, Abeche, Kelo, Moundou, and Pala, you might find it hard to see a parking space, especially during the rush hours. The rush hours every Monday to Thursday are from 7 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 6 pm. If you’re going out on a Friday, the rush hours are from 7 am to 9 am, and 11 am to 12:30 pm.

Since there are no formal parking lots in the country, parking can be a general problem when driving in Chad today. Drivers are parking anywhere they want to-close to intersections and even obstructing sightlines of other road users. But that kind of parking practice is not allowed when blocking the driveway.

Wearing your seatbelt extends the time it takes for you to slow down in a collision. If you are not wearing your seatbelt, you could end up hitting the side window of your car. In Chad, the driver and all the passengers must need to wear seat belts. Always buckle up because your seatbelts protect your brain and your spinal cord, which are the two critical and vulnerable areas in your body. There are fatal consequences of not wearing one whenever you drive.

There are different driving standards in other countries. It’s important to know what type of cars the locals usually use when driving in Chad. You can use an automatic or manual car, depending on your driving skills or preference. But know that most of the car rental agencies in the capital city only have manual transmission cars.

The speed limit’s primary purpose is to notify the maximum speed drivers can go in specific areas and under certain circumstances. Once the drivers know their speed limit, it is easier to stop the vehicle if needed or react quickly to the roadway changes. In urban areas, the maximum speed limit is 60 km/h, while in rural areas, you can drive up to 110 km/h. Follow these speed limits to reduce the risk of getting into an accident.

One of the striking features of the roundabout in Chad is a small monument or abstract art piece. People used these features of roundabouts as landmarks when giving directions. The Chad driving directions in a roundabout are to drive straight onto it and drive at a slow speed. In the capital city N’Djamena, most of the roads are dual carriageways, and one of the unwritten rules is that the lane on the left is for more oversized vehicles, while the route on the right is for motorbikes.

Traffic signs are the ones you usually see installed on the road or the side of it. It guides drivers and road users on certain road information and potential danger while driving. Aside from following road signs, obey traffic lights. There are only a few traffic lights in the capital city, N’Djamena.

Drivers do not always have the right to give courtesy and respect to other drivers and road users to keep everybody safe. A right of way means who has the right to go first in the road when coming across a pedestrian lane or merging lanes.

So you may ask yourself: “When do I have the right of way on the road?” Here are some situations in which you need to remember the right of way.

• Arriving at an intersection - It’s dangerous to cross an intersection, especially when there’s no traffic enforcer or even stoplight. If another car comes at the junction the same time you arrive, the vehicle on the right side will have the right way. Take note that you must always give way to the cars inside the yellow box or the crossroads.
• Pedestrian crossing - When you are crossing a pedestrian lane, you always need to drive slow. The pedestrians still have the right to a pedestrian crossing as long as they are within the crosswalk. The traffic light already indicates that the pedestrian can already cross the road.
• Emergency vehicles on the road - You always need to give the right of way to emergency cars such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, which are sounding a siren or flashing red light. Pull to the edge of the roadway, or immediately find an open space to stop your vehicle and let them go ahead first.

Every country sets a minimum and maximum driving age at which a person may obtain a driver’s license so that there is an assurance that drivers are well-equipped before driving down the road. In Chad, the minimum driving age is 16 years old. If you drive under the legal age, you need to face a penalty and a fine. It’s essential to follow this Chad driving rule regarding the legal age because, based on statistics, young drivers are prone to be involved in accidents.

Driving in Chad means you need to be extra careful and observant because drivers often attempt to overtake slower traffic by moving into oncoming lanes. You need to remember that it is illegal to speed up when a car is overtaking you when overtaking. Reduce your speed or continue with the same rate and give the courtesy to the other drivers, the same courtesy you would expect from them. Move to the right side of the lane and help others to pass safely.

Remember that overtaking is not safe when the incoming car is too close or when you intend to turn immediately. You can’t overtake when the maneuver would have to be in an intersection, a curve, or a no-passing zone such as a hill. Just stay in your Chad driving zone and always prioritize your safety and think about others as well. Be responsible enough to drive and to keep the roads safe for everyone.

