Tunisia
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Tunisia
Tunisia is a North African country with a rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Here are some key aspects:
Places to Visit
Carthage: Ancient ruins and historical significance
Sidi Bou Said: Charming town with whitewashed houses and blue shutters
Dougga: Roman ruins and scenic views
Djerba: Beautiful beaches and traditional village
Tunis: Medina, markets, and cultural attractions
Activities
- Beach relaxation: Enjoy Tunisia’s coastline
- Desert safaris: Explore the Sahara Desert
- cultural experiences: Try local cuisine, attend events, and visit markets
- History and archaeology: Visit ancient ruins and museums
Best Time to Visit
- March to October: Warm weather and sunshine
- June to August: Peak tourist season
- April to May and September to October: Shoulder season with pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Culture
- Arabic and French influence: Rich cultural heritage
- Cuisine: Mediterranean and African flavors
- Hospitality: Warm welcomes and friendly locals
Safety
Take normal precautions: Avoid crowded areas and stay informed
Security measures: Implemented to ensure tourist safety
Tour operators in Tunisia
Here are some top-rated tour operators in Tunisia:
Local Specialists
- ToursTunisia.com: A leading travel agency and destination management company offering high-quality services and tailor-made tours since 2010.
- Exploring Tourism: A reliable travel agency providing customized tour packages and expert guides for a memorable travel experience.
- Tunis Travel Agent: Specializes in organizing trips for individuals visiting Tunis, with in-depth knowledge of attractions, accommodations, and local customs.
Global Operators
- Agate Travel: Offers luxury tours, including a 9-day Tunisian adventure and a 5-day UNESCO treasures tour, with prices starting from $3,879 and $2,079, respectively.
- Tunisie Voyages: Provides guided tours, including a 5-day Tunisian adventure and a 6-day highlights tour, with prices starting from $1,200 and $1,663, respectively.
- Intrepid Travel: Offers small group tours, including a 12-day Tunisia tour, with prices starting from $3,960.
- Across Africa Tours & Travel: Provides luxury tours, including a 9-day Tunisia tour, with prices starting from $4,115.
Specialized Tour Operators
- Indus Travels: Specializes in cultural, religious, and historic sites, with prices starting from $1,627 for a 6-day trip.
- Encounters Travel: Offers private tours, including a 9-day trip, with prices starting from $2,185.
- Saharansky: Provides sightseeing tours, city tours, and visits to natural landmarks and historic sites.
- Adventures Abroad: Offers small group tours, including a 23-day Malta, Algeria, and Tunisia tour, with prices starting from $8,440.
Recommended Tour Companies
- Peregrine Adventures: Known for sustainable tourism and local cultures, with a 4.5-star rating.
- Audley Travel: Offers customized itineraries and private guided trips, with a 5-star rating.
- Kensington Tours: Provides standard tours with a 4.8-star rating.
- Exodus Adventure Travels: Offers group tours and private guided trips, with a 4.7-star rating.
Airbnb in Tunisia
Tunisia offers a wide range of Airbnb options, from cozy apartments to luxurious villas. Here are some top-rated rentals to consider:
Apartments
- Large Apartment in Tunis: 4.77-star rating, 56 reviews, features loggias with a stunning sea view.
- Cozy Apartment in Yasmine Hammamet: 4.71-star rating, 133 reviews, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Marina Residence Apartment in Monastir: 4.65-star rating, 83 reviews, boasts a private pool.
- Waterfront Apartment in Carthage: 4.84-star rating, 135 reviews, pet-friendly and beautifully decorated.
- Luxurious Apartment in La Marsa: 4.62-star rating, 13 reviews, features a garden and high-end amenities.
Villas
- Luxury Sea View Villa in Bizerte: 4.83-star rating, 186 reviews, offers breathtaking views and a private pool.
- Private Villa with Large Jacuzzi in Aghir: 4.84-star rating, 31 reviews, perfect for relaxation.
- Villa with Pool and Jacuzzi in La Marsa: 4.97-star rating, 37 reviews, ideal for families or groups.
- Luxury Beachfront Villa in Raf Raf: 5-star rating, 10 reviews, stunning ocean views and direct beach access.
