N'Djamena
N'Djamena is the capital of Chad. It is by far the country's largest city, with a population of 1 million people. It lies directly on the border of Cameroon, and is on the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers. The city has been at the centre of many heated rebellions and revolts, and in February 2008 was entered by rebel troops.
Get in
The only flight from a non-African city is from Paris (by Air France). Destinations in Africa include Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, Tripoli, Cotonou, Bangui, Lagos, Casablanca via Niamey and Khartoum. Historically, the main entry to the city was by boat up the Chari and Logone rivers, but today this is rarely done. The city has no railway links.
The rudimentary 1 N'Djamena International Airport is located slightly north of city centre.
Get around
Taxis
During the day, taxis charge 3,000 CFA. At night, taxi fares increase to 5,000 CFA. Agree on the price before you step in the car. Pay when you reach the your destination. It's your responsibility to have exact change.
Moto-Taxis
Fares range from 250 CFA to 1,000 CFA, depending on the distance. Do negotiate. Only take moto-taxis that are from official taxi stations, usually on the corners of major intersections.
See
As a Muslim city, there are many mosques to see in the city, as well as a cathedral and the presidential palace. And do not forget the views across the river. Sunset can be quite spectacular.
- 1 Chad National Museum. The national museum of Chad, containing many artifacts from its history. Some pieces are lost due to looting during the last civil war.
Do
Go shopping in the local markets, even if only for an afternoon snack, that are scattered throughout the city. This lets you experience the everyday life and culture of Chad, and also helps contributes to the country's poor economy.
- Avenue Charles de Gaulle, Avenue Charles de Gaulle. With many colonial houses and embassies, this road is a reminder of the French colonials days.
Buy
N'Djamena was ranked as the 8th most expensive city in the world for American expatriates according to Mercer's Cost of Living Ranking for 2018.
Eat
- 1 Cote Jardin, Rue Idriss Miskine, ☏ +235 63 59 82 12, +235 66 40 67 16, cotejardin.ndj@gmail.com. Tu–Su 11:00–23:30.
Drink
Chad is a predominantly Islamic country, so do not expect alcohol to be as widely accepted as in some other countries.
Sleep
- 1 [dead link] Mercure N'djaména le Chari, 396 Rue du Colonel Moll, fax: +235 252 2261. One of the most luxurious hotels in the city. €200-470.
- 2 [dead link] Ledger Plaza N’Djamena, Quartier Diguel Est, ☏ +235 22 53 1253. From €245.
- 3 [dead link] Novotel N'Djamena La Tchadienne, Avenue Ouldadah.
Stay healthy
The following medical facilities have a decent reputation:
- L'Hôpital Général de Référence National de N'djaména
- L'Hôpital de la Liberté (Hopital Chinois)
- L'Hôpital de Walia
- Clinique Sao
- Clinique Providence
- Clinique la Rose
- Cabinet La Samaritaine
- Cabinet Médical Espoir
- Cabinet Médical Artine
- Cabinet Dentaire Arbre de Vie
- Cabinet Dentaire Acropolis
Cope
Embassies
Canada, Rue 5041, Porte 964, Quartier Moursal, ☏ +235 2253 4280.
Egypt, Rue de 40m – quartier Klemate, ☏ +235 2251 0972, fax: +235 2251 1474.
United States, Ave Felix Eboue; B.P. 413, ☏ +235 251-62-11, fax: +235 251-56-54.
Go next
Gaoui is a pretty village lying 10 km north east of N'Djamena. It is said to have been the capital of the Sao civilisation and is now known for its traditional architecture and pottery manufacture. It is also home to a museum.
N'Djamena has the only international airport in Chad. Leaving the main city may be dangerous, as high levels of civil unrest are being experienced in the country. Travelling to the Tibesti Mountains is not safe, either, as this is a militarily sensitive zone. As in all third world countries, stay safe and have caution in your actions.