You might be wondering if the driving side is on the left or the right side. In Chad, the traffic moves on the right side of the road, so the drivers must yield to traffic on their right. Sit on the left side of your car and have your gear stick on the right, so you know you are driving on the road’s right side.

Remember all these Chad’s driving rules to keep everyone safe on the road. It is necessary to protect the lives and property of people. You can’t choose what laws you will obey, but you need to follow every road rule and regulation crafted for everyone’s safety. Take extra precaution in driving, especially if it’s your first time driving in Chad.

Driving in Chad can bring many possibilities on your way. You can face unfamiliar and even stressful situations that will challenge you. In such scenarios, it’s best to have a presence of mind and to deal with them calmly. It is also essential that you know Chad’s driving zone and the emergency numbers you need to call.

Imagine driving down the highway when suddenly your car breaks down. It will not just cause panic in you, but also invoke fear and stress. When an unfortunate event happens, have a presence of mind and move your vehicle to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights and put reflectorized triangles to let other drivers behind you know that you are in trouble. Hang a white cloth out of your window to let the police officers know you need help.

It is vital to wait inside your car with the doors locked for safety concerns. It’s too dangerous to go outside to ask for help as vehicles drive at a maximum speed on a highway. Never attempt to cross a multi-lane high-speed roadway. Ask for help without going outside or compromising your safety. You can also call the emergency numbers or roadside assistance provider. There are vehicle repair facilities that could help you fix your car. Sometimes, there are uniformed police officers who regularly patrol highways and major roads.

When you are in a foreign country, it’s easy to get lost during your road trip, even if you have a map. The next option is to ask local officials or local people nearby. Asking for directions to locals can be quite hard, especially if you are driving in Chad and only understand the English language. It’s best to know the essential Arabic words and phrases whenever you need to ask for directions so that the locals can point you to the right landmarks and location. Here are the things you can ask the locals if you’re lost.

• Kīf aṣl ili?….(Kayfa asel ela) - How do I get?...
• Aīn aqrb?…. (Ayana aqrab) - Where is the nearest..?
• Hal haza hwa al- tariq ela?... - Is this the way to …..?

• Al-mstšfi (Almostashfa) - the hospital
• Al-mṭār (Almatar) - the airport
• Al-sūq (Al souq) - the mall
• Qsm al-šrṭẗ (Qesm alshortah) - the police station
• Al-mtḥf (Al mathaf) - the museum
• Al-fndq (Al fondok) - the hotel

• ʿḏrāً , aīn al-mṭār ? (Cothran, ayna almtar ?) - Excuse me, where is the airport?
• aīn aqrb mstšfi ? (Ayana aqrab mostashafa?) - Where is the nearest Hospital?
• hl hḏā al-ṭrīq al-i al-sūq/ālmūl ? (Hal iatha al tareeq ela al souq/al mall) - Is this the way to the mall?

It can be quite hard driving in Chad, and English is the only language you know. Learn more about the basic Arabic and French language so you can communicate with other people.

In Chad, the police checkpoints are standard to ensure the people and their safety and security conditions. Maintain vigilance anywhere you go. You need to show your passport, driving license, International Driving Permit, and vehicle registration documents at checkpoints. You don’t need a Chad driving license if you’re a tourist. Take note that only a few police officers speak English. Most of them speak French and Chadian Arabic. Here are the things you need to do when approaching a checkpoint:

• Turn on your car’s interior light so the local authorities can identify you as non-threat
• Slowly approach the checkpoint and do not bypass it not give the wrong signal
• Show your legal documents when asked upon
• Follow the directions provided by the local authorities

Aside from the driving etiquette mentioned above, it is essential to know what to do in emergencies. Of course, no one wants to be involved in any accidents, but it’s better to be ready in any situation than be sorry. Remember, knowledge is power. You need to equip yourself with relevant information on what to do in certain conditions.

Even if it’s a minor one, getting involved in an accident can be stressful and overwhelming. It’s hard to think rationally about what to do next when you are panicking, so the important thing is to have a presence of mind. No one wants to get into a car crash, but knowing what to do can save lives and reduce injuries. Wrong actions can make a bad situation worse.