- Villa Abir with Private Pool in Djerba: 4.9-star rating, 21 reviews, overlooks the sea and offers serene surroundings.
Homes
- Cozy Duplex in Sidi Bousaid: 4.89-star rating, 150 reviews, conveniently located near restaurants and cafes.
- Independent Room in Carthage: 4.86-star rating, 121 reviews, peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
- Dar Sandra in Hammamet: 4.93-star rating, 27 reviews, traditional Tunisian house with warm hospitality.
- Sweet & Spacious House in Hammamet: 4.78-star rating, 23 reviews, perfect for families or couples.
Popular Amenities
- Private Pools: Many rentals offer private pools for relaxation and recreation.
- Beach Access: Some rentals provide direct beach access or are within walking distance to the beach.
- Wi-Fi: Most rentals offer free Wi-Fi for convenient communication and entertainment.
- Pet-Friendly: Some rentals allow pets, so you can bring your furry friends along.
Airlines in Tunisia
Here’s a list of airlines operating in Tunisia:
Major Airlines
- Tunisair: The flag carrier airline of Tunisia, operating international services to European, African, and Middle Eastern destinations. It has a fleet of 30 aircraft and flies to 101 destinations.
- Nouvelair: A Tunisian airline company operating services from European cities to Tunisian holiday resorts, with a fleet of Airbus aircraft.
- Tunisair Express: An airline based in Tunis, operating flights to Italy, Libya, Malta, and Tunisia, with 5 aircraft and 12 destinations.
Other Airlines
- Syphax Airlines: A major airline of Tunisia, operating at Sfax–Thyna International Airport.
- Tunisavia: An airline providing charter and scheduled flights.
- Jasmin Airways: A charter airline operating in Tunisia.
- Sevenair: A defunct airline that previously operated in Tunisia.
- Karthago Airlines: A defunct airline that previously operated in Tunisia.
Airports and Destinations
- Some major airports in Tunisia include:
- Tunis Carthage International Airport: A hub for Tunisair and other airlines, with flights to 60 destinations.
- Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport: Serves European and international flights.
- Djerba-Zarzis International Airport: Connects to various destinations in Europe and Africa.
- Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport: A popular airport for tourists visiting Monastir.
Buses in Tunisia
Tunisia’s bus network is operated by a mix of government-owned and private companies. Here’s an overview:
Government-Owned Bus Companies:
- TRANSTU (Tunis): Operates urban bus services in Tunis
- STS (Sousse): Provides bus services in Sousse
- SNTRI (National Inter-Urban Transport Company): Offers inter-city bus services
- Regional Transport Companies: Various companies serving different governorates, such as:
- SRTG Nabeul
- SRTB Bizerte
- SORETRAK Kairouan
- SRT Kef
- SRT Medenine
Private Bus Companies:
- STCI (Société du Transport Confortable Interurbain): Offers long-distance bus services
- TUS and TUT: Provide urban and suburban bus services in Tunis
Bus Fares and Services:
- Local bus fare: 0.72 TND (Tunisian dinar)
- Long-distance bus fares: Vary depending on route and time of day
- Bus operating hours: Typically run from early morning to late evening, with limited services on weekends and holidays
New Developments:
The Tunisian government has signed a contract to acquire 300 new buses from King Long, a Chinese manufacturer, to modernize the public transport sector. This investment aims to improve service quality, reduce delays, and enhance citizen mobility.¹
Boats in Tunisia
Tunisia offers a wide range of boats for sale and rent, catering to various needs and preferences. Here’s an overview:
Boats for Sale
- Luxury Yachts: High-end yachts from brands like Slyder, Franchini, and Benetti are available, with prices ranging from $1.7 million to $9.2 million.
- Sailing Boats: Sailing boats, including catamarans and ketches, from brands like Jeanneau and Dynamique Yachts can be found, with prices starting from $45,000 to $2.5 million.
- Motorboats: Motorboats from brands like Princess, Airon, and Aquastar are available, with prices ranging from $125,446 to $920,708.
Boat Rentals
- Daily Rentals: Boat rentals in Tunisia cost approximately €330 per day, with prices varying from €143 to €2,142 per day, depending on the type and size of the boat.
- Types of Boats: Various types of boats are available for rent, including catamarans, RIBs, motorboats, and sailboats.
