Chad: When to Go

Because many of the roads in Chad aren't tarred, they become impossibly impassable in the wet season (June to September), so it's best to travel when it's dry. Between March and May, the average daily temperature of 45°C (113°F) also makes travel a little uncomfortable. From December to mid-February, the days are dry and warm and the nights quite cool, making this part of the year probably the best time to head to Chad.

Weather

If bountiful year-round sunshine and arid 40°C (104°F) days have a certain appeal then look no further than Saharan Chad. If the majestic images that the Sahara conjures up are too tempting but you'd prefer more friendly conditions, try the southern part of Chad between November and February.

There are three distinct climatic zones. In the tropical south temperatures usually range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), but can rise to 40°C (104°F) just before the rains. The centre, where N'Djaména and Lake Chad are located, is a Sahelian blend of scrub and desert where prerains temperatures can rise to over 45°C (113°F). The arid north forms part of the Sahara Desert and includes the Tibesti Mountains, which rise to the peak of Emi Koussi (3415m), the highest point in the Sahara.