In the event of an accident, immediately do these things:

• If possible, pull the vehicle to the side of the road and make sure you pull off in a safe place
• Assure if everyone is okay and check if the passengers appear to be hurt. Call an ambulance if anyone is injured and call the police.
• If you are not injured, assess the damage to the car and take pictures.
• Never leave the scene of the accident and collect as much information with the other party. Get the name, contact number, address plate number, model of the car, and car insurance of other driver and even the witnesses
• Once the authorities arrived at the scene, give them accurate information about what happened and go to the nearest police station to file an accident report
• Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible

Here are the emergency numbers you can call in case of an accident:

• Ambulance - 235-2251-4242
• Emergency - 235-6627-7090
• Fire - 23518
• Police - 23517

It’s essential to know Chad’s driving conditions to prepare you for the possibilities on the road. When driving in Chad, go with extreme caution as the country has poor road conditions and poorly lighted streets. Some traffic lights in the cities are not functional. However, the government invested in several major road projects over the years. It’s important to wear seatbelts and other safety equipment to reduce the risks of getting involved in an accident.

In the 2018 World Health Organization Report on road traffic accidents, Chad reached 3,806 accident deaths. In 2016, the estimated number of road traffic deaths was 3,990. The leading cause of road accidents is drinking and driving, high-speed driving, and poor road conditions. That’s why the government launched strategies and programs to put all the measures needed to save lives and enhance post-crash care.

The standard vehicles in Chad are economy cars. If you travel outside the capital city, you will see other four-wheeled light vehicles, motorized two and three-wheelers, heavy trucks, and even buses. If you are on the road together with heavy vehicles, it’s essential to leave a safe distance and watch for blind spots. Trucks and buses are heavier, and as a result, they take longer to slow down and stop, so always give room to move.

Chad’s road infrastructure is low even by comparison with other developing countries. The government ensures adequate funding for road maintenance through the collection of tolls on the new roads. There are vital road links in Chad, one runs north from N’Djamena around Lake Chad to the Niger border, and another runs east to Abéché, Chad’s fourth-largest city beyond to Sudan, and on the Red Sea.

About 40,000 kilometers of the country’s road network, only 300 kilometers are well-maintained, another 300 kilometers are for pathways, and 3,100 kilometers are dirt roads. In the capital city N’djamena, only the main roads are paved. Although there are government initiatives to put up adequate road infrastructures, the surfaced highways are still limited in Chad.

Some drivers follow and obey the driving laws and road rules in any country, and some don’t. There are erratic drivers, particularly in cities and rural areas. Be extra careful when driving in Chad, especially in the capital city, as you will share the roads with motorists and pedestrians. Be alert when you are going with other heavy vehicles and transport trucks. Be attentive and leave enough space to change lanes.

Some drivers will overtake you, so when this happens, just retain your car speed and let them pass the road. In rural areas, you may find livestock crossing the streets. It’s best to slow down your driving and let the livestock cross the road first. You can also check other driving in Chad reviews on the internet to know how the locals drive and how you can adjust to their driving culture.

When traveling by car, always make sure you wear your seat belts, have sufficient drinking water bottles, and always carry a spare tire. Aside from the mentioned road conditions, it is essential to know other safety precautions and relevant information to drive safely and smoothly.

Most countries use a Kph or kilometers per hour as a unit of measurement for speed. As of now, only about 9% of the countries globally use mph or miles per hour. Chad uses Kph to measure the speed limit. It’s important to know that because every country sets a specific speed limit depending on the area and the type of cars that drive on the road. You must know and observe speed limits in Chad.

In Chad, the streets are not well-lit, and other drivers operate without lighting headlights, so it’s best if you refrain from driving at night. Watch for motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians as they may not be visible until you are near them. The roads are often impassable during the rainy season from June to October. On the other hand, when it is dry season, dust clouds reduce road visibility.

As a driver, you need to be particularly observant on the road. You have all the necessary things in case of emergencies and accidents. Follow driving laws and road rules to keep everyone safe.

Aside from traveling, there are many things you can do in Chad. You can find a job here and apply as a driver or tourist guide. If this country also leaves a deep mark on your heart, you can apply for a temporary and permanent residency and enjoy a whole new life here. There are a lot of opportunities that may come on your door.

