TUNISIA TRAVEL GUIDE
Tunisia, officially the Republic of Tunisia, is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. Its northernmost point, Cape Angela, is also the northernmost point on the African continent.
Deep blue waters of the Mediterranean, sheer cliffs, sunny skies and old cities with exotic souks full of the magic of Arabian nights – carpets, perfume, incense, spices, copper and brass, gold and silver. A warm and friendly people who live in the heart of the Mediterranean, whose civilization and culture developed and grew with new influences absorbed the from both the east and the west - from Phoenicians to the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottoman Turks and the French; a country resplendent with a heritage of Punic and Roman ruins and medieval cities.
Tourism is pretty well developed in Tunisia, although not on par with other countries like Egypt and Morocco. You can easily travel independently in Tunisia using public transport although the south of Tunisia is very different from the north. A reputable tour guide is advisable for the south of Tunisia and visitors are advised to avoid the regions adjacent to the Algerian and Libyan borders where kidnappings have been reported.
- Capital: Tunis
- Currency: Tunisian Dinar (TND)
- Area: 163,610 km²
- Population: 11,57 million (2018)
- Language: Arabic (official and one of the languages of commerce), French (commerce)
- Religion:Muslim 98%, Christian 1%, and Jews 1%
- Electricity: 127-220V/50Hz (European plug)
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BEST TIME TO VISIT TUNISIA
Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The country can be divided into four seasons:
- Winter (December to February): This is the coolest season with an average temperature of around 14 °C (57 °F). Nights can be quite chilly, especially in the interior regions.
- Spring (March to May): The temperature starts to rise, and the average temperature is around 20 °C (68 °F). This is a good time to visit as the weather is mild and the crowds are not as heavy as in the summer.
- Summer (June to September): This is the hottest season with temperatures ranging between 25 °C (77 °F) and 35 °C (95 °F). This is the peak tourist season, and the beaches and coastal towns can be quite crowded.
- Fall (October to November): This is a transitional season, the temperature starts to cool down, and the average temperature is around 25 °C (77 °F). This is a good time to visit as the weather is still warm, and the crowds have thinned out.
It's worth noting that Tunisia's desert can be hot all year round, so if you're planning to visit the southern part of the country, it's important to be prepared for the heat.
The best time to visit Tunisia will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do during your trip. If you want to enjoy warm weather and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, the best time to visit is from June to September. If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of April to May and October to November are ideal. Keep in mind that Tunisia can be quite hot in July and August, so it may not be the best time to visit for those who are sensitive to heat.
TUNISIA WEATHER SYNOPSIS
Tunisia’s climate varies due to the country’s diverse geography, which can be divided into three regions. The northern mountainous region has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The south has a hot, dry, and semiarid climate as it enters the Sahara Desert, while the eastern coastal border has an arid steppe climate. Rainfall also varies by region, with average annual rainfall at 158 mm per year for the whole country, but less than 100 mm annually in the south and over 700 mm annually in the north. Historically, average temperatures likewise vary seasonally and regionally; in the northern coastal region temperature ranges from a low of 10°C in the winter months (December to February) to a high of 27°C in the summer months (June-August), while in the central western and southern regions temperature ranges from a winter low of 11°C to a summer high of 32°C.
TUNISIA TOURIST SEASONS
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
Peak Season
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SNOW SPORT IN TUNISIA
HIKING & CYCLING IN TUNISIA
You can enjoy outdoor activities in Tunisia from March to October, although the months of July and August can be rather hot.
BEACH OPTIONS IN TUNISIA
Tunisia has some beautiful beaches with a swimming season from May to October. Just be mindful of the jellyfish season which lasts from middle of July to September.
SURFING IN TUNISIA
Tunisia has a fairly unexplored surf coast, but you can find plenty of surf spots and consistent swell during the winter.
KITESURF IN TUNISIA
The most popular place for kitesurfing in Tunisia is the island of Djerba. The best season for kiting is from May to October.
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HEALTH RISKS IN TUNISIA
Be aware of possible health risks in
Tunisia
Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
Zika Virus - Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.
Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.
Dengue - Dengue is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.
TUNISIA TRAVEL COSTS
The cost of travel to Tunisia can vary depending on your travel style and the time of year you visit. Here are some general estimates for various expenses:
- Accommodation: Prices for accommodation in Tunisia range from budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. A budget hotel room can cost around $20-30 per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around $50-70 per night.
- Food: Food in Tunisia is relatively inexpensive, and you can find a good meal at a local restaurant for around $5-10. Street food and fast food options are even cheaper.
- Transportation: Tunisia has a good public transportation system, including buses and trains. A one-way ticket on a long-distance bus or train can cost around $5-10. Taxis are also widely available, and a ride within a city can cost around $5-10.
- Activities: Entry to most museums and historical sites in Tunisia costs around $5-10. Visiting the desert or taking a guided tour can cost around $20-50.
- Visa: Tunisia has a visa-on-arrival policy for most countries, which costs around $30.
