9 Days | 8 Nights - N'Djamena & Zakouma National Park
Have you even heard of Zakouma? Well here is the opportunity to discover it for yourself. Spend time in one of the most important protected areas in Africa, and one that few will ever have the chance to visit. We’ve chosen Zakouma National Park in Chad as our expedition destination in 2026.
It is a place a little bit off most people’s radar and that’s partly why we love it. Since the brilliant conservation organisation African Parks took over management in 2010, the park has gone from strength to strength. It’s positively brimming with wildlife, yet remains so unknown that the surface hasn’t even been scratched. On this expedition, you’ll be able to marvel at huge herds of elephant that have been brought back from the brink of extinction and enjoy the extraordinary game viewing and birdlife, as well as meet the area’s nomadic communities.
You’ll fly into N’djamena, the capital city of Chad, spending the first night staying at Hotel Le Residence. N’djamena is a fascinating destination. Even a visit to the local markets and restaurants is a cultural and visual sensation that will be remembered for a long time.
Fly 800 kilometres east, in a Cessna Caravan, to Zakouma National Park. The wonderfully named Camp Nomade is the base for this expedition. It’s a small, tented camp that is erected for three months of the year, and stored away for the rainy season. It’s also owned and managed by Africa Parks, and the proceeds from each guest’s safari goes directly towards the management of the park.
The tents are modelled on the traditional camps of the Sehel region and filled with vibrant, locally-woven carpets, nomadic bells, and burnished brassware. You’ll sleep underneath the veil of a black mosquito net and wake up to 360-degree game viewing straight from your bed. With a private bathroom, bucket shower, plenty of hot water, and efficient, long-drop loos, your stay will be really comfortable. This is a no frills camp and just perfect for the adventurous.
Every day on safari at Zakouma will be a unique experience tailored to your interests and the wildlife sightings of the day. With 66 mammal species, including the Kordofan giraffe, and predators like lion, leopard, and wild dog, there is always something exciting to see. The park is also home to thousands of buffalo, kudu, hartebeest, and a variety of antelope. Birdwatchers will be amazed by the 388 species of birds, including 40 raptors and stunning carmine bee-eaters. Don’t miss the incredible flocks of red-billed queleas that will leave you in awe.
You’ll fly back to N’djamena for a final night before heading home. Many people choose to combine a week in Chad, with a week in next door Ethiopia – an excellent idea if ever we saw one!
Zakouma National Park is best visited during the dry season, from November to April. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and this time of year is great for viewing animals that congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. During the wet season, from May to October, many parts of Zakouma become inaccessible due to flooding. Wildlife is also more dispersed during this time, making sightings less frequent. However, the wet season is a great time for birdwatching, as many migratory bird species can be spotted in the park.
Child Policy: Please enquire with reservations.
Disabled Access: Sadly, this trip is not equipped for disabled access.
Wi-Fi: There is limited Wifi available at Camp Nomade.
Excluded: Expenses of a personal nature, such as telephone expenses & shopping; premium brand drinks; drinks while staying at La Residence Hotel; tips and gratuities; fully comprehensive travel insurance; additional activities; scheduled flights and related taxes; Visa fees where relevant; cancellation, baggage, medical, and evacuation insurance.
Be inspired by our other suggested safari packages below and remember, all our packages are totally flexible and can be adjusted to suit you.