You can drive as a tourist in the country as long as you have your local driving license, International Driving Permit, passport, and car document and registration. If you are not confident enough to drive, you can enroll in a driving school and have your Chad driving lessons.

You can work in Chad as a driver if you have the experience and the skills. The average salary for a delivery driver in the country is around $249 per month. On top of that, there’s also housing, transport, and other benefits. You can also be a driver at the center for community and health development international or work as an auto parts delivery driver. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid Chad driving license, and the ability to lift load and deliver merchandise.

But remember, before you can work as a driver in Chad, you need to secure your work visa permit. The government agency can process your Chad work visas for four business days, but you can pay a rush fee if you need it immediately. You need to complete the requirements needed by your employer in the country:

• Original signed passport
• Completed application form
• One passport-size photo
• Letter of invitation from your company explaining your purpose of travel
• Proof of length of stay and accommodation
• Indication of who is financially responsible for the applicant
• Airplane tickets
• Certificate showing a yellow fever vaccination

Do you want to earn while traveling? If your answer is yes, well, this is good news for you. The most rewarding way to see the world and learn about Chad’s history and culture is to be a travel guide. Before you become one, you need to be an expert in Chad’s destination, culture, and language. Many organizations that employ travel guides require them to complete extensive training to learn the country’s necessary skills and information.

As a travel guide, you need to know the history of the famous landmarks and the country, and you can easily communicate with a group of tourists. If you think you are ready to undergo the training and have a passion or interest to learn history, culture, arts, and architecture, you can apply as a travel guide in Chad. You could gain a whole new level of experience and insight into the place you love.

If you want a new life and think Chad opened new opportunities for you, you can apply for residency. A foreign citizen who wanted to live in Chad must obtain a Chad residency visa first. The best thing you could do is call the embassy or the diplomatic mission office to ask for the complete set of requirements for your Chad visa. You usually need to have a valid passport, outgoing airplane tickets and itineraries, and yellow fever certification.

Besides working and applying for residency in Chad, many volunteer travel opportunities are waiting for you. If you are passionate or interested in advocacy works and want to promote an inclusive society, you can volunteer in different organizations.

Several volunteer programs provide economic support, education, and capacity building to help you gain more knowledge and skills. Each volunteering opportunity is a different experience, but you will work with various government and non-government organizations, civil societies, local communities, and partners. You will also have a chance to work on environment and wildlife conservation and economic empowerment.

If you want to travel to a country that will leave you out of the comfort zone, you must visit Chad. You can go to the Sahara Desert’s unique terrain, see the beautiful wildlife in the Zakouma National Park, or just relax in Lake Chad. Having a vast number of natural treasures is the greatest reward in traveling to the country. Driving in Chad means you get to explore all these stunning places.

Chad’s capital and largest city, N’Djamena, is a blend of ancient and modern cultures which almost depicts two different cities. The eastern part of the town has native communities cramped in alleyways, while the western region has commercial buildings and colonial architectures. The city boasts a beautiful blend of historical and contemporary norms. In addition to that, you can experience the nightlife here by going to the bars.

If you are from N’Djamena International Airport, it will only take you less than 15 minutes to go to the National Museum if you take the Rue de la Gendarmerie route. Here’s your driving guide.

1. Head southwest.

2. Turn left on the first roundabout.

3. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Rue de la Gendarmerie.

4. Take the 1st exit and then a slight right.

5. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Djamena-Moundou

There are many things you can do in the capital city. Some of the places you can explore and the things you can do are the following:

1. Go to the National Museum of Chad

It is officially known as Musée National N'Djamena, established on October 6, 1962. Initially, it was near Avenue Felix Eboue, but after a few years, they transferred to an old town hall near Place de l’Independence. The four exhibits range from prehistory, protohistory, archives, and folk traditions and arts. There are also many artifacts such as stone heads, human masks, and bone tools.

2. Take a grand tour of the Grand Mosque N’Djamena

The Grand Mosque N’Djamena is the central element in the city as it is the place of spiritual unity and the common area for the locals to get together. The mosque consists of schools, lecture halls, and a library. You can witness the Islam worshippers in this sacred building praying. Take the time to reflect on your spiritual journey.