- Popular Locations: Boat rentals are available in locations like Djerba, Bizerte, and Monastir.
Boat Tours and Cruises
- Scuba and Snorkeling: Explore Tunisia’s underwater world with scuba and snorkeling tours.
- Sightseeing Tours: Take a boat tour to explore Tunisia’s coastline, including popular attractions like Borj El Kebir and Hammamet Beach.
- Boat Hire: Rent a boat with a captain or skipper to customize your tour.
Recommended Operators
- YachtWorld: Offers a wide range of boats for sale, including luxury yachts and sailing boats.
- Youboat: Provides a platform for buying and selling boats in Tunisia.
- Getmyboat: Offers boat rentals and charters in Tunisia, with options for captained tours.⁶
Guides in tourism in Tunisia
Tunisia offers various tour guides and travel agencies to enhance your travel experience. Here are some options:
Tour Guides
- Tunisia Travel Guide: Offers cultural immersion experiences, such as meeting local artisans, sharing tea with Berber families, and witnessing nomads crossing golden dunes on camelback.
- Taha B.: Provides private tours of Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, and Tunis Medina for $497 (8 hours, up to 10 people).
- Saber A.: Offers full-day guided sightseeing tours of Tunis for $ (8 hours, up to 3 people).
- Naceur F.: Leads full-day tours of Tunis highlights for $4 (8 hours, up to 4 people).
- Noureddine B.: Provides private group tours of Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, and Tunis Medina for $16 (9.5 hours, up to 6 people).
Travel Agencies
- Tunisia Travel Guide: A trusted partner for planning unforgettable trips, offering tailored experiences and expert guides.
- ToursByLocals: Offers customized tours with local guides, providing insights into Tunisia’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Types of Tours
- Cultural Immersion Tours: Explore Tunisia’s rich cultural heritage by meeting locals, trying traditional cuisine, and visiting historical sites.
- Historical Tours: Visit ancient ruins like Carthage, Dougga, and Bulla Regia, and learn about Tunisia’s history and significance.
- Desert Tours: Experience the Sahara Desert with camel rides, overnight stays in tents, and stunning sunsets.
- City Tours: Discover Tunis’ medina, Bardo Museum, and other cultural attractions.
Recommendations
- Research and choose reputable tour guides or travel agencies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Consider customized tours to tailor your experience to your interests.
- Don’t hesitate to ask locals for help or guidance; Tunisians are known for their hospitality.
Tourism industry in Tunisia
Tunisia offers various tour guides and travel agencies to enhance your travel experience. Here are some options:
Key Statistics:
- Tourist Arrivals: 8.8 million visitors in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels
- Revenue: 6.7 billion dinars ($2 billion euros) in 2023, with expectations to reach 6.9 billion dinars by year-end
- GDP Contribution: 9% of Tunisia’s GDP, employing around 400,000 people
- Growth Forecast: Tourist arrivals expected to climb to 10.6 million by 2028, with an average annual growth rate of 1.1%
Main Tourist Markets:
- Top Visitors: Algerians (2.7 million), Libyans (2.1 million), and French tourists (974,000)
- European Markets: France, Germany, UK, Poland, and the Czech Republic are key source markets
Challenges and Opportunities:
- Diversification: Tunisia needs to diversify its tourism offerings beyond beach holidays, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and archaeological sites
- Sustainable Tourism: Investing in ecological and sustainable tourism development can drive growth and create new opportunities
- Medical Tourism: Tunisia is gaining popularity for affordable healthcare facilities and high medical services, ranking 38th globally in the Medical Tourism Index 2020-2021⁴
Government Initiatives:
National Tourism Strategy 2035: Aims to make Tunisia a sustainable tourist destination, promoting diversified attractions and investments
USAID Visit Tunisia Activity: Supports businesses, increases employability, and drives investments in the tourism sector⁵
Beaches in Tunisia
Tunisia is renowned for its stunning beaches along the Mediterranean coastline. Here are some top recommendations:
Top Beaches in Tunisia
- Hammamet Beach: Known as the “Tunisian Saint Tropez,” Hammamet boasts a vibrant beach town atmosphere with a 10-kilometer stretch of soft, powdery sand and warm waters perfect for swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and water skiing.
