Chad: What to Know Before You Go

Cuisine Highlights

• Boule, millet porridge rolled into balls and eaten with various sauces; the daily staple of most Chadians regardless of region or ethnic group
• Daraba, a thick sauce made from okra, tomatoes, and dried fish or meat; poured over boule or rice; the defining Chadian flavor
• Ful medames, spiced fava beans eaten for breakfast across the Arab-influenced north; a simple, nutritious morning meal
• Chadal milk, fresh camel or goat milk consumed across pastoral communities; essential for nutrition in the Sahel and desert regions

Traditions & Festivals

• Gerewol Festival, the Wodaabe nomadic people hold an extraordinary beauty pageant for men; young men compete in elaborate face paint and costumes to attract women's attention
• Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha, major Islamic holidays in a predominantly Muslim country; markets and cities are animated with celebrations
• Lake Chad cultural heritage, the lake has supported human civilization for 12,000 years; the Kanem-Bornu Empire was one of Africa's great medieval kingdoms centered here

Language & Communication

French and Arabic are the two official languages. Over 120 languages are spoken.

Key Arabic phrase: "As-salamu alaykum" means hello. Chad faces significant security challenges from Boko Haram in the Lake Chad basin and instability along several borders, most Western governments advise against travel to most of the country; only N'Djamena may be considered with caution.

Consult current advisories before any visit.

Cultural Etiquette

• Chad is majority Muslim, dress modestly and be respectful of Islamic practices, especially in the north; alcohol is available in N'Djamena but not appropriate everywhere
• Greetings are elaborate and important, take time for full exchanges; asking about family and health is mandatory before any business
• The Wodaabe and other pastoral peoples hold traditional values around hospitality, accept what is offered and show genuine gratitude
• Photography of military and government installations is strictly prohibited; ask before photographing people