3. Watch a movie in Cinema le Normandie Tchad

If you want to watch different films, you can go to Cinema Le Normandie Tchad. Although most films are in French, there are movies with versions of their original language once a week. You can watch action films and even retransmission of football matches. There is also a nice restaurant near the place, so you can try out some local cuisines after watching the movies.

4. Party in L-Olympia Bar

Get the most of your holiday and enjoy some nightlife at L-Olympia Bar. Go together with your friends for a night of dancing and a good time. Take part in social interactions and get to know local people, their history, and their personal stories. Just enjoy the music and the company of friends.

5. Buy local products in N’Djamena Central Market

The city’s central point is the Grand Marche or the Grand Market, where you can find anything you are looking for in one place. You can find it at Avenue Charles de Gaulle. Check out the local food, clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and hand-made products. Take the time to interact with the locals.

The city’s central point is the Grand Marche or the Grand Market, where you can find anything you are looking for in one place. You can find it at Avenue Charles de Gaulle. Check out the local food, clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and hand-made products. Take the time to interact with the locals.

You’ll find the Zakouma National Park in the south-eastern part of Chad, which covers roughly 3,000 square kilometers of land. It’s truly a refuge for wildlife and the prime location of safari. You can see diverse species of birds and mammals and different protected animals to avoid poaching. You can also go to the Tinga Camp to accommodate up to 490 people and offer the park’s best game viewing area.

The government had several rehabilitation initiatives to protect the park and its flora and fauna. You can see large herds of lions, giraffes, primates, and elephants roaming around. The best months to go in the park are from November to May, gathering around the watering holes. You can also eat in different hotels and restaurants around the park.

There are unnamed roads you will encounter if you're going to Zakouma. You need to have your skills in talking to locals so that you can follow the directions. Also, you need to pay toll fees in various roadblocks along your way, so make sure you have some cash in the local currency. There are three entrances to the park so that you can explore different Chad driving routines. It will take you about 4 hours to go from Haze to the park to give you the guide.

1. Head west and follow the unnamed road.

2. Turn right at Grand Mosque.

3. Turn left to reach Zakouma.

Safari adventure awaits you here in Zakouma National Park. Here are some activities you can try while in the park.

1. See the different animals roaming in the park

Zakouma is the home to Africa's Kordofan giraffe, thousands of birds, particularly the black-drowned cranes, and different animals on the brink of extinction. The sheer volume of wildlife is breathtaking. Zakouma National Park is a must-see safari destination looking for an authentic Chad experience.

2. Try horseback riding

One of the activities you can try is horse-back riding which the management can organize for the park visitors. The park has undergone horse management and improvement in terms of training and horse care. Most Chadians know how to ride horses since it’s an intrinsic part of their culture. It is a new experience to witness nature's beauty while riding a horse.

3. Join guided safari tours

You can join safari group tours. It’s much better if you join the group tour since your travel guide has more knowledge about the animals’ history and locations and can give you a worthwhile experience of your wilderness travel. Just take note that when you go during the dry season, the temperature can reach 40 degrees Celsius, so it’s better to have a lot of bottled water.

4. Go to Tinga Camp, Camp Nomade, and Camp Salamat

Tinga Camp is on the banks of the Tinga rivers surrounded by tamarind trees. It is the best place to go to have a viewing area of the park and explore the peaceful location. There are 20 chalets, and each room has en-suite facilities, and they offer game drivers and night drives in open vehicles. Relax and have a fantastic view of the surrounding bush, birds, and nature's beauty.

5. Eat near the hotels and restaurants

After your day safari tour or camping, you can try out the mix of Chadian and Western cuisine and bush dinners. There are many fully equipped restaurants and bars that will accommodate you. Savor each of the local food and interact with Chadians. Enjoy your stay in the national park and relax.

Abéché is the capital of the Ouaddai Region and the fourth largest city in Chad. As an ancient city, you can find many sultan’s tombs, mosques, palace ruins, fortresses, and other remnants of the past. It is the country’s ethnographic and cultural place as it maintains its oriental beauty and is also an essential cattle-raising complex. You’ll encounter many tribespeople walking near the surrounding desert. The city has its airport, which has flights to the capital city.

