Exploring Zakouma National Park in Chad
Location and Overview
Zakouma National Park is located in southeastern Chad, within the Salamat Region, approximately 860 kilometers (about 534 miles) from N’Djamena, the capital. Spanning over 3,000 square kilometers, the park is a vital part of the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem. It is one of the last intact savannah ecosystems in Central Africa, offering a diverse range of landscapes from grasslands to wetlands.
Wildlife and Conservation
Zakouma is renowned for its wildlife, particularly its elephant population. Once devastated by poaching, the elephant numbers have stabilized and begun to grow under the management of African Parks since 2010. The park is home to one of the largest elephant herds in Africa, sometimes seen in groups of up to 500. Additionally, Zakouma hosts half of the world’s population of the critically endangered Kordofan giraffe. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with nearly 400 bird species recorded, including tens of thousands of black-crowned cranes.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal time to visit Zakouma is during the dry season, from mid-November to the end of May. This period offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate around water sources. The park is closed during the rainy season (May to October) due to flooding, which makes travel difficult.
Getting There
Reaching Zakouma requires some planning. The park is about a 13-hour drive from N’Djamena. Renting a 4×4 with a driver is recommended, costing around 250,000 CFA per day, including fuel. Self-driving is not advised due to roadblocks and challenging conditions. Alternatively, you can fly into the park with a charter company contracted by African Parks.
Local Transportation and Accommodation
Once in the park, you can explore by joining twice-daily game drives included in lodge pricing or by self-driving with a ranger if you have rented a vehicle. Accommodation options include Tinga Camp, starting at $145 per person per night, and the exclusive Camp Nomade, which requires a private guide for a bespoke tour.
Activities and Experiences
Zakouma offers a range of activities beyond game drives. Visitors can enjoy guided walks, visit local markets, partake in bush dinners, and spend a night under the stars. The local market outside the park is a great place to purchase souvenirs and experience the local culture.
Challenges and Considerations
Traveling to Zakouma can be challenging due to its remote location and the need for careful planning. Visitors should be prepared for limited infrastructure and ensure they have cash in the local currency for tolls and other expenses. Despite these challenges, the unique wildlife and landscapes make Zakouma a rewarding destination for adventurous travelers.
