For the purposes of our ‘when to go’ guide, when we talk of Chad, we’re really referring to Zakouma National Park, the safari highlight of the country. The best time to visit Zakouma is undoubtedly in the dry season from November to May when the park is in its iconic, Sahara-like condition. In fact, it’s pretty much inaccessible for the rest of the year when the heavy rains fall and the roads flood and become impassable. As the dry season progresses, the temperature and humidity rises with April and May being the hottest months. For blue skies, balmy temperatures and excellent game viewing, our favourite months to visit are undoubtedly January and February, but November, December, March and April are not to be sniffed at either.