If you are from Asnet, Chad, you can quickly go to Abeche in less than 3 hours if you take the Rue N’Djamena route. There is a major road connecting the capital city N’Djamena to Abéché. Here’s your guide:

1. Head east and continue onto Rue N'Djamena.

2. Turn left to stay on Rue N'Djamena.

3. Slight right toward Rue N'Djaména.

4. Continue straight ahead to arrive at your destination.

There are many things you can do in the fourth largest city in the country. As home to Darfurian refugees and nomadic people, you can learn more about Chad’s culture and tradition. Here are some of the things you can do in Abéché.

1. Stay in Hotel Caesar

The hotel has 14 fully air-conditioned rooms, a small office, and amenities. You can order breakfast, lunch, dinner, and they can serve you delicious local cuisines. You can also adorn the beautiful murals and paintings along the hallway and inside your room.

2. Go to the museum and learn about the city’s history

You can always visit Abéché Museum for free. It has a collection of traditional objects such as ornaments, leather bags, ensembles, pottery jars, and nomads’ storage. There are also photographs with an array of genealogy. On the final panel, you can see the sultan’s palaces and their locations. It’s exciting to know more about the history of the place and the people.

3. Buy local items and food in the grand market

Abéché market opens every day and attracts a daily crowd of customers and traders from the nearby cities. You can quietly walk in the alleys and bargain some products, and you can also chat with different traders. ysome vegetables, fruits, meat, and fresh fish. There is also an area of traders where you can buy pottery, jewelry, and ornaments.

4. Try out different food in the restaurants

Try Assoukarya, a restaurant that serves Chadian meals. There are salads, omelets, avocado, and refreshing juices. The friendly staff will welcome you and explain different places you can go to within the city. You can also go to Restaurant D’Abéché and try exotic dishes such as foofta, belfrone, and machi.

5. Visit the mosques in the city

Before you go to Mosquée d'Abéché, remember the vital etiquette before going inside the mosque. Show respect by taking off your shoes before entering, wearing proper clothes, and turning off your mobile. For women, you need to cover your hair or wear a hijab. Don’t eat or drink inside a mosque.

Ennedi Region is the home of remarkable rock formations, dunes, canyons, arches, and the ever-changing landscape. The reason to visit here is the nearby terrain of the Sahara desert. There are jagged canyons and stone arches that are natural works of art. It’s kind of hard to survive in the area without sufficient provisions because there are Nile crocodiles and gazelles in the place.

In Chad, there are unnamed roads you can encounter. It’s best to ask the locals in the right directions since the streets can be tricky since it’s quite hard to know the Chad driving directions. You also need to explore the Sahara just to be in the Ennedi Region.

1. From Faya-Largeau Airport, head northwest via an unnamed road.

2. Sharp right to Sharp right Faya-Largeau.

3. Delve into explorations to the Sahara.

Unforgettable adventures are waiting for you in the Ennedi Region. Although the road directions can be tricky, you can check out different Chad driving videos and driving guides if you feel somehow lost along your way.

1. Go to the Sahara Desert

The place is barren, and the terrain is flat. You can find stone pinnacles and cathedral-like formations, camels and crocodiles trying to quench their thirst. You can also join the Sahara guide to explore the stunning and unique little-known corner of the world. Traverse the sandy area by four-wheel-drive vehicle. You can even camp at night and see the beautiful night sky.

2. Visit the Guelta d’Archei

The most renowned canyon in the Sahara desert is Guelta d’Archei. It is in the Ennedi Plateau near Fada town. It is the tallest spot in the area, and it offers a panoramic scenery of the place. You need some travel guide or Chad driving instructor to help you search the site.

3. Check out the Lakes of Ounianga

In the Sahara desert, you can find the Lakes of Ounianga, which consists of 18 lakes supplied by underground fossil fuel. This lake that is about 20 square kilometers, is the country’s sole UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some lakes have freshwater that can support life, while some are salty due to the high evaporation rates. The lake has low levels since it only receives 2 mm rainfall per year.

Check out the different Chad driving videos and explorations to get an idea of how beautiful the country is. Do not forget to bring your International Driving Permit to have your road trip and adventures fully. Driving in Chad today is even better than driving in Chad yesterday.