Zakouma

Camp Nomade

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Camp Nomade

About Camp Nomade

Explore Africa's next frontier in Chad's Zakouma Park, at this nomad-style tented camp.

Once a scarcely visited area due to tumultuous conflict, Chad in Central Africa is opening up to the safari tourism industry in a big way. Here, south of the Sahara is Zakouma National Park, where poaching was once so rife it nearly decimated the wildlife that roamed the unique ecosystem. Today, Zakouma has seen a dramatic turnaround in animal numbers, and following their movements in the dry season is fascinating. That's why we're fans of Camp Nomade, a highly-exclusive tented camp that only opens for a short spell between mid-December and mid-April, the very driest part of the season when the wildlife is at its best. This camp can only be booked by invitation from African Parks and is no longer operating as a commercial camp.

Zakouma , Chad

Safari

4 Rooms

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Property details

The property

The main area echoes the nomadic theme, with traditional rugs scattered on the ground beneath a ceiling of canvas. The carpets are woven in vivid red, blues and yellows, as are the huge plush cushions that are scattered on them, perfect for relaxing and admiring the view and the blazing sunsets. Beyond, small tables overlook the riverbanks and thorn bushes. In the evening, hurricane lanterns are lit, a crackling fire is set – the perfect setting for your evening meal.

The rooms

Eight charming tents, their walls of mosquito netting covered with a roof of stretch canvas, face the plains, providing spectacular views from your comfortable camp bed. The tents are based on those used by the Sahel's nomadic population, with traditional carpets and fabrics. Other furnishings include painted tin trunks, lanterns and woven baskets, and water in a flask. The individual, grass-walled bathrooms set 10 paces behind each tent have rustic bucket showers and a toilet.

Activities

Camp Nomade operates between December and April – Zakouma is under water the rest of the year. You'll see most of the action on the morning, afternoon and evening game drives, but do take a walking safari to inspect the surroundings more closely. There are plenty of species to satisfy birders, and those looking to immerse themselves in Chad's nomadic culture can visit the local markets and schools and possibly even encounter passing herders.

Why we love it

The chance to see the wildlife of Central Africa up close – think elephant, buffalo in herds of up to 1000, roan antelope, tiang and lelwel hartebeest (and their watchful predators) congregating around the remaining pools of water.

Insiders Tip

Head out on a fly camping expedition with the nomads to the north of the park or along the banks of the Salamat River. A true bucket-list experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Something to think about

Access. It's a 12 to 14-hour drive from Chad's capital, N'Djamena, along bumpy and sometimes arduous roads (unless you fly, that is).

Trips

Zakouma Tours & Trips

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Chad

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Zakouma National Park

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How to book Camp Nomade

How do I book Camp Nomade?

Camp Nomade can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Chad trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Chad trips featuring Camp Nomade or get advice and suggestions from one of our Chad specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

Chad

Zakouma National Park

An extraordinary national park and conservation success story that’s home to epic endemic wildlife.