- Plage Mahdia: Located on the eastern coast, Plage Mahdia features golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The nearby town of Mahdia offers a fascinating medina and traditional cafes.
- Sidi Mahrez Beach: Situated on the Djerba peninsula, Sidi Mahrez is a laid-back beach destination with natural beauty, calm waters, and stretches of sand lined with palm trees. Enjoy water sports, horse or camel rides, and local restaurants.
- Ain Mestir Beach: Nestled in Sounine on the northern coast, Ain Mestir is a family-friendly beach with golden sand, turquoise waters, and a mountainous backdrop. Access is easy by car, and amenities include umbrellas, sun loungers, and a beach restaurant.
- Plage Yéti: Located on the east coast of Djerba, Plage Yéti offers a gradual slope into the water and crystal-clear ocean, perfect for jet-skiing, boat trips, or relaxation.
- Plage du Petit Paris: In Nabeul on the Cape Bon peninsula, Plage du Petit Paris is a popular spot for swimming and beach volleyball, with nearby restaurants and easy car access.
Other Notable Beaches
- Sentido Djerba Beach: Praised for its cleanliness, delicious food, and excellent service.
- Plage de La Mansourah: Offers an excellent beach experience with an amazing view and incredible water quality.
- Plage Sidi Fenkhal: Features crystal-clear waters and beautiful sunrise views, ideal for family or couples.³
Touristic sites in Tunisia
Tunisia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering countless touristic sites to explore. Here are some top recommendations:
Historic Sites
- Amphithéâtre D’el Jem: This Roman amphitheater is a must-visit, showcasing impressive architecture and history. With a 5-star rating, it’s a fantastic spot to learn about Tunisia’s Roman past.
- Medina of Tunis: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic medina dates back to the 7th century, featuring narrow streets, souks, and landmarks like Zitouna Mosque and Dar Hussein Palace.
- Dougga: Explore the ancient Roman city of Dougga, featuring public baths, toilets, and drainage systems, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Bulla Regia: Discover Roman ruins and underground villas with intact walls and floor mosaics, offering a glimpse into Tunisia’s rich history.
Beaches and Nature
- Hammamet Beach: Enjoy the vibrant beach town atmosphere, soft sand, and warm waters perfect for swimming, scuba diving, and water sports.
- Plage de La Mansourah: Relax on this excellent beach with amazing views, incredible water quality, and nearby restaurants.
- Sahara Desert: Experience the majestic dunes, ride camels or dune buggies, and witness breathtaking sunsets in Tunisia’s Sahara Desert.
- Tamerza Canyon: Marvel at the stunning oasis, palms, and waterfalls in this magnificent natural wonder.
Museums and Cultural Experiences
- National Bardo Museum: Admire spectacular Roman mosaics and learn about Tunisia’s history and culture in this world-class museum.
- Musee De Guellala: Explore the fine collection of pottery and observe the sunset from the round observation tower.
- Sidi Bou Said: Wander through the picturesque village’s white alleyways, blue doors, and Mediterranean views.
Other Attractions
- Kairouan: Visit the fourth most important city in Islam, featuring mosques, madrassas, and tombs with stunning Arabic architecture.
- Sousse Medina: Explore the warren of looping lanes, whitewashed houses, and shopping paradise with ceramics, leatherwork, and metalwork.
- Crocodile Farm: Get up close and personal with over a thousand crocodiles in this unique attraction.
National Parks in Tunisia
Tunisia has 17 national parks that showcase its diverse natural beauty and wildlife. Here are some of the top national parks to explore:
Top National Parks in Tunisia
- Ichkeul National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is home to Lake Ichkeul and its wetlands, a crucial stopover for migratory birds like flamingos, storks, and ducks.
- Bou-Hedma National Park: Located near Gafsa, this park protects endangered species like the addax antelope and features Roman-era relics, including a village, bridge, and aqueduct.
- Jebil National Park: Tunisia’s largest national park, covering 150,000 hectares of the Sahara Desert, offering camel treks, dramatic rock formations, and prehistoric sites.
- Mount Chambi National Park: Protects Tunisia’s highest peak, Mount Chambi, and its indigenous species, including Aleppo pines, holm oaks, Barbary sheep, and Cuvier’s gazelle.
