Lac

Lac (Lake) province occupies Chad's portion of the Lake Chad basin, including parts of the lake itself and its surrounding wetlands, islands, and floodplains. The province is defined entirely by the presence of Lake Chad — Africa's second-largest wetland and one of the Sahel's most vital water bodies. The landscape reaches from open water to reed-fringed islands, floodplain grasslands, and desert-edge scrub. The population is primarily Kanembu and Kotoko, with livelihoods based on fishing, farming (rice, maize, vegetables), and livestock.

The provincial capital is Bol, the main town on the lake. Security conditions have improved in recent years, but the region was affected by Boko Haram activity and travellers should consult current security advice.

November to February is the most comfortable and practical period. The lake level is highest after the rainy season (October–November), offering the best conditions for boat trips.

4×4 is essential on land, and a pirogue (dugout canoe) is the standard transport on water. Boat hire is available in Bol.

• Bol — Provincial capital and main port on Lake Chad.
• Bagassola — Island settlement on the lake.
• Daboua — Fishing village on the lake shore.
• Doum Doum — Village on an island in Lake Chad.
• Liwa — Lakeside fishing community.
• Ngouri — Fishing and farming settlement.
• Kangalam — Village on the lake's edge.
• Ngouboua — Remote lakeside settlement.

Fish from Lake Chad — fresh, smoked, or fried — is the foundation of local cuisine. Rice, cassava, and vegetables are also cultivated on the fertile floodplain.

The Kotoko and Kanembu peoples have a rich fishing culture with annual festivals tied to the lake's rhythms. Islamic holidays are widely observed.

• Boat trips on Lake Chad through the maze of islands and reeds.
• Visiting floating fishing villages.
• Birdwatching — Lake Chad hosts millions of migratory waterbirds.
• Observing traditional fishing with large nets from wooden pirogues.