Chad

• Military and police checkpoint bribery is endemic throughout Chad, with security forces regularly demanding unofficial payments from travelers. Carry small denomination bills separately and remain polite but firm when declining unreasonable requests for payments.
• Systematic overcharging of foreigners occurs in markets, restaurants, hotels, and for transportation services. Prices may be inflated 2-10 times normal rates. Always negotiate prices in advance, ask locals for fair price guidance, and consider having a trusted local guide handle transactions.

• Malaria prophylaxis is absolutely essential year-round throughout Chad, as the disease is endemic with high transmission rates. Consult a travel medicine specialist at least 4-6 weeks before departure to begin appropriate antimalarial medication and bring extra supplies as medications are unavailable locally.
• Only drink bottled or properly purified water, avoiding ice cubes, fresh juices, and beverages from questionable sources. Water-borne diseases including cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis are common risks throughout the country.
• Medical facilities are extremely limited with only basic care available in N'Djamena and virtually no medical services in rural areas. Carry a comprehensive medical kit, ensure your travel insurance includes medical evacuation coverage, and consider postponing travel if you have any serious health conditions.

• Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Chad and you must present a valid international certificate of vaccination. This requirement is strictly enforced at all entry points and the vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel.
• Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are strongly recommended due to poor sanitation and food safety standards throughout the country. Meningitis vaccination is also advised, particularly during the dry season when outbreaks are more common in the meningitis belt region.
• Malaria prophylaxis medication is essential and should be started before arrival, continued throughout your stay, and for the prescribed period after departure. Consult a travel medicine specialist to determine the most appropriate antimalarial regimen for Chad's drug-resistant strains.

• The Ennedi Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features spectacular sandstone formations, natural arches, and ancient rock art dating back thousands of years. However, access requires extensive security planning and is only possible with experienced guides and proper permits. The area offers unparalleled geological beauty but demands respect for its fragile desert ecosystem.
• Zakouma National Park represents one of Central Africa's conservation success stories, with elephant populations recovering from near extinction to over 500 individuals through dedicated anti-poaching efforts. The park also hosts lions, giraffes, and diverse bird species, but visits require advance arrangements through park authorities and security escorts.
• Chad's incredible cultural diversity spans over 200 ethnic groups, each with distinct languages, traditions, and customs. Sara people dominate the south with Christian influences, while northern regions feature Arab and other Muslim communities. Engaging respectfully with local communities offers profound insights into ancient traditions, though always through proper cultural intermediaries.

• Never travel anywhere in Chad without comprehensive security arrangements including vetted local guides, communication equipment, and coordination with security forces. Independent travel outside N'Djamena is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal due to armed groups, banditry, and lack of emergency services.
• Photographing military installations, government buildings, security checkpoints, or personnel is strictly prohibited and can result in detention, confiscation of equipment, and serious legal consequences. Always ask permission before photographing people and be aware that some communities have cultural objections to photography.
• Avoid any discussions of politics, government criticism, or sensitive ethnic/religious topics, as Chad has experienced significant internal conflicts and tensions remain high. Focus conversations on cultural topics, daily life, or your interest in learning about local traditions while remaining respectful of different perspectives.

Chad's limited service sector means tipping opportunities are rare outside N'Djamena's few hotels and restaurants. When services are available, small tips of 500-1000 CFA francs (approximately $1-2 USD) are appreciated for hotel staff, restaurant servers, and guides. In rural areas, tipping may be less common or understood, but small gestures of appreciation are always welcome. For multi-day guides or drivers who provide essential services, consider more substantial gratuities of 5000-10000 CFA francs per day. Always tip in local currency and be discreet to avoid creating security risks or drawing unwanted attention to yourself or service providers.

Dress modestly throughout Chad, with particularly conservative requirements in northern Muslim-majority regions. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, avoiding shorts except in private hotel areas. Women should dress very conservatively with loose-fitting clothing covering arms, legs, and neckline, and should carry a headscarf for entering mosques or conservative areas. In southern Christian regions, dress codes are slightly more relaxed but modesty remains important. Business settings require formal attire. Avoid revealing clothing, tight-fitting garments, or culturally inappropriate symbols or slogans that might cause offense.

Chad is predominantly Muslim in the north (Arab and other ethnic groups) and Christian in the south (primarily Sara and related groups), with traditional African religions practiced alongside both. Northern regions follow conservative Islamic customs including Friday prayers, Ramadan fasting, and strict gender interaction rules. Respect mosque etiquette by removing shoes, dressing modestly, and asking permission before entering. In Christian areas, Sunday services are important community events. Both communities may observe dietary restrictions - Muslims avoid pork and alcohol, while some Christians may have specific fasting periods. Always show respect for religious practices and avoid scheduling meetings during prayer times or religious holidays.