Zakouma National Park
Guided SafariZAK-2027-01

Zakouma National Park

Chad28 February – 8 March 2027 8 nights
Guided by Doug MacDonald

Journey to Chad's Zakouma National Park, one of Africa's most extraordinary and least-visited wildernesses. Guided by renowned naturalist Doug MacDonald.

This 9-day, 8-night expedition takes you deep into Chad's Zakouma National Park, a conservation triumph and one of the continent's greatest hidden gems, guided by renowned naturalist Doug MacDonald.

After a night in N'Djamena with time to explore the city's vibrant markets and the ancient Gaoui Kingdom, a charter flight drops you into the heart of Zakouma. Seven fully inclusive nights at the intimate Tinga Camp become your base for early morning game drives, bush walks, thrilling night drives and optional fly-camping on the banks of the Salamat River. Zakouma is unlike anywhere else in Africa. Here you'll encounter species rarely seen on the classic safari circuit: Kordofan Giraffe, Tiang, Llewel's Hartebeest, Pale Fox, Patas Monkeys and elephant herds recovering beautifully under African Parks' stewardship. The birding alone is a revelation, with breathtaking volumes of species and a real chance of something never before recorded in the area.

This is a journey for the curious, the adventurous and the passionate. For those who want more than a safari and who are ready to witness Africa in its most raw, authentic and unspoiled form.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

What’s Included

Transport

Schedule Flights To and From Zakouma, Private Vehicle, Transfer to La Residence

Accommodation

La Residence Hotel N'Djamena (1 night), Tinga Camp (7 nights)

Included

  • Guided By Doug Macdonald
  • Visa Documentation for application
  • Zakouma National Park Fees

Excluded

  • International Flights to Chad
  • Travel Insurance with remote evacuation policy
  • Visa Fees
  • Extra Meals and Drinks in N'Djamena
  • Gratuities
  • Drinks including bottled water

Where You’ll Stay

La Residence Hotel N'Djamena

N'Djamena · Chad

Photo 1

A calm and welcoming retreat in the heart of Chad's capital, Hotel La Résidence offers the comfort and reassurance of a well-run four-star property after the adventure of Zakouma. With 119 air-conditioned rooms, a sparkling pool, lush gardens and attentive service from an experienced international team, it strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined.

Fifty-five rooms overlook the pool, and many feature private balconies where you can unwind with a sundowner before dinner. The hotel's restaurant, quiet public spaces and beautifully maintained grounds make it an easy place to settle into, whether you're arriving into N'Djamena for the first time or savouring the final night of your safari. Ideally situated on a peaceful street close to the international airport and Avenue Charles de Gaulle, everything you need is close at hand.

Tinga Camp

Zakouma National Park · Chad

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Tinga Camp, Zakouma National Park

Tucked beneath ancient tamarind trees on the banks of the Salamat River, Tinga Camp is a place that gets under your skin. Twenty-four thatched chalets, a mix of standard and superior rooms, sit quietly in the bush where wildlife moves freely through camp at all hours. Each is simply and thoughtfully appointed with en-suite facilities, mosquito nets and ceiling fans, letting the sights and sounds of Zakouma take centre stage.

Days here revolve around the wild. Game drives, night drives and bush walks give way to lazy afternoons in the shade and long, convivial meals in the open-air main area, where the WildEarth team and camp staff create a warmth and ease that makes Tinga feel far more like a home than a hotel. This is authentic African bush camp living at its most rewarding.

Destinations

Explore the country

Price on request
Dates28 February – 8 March 2027
Duration8 nights

Your Guide

Born in Zimbabwe into a family of adventurers with deep roots in Africa, Doug MacDonald has spent more than 30 years guiding guests across the continent, from the celebrated wildlife areas of Botswana, Tanzania and his beloved Zimbabwe to some of Africa's most remote wild places.