Darfurians refugees in Eastern Chad Photo by European Commission via Flickr Creative Commons

All US citizens will need a visa and a passport that is valid for at least six months with at least two empty pages to visit Chad. There are single-entry visas or multiple-entry visas, good for three months. Adults and single parents who are traveling with children must have documentation that they are the legal guardian or parents. Those in Chad for a connecting flight do not need to apply for a visa as long as you continue your journey within 48 hours upon arrival and have onward tickets, valid travel documents and reserved seats. For more on US visa requirements, visit the travel.state.gov website, which is run by the Bureau of Consular Affairs.

Health and Safety

Chad has poorly maintained medical facilities especially in the north, so travelers are advised to have health and travel insurance that covers emergency repatriation. All types of water must be regarded as potentially contaminated, so sterilization and boiling is necessary. Milk should always be boiled because it is unpasteurized. Avoid dairy products whenever possible, or buy tin or powder milk.

Schistosomiasis or bilharzia is a threat in the southeast and southern parts of Chad, so swimming in fresh water should be avoided. During the dry season from November to May, meningococcal meningitis is common in the savannah areas. Travelers planning extended visits to Chad should be vaccinated against tuberculosis and hepatitis B. Hepatitis E is common in the north and eastern areas. HIV/AIDS is also widespread. Travelers over a year of age should have a yellow fever certificate.

Click here to learn about History and Culture in Chad