It's worth noting that these are just estimates, and costs can vary depending on your specific travel plans. Tunisia can also be a good value for money destination, especially compared to more expensive European countries.
It's always a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small expenses and for places that don't accept credit cards, and also to check with your bank about any additional fees for using your card internationally.
Here are some sample costs for a 5-day budget trip to Tunisia:
- Accommodation: $100-150 for a mid-range hotel room for 5 nights.
- Food: $75-100 for meals at local restaurants and street food.
- Transportation: $25-30 for round-trip train or bus tickets to your destination, and $25-30 for local transportation such as taxis or buses.
- Activities: $50-75 for entry to museums and historical sites, and $50-75 for desert excursions or guided tours.
- Visa: $30 for a visa-on-arrival.
- Total: $280-435
It's worth noting that these costs are just estimates and can vary depending on your specific travel plans. Additionally, this is an approximation of costs for budget-minded travellers, and you can adjust the costs accordingly if you prefer more luxurious accommodations, tours, restaurants and transportation.
You may also want to take into account other expenses like travel insurance, flights, shopping, phone and internet access, tips, etc.
It's always a good idea to plan your budget ahead of time, and to have some extra money set aside for unexpected expenses.
TUNISIA TRAVEL TIPS
Here are some travel tips for Tunisia:
- Dress modestly: Tunisia is a conservative Muslim country, and it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and legs, and men should avoid wearing shorts.
- Learn some basic phrases in Arabic: Tunisians speak Arabic as well as French, but knowing some basic phrases in Arabic will be helpful when communicating with locals.
- Be respectful of local customs: Tunisia has a rich culture and history, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. This includes things like removing your shoes before entering a mosque, and not pointing the soles of your feet towards someone as it's considered rude.
- Be aware of the weather: Tunisia can be quite hot in the summer, so be prepared for the heat and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
- Be prepared for crowds: Tunisia is a popular tourist destination, and some popular attractions can be quite crowded, especially in the summer. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Be prepared for scams: Tunisia, like many other tourist destinations, has its fair share of scams. Be aware of pickpocketing, and be wary of anyone who approaches you offering to take you to "the best shop" or "the best restaurant."
- Currency: Tunisian dinar is the official currency. You can withdraw money from ATMs or exchange currency at banks or exchange offices. Some places may accept Euros or US dollars but it's always best to have Tunisian dinars on hand.
- Be prepared for unexpected situations: It's always a good idea to have a copy of your passport and travel insurance information with you at all times, and to let someone know your itinerary.
- Be respectful of the environment: Tunisia has many beautiful natural sites, and it's important to be mindful of the environment and not leave any trash behind.
- Be open-minded: Tunisia is a fascinating country with a rich culture and history, and it's important to be open-minded and willing to learn about the local way of life.
SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF TUNISIA
Tunisia is a country located in North Africa, and it can be divided into several regions, each with its own unique highlights and attractions.
- The Tunis region: This region includes the capital city of Tunis and its surroundings. The highlights of this region include the ancient city of Carthage, the Bardo Museum, and the medina of Tunis. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its narrow streets, traditional markets, and Islamic architecture.
- The Sahel region: This region is located on the Mediterranean coast and is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches. The highlights of this region include the towns of Hammamet and Monastir, which are popular with tourists for their beaches and resorts.
- The Kairouan region: This region is located in the center of Tunisia and is known for its rich Islamic history. The highlights of this region include the ancient city of Kairouan, which is considered one of the most important Islamic cities in North Africa, and the Great Mosque of Kairouan, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Matmata region: This region is located in the south of Tunisia and is known for its unique troglodyte houses, which are built into the side of hills. The highlights of this region include the towns of Matmata and Tataouine, which are popular with tourists for their Star Wars-related sites, as the region was used as a filming location for the Star Wars movies.
- The Tozeur region: This region is located in the south-west of Tunisia and is known for its desert landscapes and oasis towns. The highlights of this region include the towns of Tozeur and Nefta, which are popular with tourists for their traditional architecture and palm groves.
- The Djerba region: This island is located in the south east of Tunisia and is known for its beaches, resorts, and traditional architecture. The highlights of this region include the towns of Houmt Souk, Erriadh and Ajim, which are popular with tourists for their markets, museums, and synagogues.
- The island of Djerba is a popular tourist destination with its beaches, resorts and traditional architecture.
These are some of the main regions of Tunisia, and each of them has its own unique highlights and attractions.
Tunisia is a country with a rich history and culture, and there are many things to see and do when visiting. Here are some of the best things to see and do when visiting Tunisia:
- Visit the ancient city of Carthage: Carthage is an ancient Phoenician city that was once one of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including the Punic ports, the Antonin Baths, and the Tophet.
- Explore the medina of Tunis: The medina of Tunis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its narrow streets, traditional markets, and Islamic architecture. Visitors can wander through the medina and explore the many shops, cafes, and traditional crafts.
- Visit the Bardo Museum: The Bardo Museum is located in Tunis and has one of the most important collections of Roman mosaics in the world, as well as other artifacts from Tunisia's history.
