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Safaris in Zakouma National Park
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Zakouma National Park guide
Overview
Zakouma National Park in southeastern Chad was established in 1963 and covers about 3,000 km² of Sudano-Sahelian savannah, woodland and seasonal floodplain. It is managed by African Parks in partnership with the government of Chad, which took over in 2010 after a period of devastating elephant poaching.
Under this partnership, poaching has been brought under control, and Zakouma has become one of Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories. Elephant numbers are now growing again, and the park has become a key area for wildlife in the region.
Wildlife
Zakouma is known for its elephant herds, as well as large numbers of buffalo, Kordofan giraffe, roan antelope, Lelwel hartebeest, tiang, kob and waterbuck. Predators include lion, leopard and spotted hyena. Black rhino were reintroduced in 2018. In the dry season, the remaining pools attract huge gatherings of waterbirds, including black crowned cranes and pelicans.
Key wildlife
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: Mar–May. Also good: Dec–Feb.
Peak Good Quieter
The park opens to visitors in the dry season, from about December to May, and closes in the wet season. The 2026–27 season is scheduled from 1 December 2026. Game viewing improves as the dry season goes on, and March to May is very hot. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention.
Getting There
International flights arrive at N’Djamena International Airport (NDJ). The park is usually reached by charter flight to its airstrip, as a long road journey is involved otherwise.
Fees & Access
Entrance fees
On the park’s 2025–26 rate sheet, international adults pay a park fee of US$30 per person per day and children aged 7–12 US$15; children 6 and under are free. Africa and Chad residents pay US$15 per adult. A tourism tax of US$2.50 per person per day and a travelling tourism tax of US$9 per stay are added, and foreign-registered vehicles pay US$15 per day.
The park is open only in the dry season. Confirm rates for the 2026–27 season when you book.
Gate hours
Open to visitors in the dry season only (2026–27 season from 1 Dec 2026)
Health
Malaria risk: High. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials before you go.
Fees and gate times change. Check the latest rates with the park authority before you travel.
Safety and Advisories
Several governments advise against all or all but essential travel to parts of Chad, including border areas. Check your own government’s current travel advisory for Chad before making any plans, and follow it. We do not give travel advice beyond what official advisories say.
Location
Where is Zakouma National Park?
Good to know
Zakouma National Park FAQs
How much are Zakouma National Park fees?
On the 2025–26 rate sheet, international adults pay US$30 per day and children aged 7–12 US$15, plus a tourism tax of US$2.50 per day and US$9 per stay. Confirm rates for the new season when you book.
When is Zakouma open to visitors?
The park is open only in the dry season, roughly December to May. The 2026–27 season is scheduled to open on 1 December 2026.
What wildlife can you see in Zakouma?
Zakouma is known for its elephant herds, as well as buffalo, Kordofan giraffe, roan antelope, Lelwel hartebeest, lion and huge gatherings of waterbirds.
Who manages Zakouma National Park?
The park has been managed since 2010 by African Parks in partnership with the government of Chad.
How do you get to Zakouma?
International flights arrive at N’Djamena International Airport (NDJ). The park is usually reached by charter flight to its airstrip.
Is it safe to visit Zakouma?
We do not give travel advice beyond what official advisories say. Check your own government’s current travel advisory for Chad before making any plans, and follow it.
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