When to go
The best time to visit Chad is
winter, and in particular the months of December and January: the sky is clear, even though sometimes the north-east wind, the
Harmattan, can raise dust, creating a typical haze. During the day, it is very hot in the south, but nights are generally cool, while in the north, it can get cold at night, while the temperature becomes pleasant during the day.
Already in February, the temperature rises significantly in the south, approaching 40 °C (104 °F).
What to pack
In
winter: during the day, bring long, light and loose-fitting clothing of natural fabric (cotton or linen), especially in the south, where it is hot even in winter; a desert turban for the wind-borne sand and dust, sunglasses (even graduated instead of contact lenses), a jacket and a sweater for the evening, and desert boots or sandals. For the Tibesti and for nights outdoors in the desert, warm clothes, a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat.
In
summer: for the desert, bring loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, light and long shirts and pants, a wide-brimmed hat, a light scarf, sunglasses, comfortable and breathable shoes, and a desert turban. A sleeping bag and a sweater for overnight stays outdoors. For the Tibesti, at high altitudes, a jacket and a sweater. For N'Djamena and the south, tropics-friendly and light clothing, an umbrella or a light raincoat for the rain showers, and a light sweatshirt.
It's better for women to avoid shorts and miniskirts.
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Chad