Lake Yoa
Lake Saharan oasis lake in Ennedi, supports local wildlife
A Saharan oasis in Ennedi Ouest, Lake Yoa draws expedition travelers for desert scenery, contrasting dunes and seasonal wetlands; guided 4x4 trips visit traditional settlements and this unusual stretch of water in an arid landscape.
Lake Yoa is a lake in the Ennedi Ouest Department of Chad and is one of the Ounianga lakes in the Sahara. It is noted as part of a linked system of desert lakes in an otherwise hyper-arid region.
The lake is one element of the Ounianga lake group, which is internationally recognized for its rare permanent lakes sustained by fossil groundwater in a Sahara setting. The lakes attract scientific interest for hydrology and desert ecology.
The lakes in this area have existed for many centuries due to groundwater inputs and local geology rather than recent human construction; Lake Yoa’s persistence contrasts with the surrounding desert environment.
Lake Yoa is located in northeastern Chad’s Ennedi Plateau area; it lies within the broader Ounianga lake basin in the central Sahara.
- UNESCO inscription: Forms part of the Ounianga lakes system, which is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tips for Visiting Lake Yoa #
- Visit as part of an organised tour from Faya or another regional hub: Lake Yoa is in a remote, protected complex of Ounianga lakes and overland access requires local logistics and experienced drivers.
- Plan your trip in the cooler months to avoid extreme heat, and be prepared for long desert drives; arranging local guides/permits and knowledgeable transport is essential for safety and access in Ennedi Ouest.
Best Time to Visit Lake Yoa #
Best visited in the cooler months (roughly November-February) when daytime temperatures are milder for desert travel.
Weather & Climate near Lake Yoa #
Lake Yoa's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in June) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 11°C to 40°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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March
March is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 16°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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April
April is hot with highs of 37°C and lows of 21°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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May
May is hot with highs of 39°C and lows of 24°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is the hottest month with highs of 40°C and lows of 26°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 26°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 26°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 24°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is hot with highs of 36°C and lows of 21°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 16°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
