N’Djamena Layover Guide (NDJ)

What are you looking for in NDJ?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

N’Djamena Airport (NDJ) is an international airport located in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad. It’s situated approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) from the city center. The airport officially began operations in 1967. N’Djamena is the largest city in Chad and serves as its economic and cultural hub. The city is known for its vibrant markets, proximity to the Chari River, and its mix of traditional and modern Chadian lifestyles.

Can you leave N’Djamena Airport (NDJ) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Transit passengers at N’Djamena airport may remain in the international transit zone for up to 48 hours without a visa but are not permitted to exit the terminal. To leave the airport during a layover, a valid Chadian entry visa or e-visa—obtainable in advance or on arrival for eligible nationals—is required (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• National Museum of Chad Explore Chad’s heritage through archaeological artifacts, traditional masks, colonial-era exhibits, and vibrant art collections that illuminate the country’s diverse ethnic cultures and historical evolution, comfortably complete in under an hour. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or public bus (~30 min))
• Great Mosque of N’Djamena Admire the striking architecture of the city’s largest mosque, featuring modern design elements blended with Islamic motifs. Visitors respect local customs and can photograph the intricate facades during prayer-free hours. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~15 min) or motorcycle taxi (~15 min))
• Marché Central Wander bustling stalls offering colorful fabrics, fresh produce, handcrafted jewelry, and aromatic spices. Immerse in everyday Chadian life, sample street food snacks like boule, and practice haggling with friendly vendors. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min))
• Chari River Promenade Stroll along the Chari River promenade at sunset, enjoying river views, fishermen, and market stalls. Relax at shaded benches, sip fresh coconut water, and capture panoramic cityscapes against the sky. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min))
• Monument aux Martyrs Visit the Monument aux Martyrs, honoring Chad’s fallen heroes. Marvel at the bronze sculptures and engraved plaques, offering a poignant reflection on national history and sacrifice in a park setting. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min))
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Discover the elegant Notre-Dame Cathedral, blending Gothic and modern elements. Its stained-glass windows cast colorful light across the serene interior, offering visitors a peaceful, historic retreat and architectural wonder downtown. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~15 min))
• Artisan Market on Avenue Félix Éboué Browse the Artisan Market on Avenue Félix Éboué for locally made crafts. Choose handwoven baskets, leather goods, and jewelry while supporting local artisans and immersing yourself in vibrant Chadian creativity. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min))
• Le Jardin Restaurant & Café Relax at Le Jardin restaurant and café, sampling Chadian specialties like jarret de boeuf and fresh juices. The tranquil garden setting provides respite for layover travelers seeking local, authentic flavors. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min))

Things to Do in N’Djamena Airport (NDJ)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
N’Djamena Airport features a single VIP lounge offering quiet, air-conditioned comfort away from busy terminals. Complimentary hot meals, snacks and beverages are provided alongside reliable high-speed Wi-Fi. Guests can access private workstations, charging stations and entertainment options. Lounge access may be purchased on arrival or included with select airline tickets. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Several hotels within a ten-minute drive of NDJ include Radisson Blu, Novotel La Tchadienne, Hôtel La Résidence and Hôtel Irrisor. Rooms feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, breakfast and airport shuttle services. Most properties offer 24-hour reception, secure parking and staff, making them ideal for comfortable overnight stays near the airport. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
NDJ lacks dedicated rest zones, but passengers can find clusters of seating in quiet sections of the terminal. Power outlets and prayer rooms offer refuge for light rest. Overnight stays are permitted, though facilities are basic. Carry earplugs and an eye mask for better sleep in this modest, no-frills environment.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi coverage at NDJ is limited to the VIP lounge area. Public zones may lack reliable internet, forcing travelers to use cellular data. High-speed connectivity in the lounge supports streaming or remote work. To access public internet, visitors must purchase a voucher at the information desk for a fee.

SIM/eSIM Card: SIM cards from local operators such as Airtel Tchad and Tigo are sold at kiosks in the arrivals hall. Registration requires a valid passport and local address. Prepaid plans offer 2G, 3G and 4G data. eSIM support is currently unavailable; visitors should purchase a physical SIM for connectivity in Chad. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Authorized taxis operate 24/7 from the arrivals hall curbside. Fares should be negotiated in advance or set via the airport’s fixed-rate scheme. Vehicles are standard sedans or shared taxis and seat up to four. Drivers do not usually accept cards; carry local currency. Expect a 15-minute drive to central N’Djamena.

Train: No train service is available to or from N’Djamena Airport; Chad currently lacks a passenger rail network. Travelers must use scheduled road transport options like taxis, buses or shuttles to reach the city center, therefore rely on them. (more info).

Bus: No formal public bus lines serve NDJ directly; passengers can board shared minibus taxis at the terminal front. These minibuses follow hourly set routes across N’Djamena and cost a few dollars. They run from early morning until evening. (more info).

Shuttle: Several hotels offer complimentary airport shuttle services; confirm availability when booking. Shared shuttle vans and private transfers can also be pre-arranged online. Meet-and-greet points are located outside the arrivals hall. Schedules vary by operator, with most running between 05:00 and 22:00. Fees depend on distance and group size; reservations recommended.

Car rentals: Multiple international and car rental firms, including Europcar, Avis and Sixt, operate at NDJ. Vehicles range from compact cars to SUVs. Book online for guaranteed availability and pickup at the arrivals. Rates include basic insurance; additional coverage and GPS units are available at extra cost. Drivers must be over 21. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: NDJ offers short-term and long-term parking adjacent to the terminal building. Spaces are secure, open-air and guarded with CCTV. Rates are charged per hour or per day; expect modest fees. Payment is cash only at the exit booth. Disabled bays are available but capacity can be limited during peak hours.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

NDJ does not provide formal luggage storage or lockers. Travelers must either check baggage with airlines or use wrapping services to secure items. Some operators may offer paid baggage storage, but availability is not guaranteed. For valuables, consider carrying them personally, as secure storage options are limited at this airport. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- N’Djamena Airport (NDJ) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks