Is N'Djamena Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

N'Djamena, the capital of Chad, is not recommended for solo female travelers to walk alone at night. Security conditions can be extremely volatile and conditions can change quickly. Pickpocketing, armed robberies, and other petty crimes are common throughout the city, especially after dark. It's strongly advisable to stay in well-lit areas, preferably with a group, or take a taxi when moving around at night.

Public transportation in N'Djamena consists mainly of minibuses and taxis. These can get crowded and can sometimes be uncomfortable or unreliable. Also, there may be communication difficulties if you don't speak French or Arabic. Taking precautions such as avoiding unnecessary travel during night time and always being aware of your surroundings can help increase your safety.

N'Djamena, which is actually located in Chad, not Cameroon, has notable occurrences of street harassment. It's quite common for local men to make unsolicited comments or give unwanted attention to foreign women. It is advisable for solo female travelers to stay alert, particularly at crowded market places and busy intersections. It's best to maintain a firm manner and avoid unnecessary interactions. Learning a few phrases in local languages can also be a tool to deescalate situations and establish boundaries.

N'Djamena, located in Chad rather than Cameroon, experiences a considerable level of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and theft from vehicles. These crimes often increase in crowded areas, markets, parks, and on public transportation. Therefore, travelers are advised to maintain a high level of vigilance, keep personal belongings close, and avoid displaying any items of value.

Drinking tap water directly in N'Djamena isn't generally recommended. It's safer to drink bottled water, or water that's been boiled or treated chemically. The local tap water might contain microorganisms that could cause illnesses, particularly for travelers from areas with different water quality. This doesn't mean you can't enjoy local food, just remember to stay hydrated with safe, clean water sources.

The United States Government advises to exercise increased caution in Cameroon due to crime. Some areas have greater risk. Check the full travel advisory.

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Cameroon. This is due to the high level of violent crime in some regions and existing tensions in the Sahel region. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in Cameroon due to the threat of violent crime and the risk of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.