- Dghoumes National Park: Known for its Saharan biodiversity, featuring flora and fauna like gazelles, hares, and vipers.
- El Feidja National Park: Home to over 20 mammal species, 70 bird species, and 20 reptile species, including Barbary deer and golden wolves.
- Zembra National Park: A rocky island in the Gulf of Tunis, hosting 266 plant species and animals like the wild rabbit and birds.
Other notable national parks in Tunisia
- Boukornine National Park: Features diverse ecosystems, wild boars, jackals, and reptiles.
- Jebel Mghilla National Park: Known for its geological and paleontological significance.
- Jebel Orbata National Park: Protects rare and endangered flora and fauna.
- Sidi Toui National Park: A vital wildlife sanctuary in the semi-desert region.
- Jebel Zaghdoud National Park: A sanctuary for wildlife, including wild boars, jackals, and porcupines.
These national parks offer opportunities for hiking, camping, birdwatching, and exploring Tunisia’s natural beauty.
Cultural sites in Tunisia
Tunisia is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, landmarks, and architectural wonders. Here are some top cultural sites to explore:
Historic Sites
- Medina of Tunis: A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, this historic medina dates back to the 7th century and features 700 monuments, including Zitouna Mosque and Dar Hussein Palace.
- Amphithéâtre D’el Jem: An impressive Roman amphitheater showcasing stunning architecture and history.
- Dougga: Explore ancient Roman ruins, public baths, toilets, and drainage systems, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Mosques and Religious Sites
- Great Mosque of Kairouan: A significant mosque at the heart of the city’s heritage.
- Zitouna Mosque: The largest and oldest mosque in Tunis, built in the 8th century.
- Mosque Sidi Youssef: A beautiful mosque with impressive architecture and a central location.
- Great Mosque of Mahdiya: Built by Fatimid Imam in 916 AD, featuring stunning Fatimid-style architecture.
Palaces and Museums
- Dar El Jeld: A historic site with panoramic views of the medina and great drinks.
- Dar Lasram: A lovely room with marvelous breakfast options and multinational guests.
- Dar Hussein: A former palace housing a museum with exhibitions on Tunisian history.
Other Cultural Landmarks
- Sidi Bou Said: A picturesque village with white alleyways, blue doors, and Mediterranean views.
- Kasbah Square: A historic square with old buildings, municipality, ministries, and offices.
- L’aqueduc de Zaghouan: A 2nd-century Roman aqueduct showcasing impressive engineering.
Hotels in Tunisia
Tunisia offers a wide range of hotels to suit various budgets and preferences. Here are some top recommendations:
Luxury Hotels
- Dar El Jeld Hotel & Spa: A 5-star hotel with spacious rooms, modern amenities, and excellent service. Located in Tunis, it’s close to the Medina and Bardo Museum.
- Movenpick Hotel Du Lac Tunis: A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms, rooftop restaurant, and stunning lake views. Perfect for business and leisure travelers.
- Sheraton Tunis Hotel: A 5-star hotel with modern rooms, fitness center, and outdoor pool. Ideal for business trips and relaxation.
- Steigenberger Marhaba Thalasso: A 5-star resort with all-inclusive options, thalassotherapy center, and stunning sea views.
Beachfront Hotels
- Hotel Bel Azur Thalasso & Bungalows: A 5-star beachfront hotel with thalassotherapy center, spa, and stunning sea views. Located in Hammamet.
- Houda Yasmine Hammamet: A 4-star hotel with relaxing pool area, marina views, and excellent service.
- Radisson Blu Resort & Thalasso, Hammamet: A 5-star resort with large pool, thalassotherapy center, and modern rooms.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Sidi Mehrez Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel starting from $12 per night.
- Dar Ya: A cozy hostel with prices starting from $10 per night.
- Nomads Hostel Tunisia: A budget-friendly hostel with prices starting from $15 per night.
- Marabout – Families and Couples: A 3-star hotel with prices starting from $36 per night.
Other Recommendations
Novotel Tunis Lac: A 4-star hotel with modern rooms, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
Hotel Carlton Tunis: A 4-star hotel with elegant rooms, restaurant, and bar.
Africa Hotel: A 3-star hotel with comfortable rooms, restaurant, and bar.