- Take a day trip to the island of Djerba: The island of Djerba is located off the coast of Tunisia and is known for its beaches, resorts, and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the island's markets, museums, and synagogues.
- Visit the ancient city of Kairouan: Kairouan is considered one of the most important Islamic cities in North Africa, and visitors can explore the Great Mosque of Kairouan, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as other historic sites such as the Aghlabid Basins and the Ribat.
- Explore the desert landscapes: Tunisia has some stunning desert landscapes, and visitors can take a desert excursion or a camel trek to explore the dunes and the oasis towns.
- Visit the southern towns of Matmata and Tataouine: These towns are known for their unique troglodyte houses, which are built into the side of hills. Visitors can explore the underground houses and learn about the traditional way of life in the region.
- Explore the coastal towns of Hammamet and Monastir: These towns are popular with tourists for their beaches and resorts, visitors can also explore the ancient medina of Monastir, the Ribat and the Bourghiba Mausoleum.
- Experience the traditional Tunisian Hammam: Hammam is a traditional bathhouse and spa experience that is an important part of Tunisian culture. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in a hammam, where they will be treated to a steam bath, exfoliation, and massage.
- Visit the southern towns of Tozeur and Nefta: These towns are known for their palm groves, traditional architecture, and oasis. Visitors can explore the palm groves and the traditional market of Tozeur, as well as the many historic sites in the region such as the Dar Chraiet Museum.
These are just some of the many things to see and do when visiting Tunisia. The country offers a variety of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and historical sites to relaxing on the beach and experiencing traditional culture.
WHAT TO EAT IN TUNISIA
When visiting Tunisia, you will have the opportunity to try a variety of delicious and flavorful traditional dishes. Here are some popular dishes to try when visiting Tunisia:
- Couscous: Couscous is a staple food in Tunisia and is made from semolina wheat and is often served with vegetables and meat or fish.
- Brik: Brik is a traditional Tunisian pastry made from a thin pastry dough filled with tuna, egg and harissa.
- Tajine: Tajine is a traditional stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is often served with couscous.
- Harissa: Harissa is a popular Tunisian chili paste made from a blend of chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices.
- Shorba: Shorba is a popular Tunisian soup made with a variety of ingredients such as tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables.
- Bsisa: Bsisa is a traditional Tunisian porridge made from ground wheat, barley, or chickpeas, mixed with honey and spices.
- Merguez: Merguez is a traditional Tunisian sausage made from lamb or beef and flavored with spices such as cumin and paprika.
- Zlabia: Zlabia is a sweet Tunisian pastry made from deep-fried dough and dipped in honey syrup.
- Dates: Dates are a common fruit in Tunisia, and you can find them in many traditional markets and street vendors. They are also used in many traditional Tunisian dishes.
- Mint tea: Mint tea is a popular drink in Tunisia, it is often served after meals and is a symbol of hospitality.
These are just a few of the many delicious traditional dishes you can try when visiting Tunisia. The country's cuisine is a blend of various cultures and civilizations that have passed through the region, such as Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Arabic and Ottoman, so expect a diverse and flavorful culinary experience.
LGBTQ IN TUNISIA
WHERE TO STAY IN TUNISIA
When visiting Tunisia for the first time, your choice of area or region largely depends on your interests and what you wish to explore. Here are some options along with reasons and accommodation suggestions for each:
Where to Stay In Tunis
Reason to choose: Tunis, the capital city, offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity. It's home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Budget accommodation: Hotel Carlton - Located in the heart of Tunis, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to attractions like the Medina and Bardo Museum.
Mid-range accommodation: Dar El Medina - Situated within the Medina, this charming hotel provides a traditional Tunisian experience with well-appointed rooms and authentic décor.
Luxury accommodation: The Residence Tunis - Nestled along the coast of Gammarth, this luxurious resort offers elegant rooms, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Where to Stay In Hammamet
Reason to choose: Hammamet is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.
Budget accommodation: Hotel Nesrine - Offering affordable rooms and a prime beachfront location, this hotel provides a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Mid-range accommodation: Iberostar Averroes - Situated on Yasmine Hammamet Beach, this hotel features comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and a range of leisure facilities.
Luxury accommodation: La Badira - Known for its sleek design, luxurious amenities, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean, this 5-star hotel offers an indulgent stay experience.
Where to Stay In Sousse
Reason to choose: Sousse is a coastal city known for its ancient medina, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
Budget accommodation: Marhaba Beach Hotel - Located near the beach and the medina, this budget-friendly hotel offers simple yet comfortable accommodations for travelers.
Mid-range accommodation: Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort & Spa - Set along a beautiful stretch of coastline, this resort provides spacious rooms, excellent dining options, and a relaxing spa.
Luxury accommodation: Riadh Palms- Resort & Spa - Offering luxurious rooms and suites with sea views, this hotel provides upscale amenities and a convenient location near the medina and port.
Each of these areas in Tunisia offers its own unique experiences, whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or indulging in luxury accommodations. Choose the one that best aligns with your preferences and interests for a memorable trip to Tunisia.
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