Chad

Travel tips for Chad: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cash is essential. Chad is an entirely cash-based economy where daily life relies on XAF notes, as cards are rarely accepted outside upscale hotels in N'Djamena and ATMs are often unreliable, meaning travelers must bring euros or US dollars to exchange for all daily expenses.

Try the food

  • Boule: A dense, doughy ball made from millet or sorghum flour, traditionally used to scoop up savory stews.
  • Daraba: A hearty stew combining okra, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and greens in a rich peanut butter sauce.
  • Capitaine: Fresh Nile perch caught from local rivers, typically grilled or fried and served with a spicy tomato sauce.

Say it in French

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Please: S'il vous plaît
  • Excuse me: Excusez-moi
  • How much is this?: C'est combien ?
  • The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
  • Yes / No: Oui / Non
  • Goodbye: Au revoir

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / D / E / F
Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency
17 (Police), 2251-4242 (Ambulance), 18 (Fire)
SIM tip
Purchase a local Airtel or Moov SIM card at N'Djamena International Airport upon arrival, ensuring you have your passport for mandatory registration.

Etiquette

Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and passing items, as the left hand is considered unclean in Chadian culture.

Airports in Chad