What budget to travel au Tchad? Money and currency
Chad, the vast territory of Central Africa, is an expensive destination compared with other African countries. The official currency is the CFA franc, which is stable thanks to its peg to the euro, although travelers should be alert to any fluctuations.
As far as transactions are concerned, it is preferable to carry cash, especially when outside the capital N'Djamena. Credit cards are only accepted in major hotels and establishments in the capital. Remember to exchange enough currency on arrival, as exchange offices are rare outside the major cities.
Gratuities are welcome, and for accommodation, expect variable costs. In eco mode, accommodation is simple but decent. For greater comfort, higher-category establishments offer additional services and facilities. And for premium service, international standards are present in N'Djamena.
What budget for activities and outings au Tchad?
In N'Djamena, the best deal for sports enthusiasts is to take advantage of the facilities at the Hotel La Tchadienne, where you can run, play tennis, swim and even play table tennis or volleyball. If you don't stay or have lunch at the hotel, you'll have to pay a small fee, but it's very reasonable.
In the market, always be prepared to negotiate prices - the opposite would be seen as a sign of stupidity by the seller. Once negotiated, prices often appear so derisory that a tip will compensate for your guilt.
Most nightclubs are free and accept credit cards. However, you should expect to pay an entrance fee of around 5 to 10,000 CFA when there is a special event.
What budget to eat au Tchad?
Expect to pay around 5,000 FCFA for a meal in a small local restaurant, but expect to pay 20,000 FCFA per person if you're going to treat yourself in a more international restaurant, especially if you plan to drink wine.
Happy hours are frequent in trendy establishments such as QG and Côté Jardin, which offer them on Tuesdays. Credit cards are widely accepted. Don't forget to tip! (5% recommended)
What is the budget for accommodation au Tchad?
N'Djamena is a fairly expensive city for accommodation. Expect to pay between 30,000 CFA and 50,000 CFA for an entry-level establishment, and more than 100,000 for the finest hotels.
Travel budget au Tchad and cost of living
By way of illustration, here are a few prices
Tomatoes (1 kg): 1,000 FCFA.
Potatoes (1 kg): 100 FCFA.
Bananas (per piece): 100 FCFA.
Mango (1 kg): 1,000 FCFA.
Beef fillet (1 kg): 7,000 FCFA.
Mutton (1 kg) : 4 000 FCFA.
Nescafé (small tin): 700 FCFA.
Sugar (1 kg): 1,250 FCFA.
Local peanut oil (1 l): 1,500 FCFA.
Nido milk (small tin): 3,500 FCFA.
Water (1.5 l bottle): 500 FCFA.
Petrol or diesel (1 l): 700-800 FCFA.
Cigarettes (1 pack): 500 FCFA for local brands and 1,000 FCFA for imports.
Soda: from 350 (grocery store) to 1,000 FCFA depending on location.
Local beer: from 750 FCFA for a 66 cl bottle.
Main course: in a Chadian restaurant between 1,500 and 2,500 FCFA.
Shared cab: 250 to 500 FCFA depending on the route - 5,000 FCFA for a single trip.
Stamp for Europe: 1,000 FCFA, 20g postage.
Internet connection: 1,000 FCFA per hour.
