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Kairouan, Tunisia by Haythem Gataa on Unsplash.

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Tunisia Travel Notes

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Experience the contrasting beauty of Tunisia's landscapes. Explore the vast Sahara Desert, unwind on stunning beaches, and discover hidden oases.

About Tunisia

Tunisia is known for its diverse landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Despite some safety concerns, it remains a popular destination for tourism.

Countries neighbouring Tunisia: Algeria and Libya.

Travel Map Mapping Tunisia

Map of Tunisia

Map of Tunisia

Tunisia is often thought of as the sun and sand capital of North Africa, and with over 1,200 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline that notion is not far wrong.

The capital city of Tunisia is Tunis, which is also the largest city in the country. Other major cities include Sfax, Sousse, and Gabès.

Tunisia Overview

Tunisia, officially known as the Republic of Tunisia, is a country located on North Africa's Mediterranean coast, borderd by Algeria to the west and Libya to the south-east.

Challenges

Like many countries, Tunisia faces challenges such as unemployment, especially among young people, economic inequality, and political instability.

Additionally, security concerns and regional instability have posed significant challenges to the country's development.

However, Tunisia continues to work towards addressing these issues and building a more prosperous future for its citizens.

Culture

Tunisian culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean influences.

The country is known for its vibrant music, cuisine, and traditional handicrafts such as pottery and carpet weaving.

Islam is the predominant religion in Tunisia, and Arabic is the country's official language.

Economy

Tunisia's economy is diverse, with sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and tourism playing important roles.

Agriculture employs a significant portion of the population, while industries such as textiles, chemicals, and mechanical goods contribute to the country's exports.

Tourism, particularly along the coastal areas, is also a major source of revenue for Tunisia.

History

Tunisia has a rich history dating back thousands of years.

It was once home to ancient civilisations such as the Phoenicians, Romans, and Carthaginians.

In more recent history, Tunisia was a French protectorate from 1881 until it gained independence in 1956; making it one of the first countries in Africa to achieve independence from colonial rule.

Politics

Tunisia is a parliamentary republic with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government.

The country has made significant strides towards democracy since the ousting of its longtime president, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, during the 2011 Tunisian Revolution.

Tunisia adopted a new constitution in 2014, establishing a democratic system of government.

Tourism

Tunisia's coastline along the Mediterranean Sea, with its beautiful beaches and historical sites such as the ruins of Carthage and the ancient city of Dougga, makes it a popular tourist destination.

However, the tourism industry faced challenges following security concerns in the wake of the 2015 terrorist attacks.

Efforts have been made to revitalise the sector and attract visitors back to the country.

Visiting Tunisia

Visitors to Tunisia can enjoy a rich history and culture, alongside the country's natural beauty.

Before planning a visit to Tunisia, it is essential to check the latest travel advisories and safety precautions.

Tunisia Highlights

Always respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Carthage

Just a short distance from Tunis lies the ancient city of Carthage, once a powerful Phoenician trading empire.

Visit the archaeological sites, including the Roman theatre, Roman villas, and the Carthage Museum, which provides insight into the city's rich history.

Douz

For a taste of the Sahara desert, visit Douz, known as the 'Gateway to the Sahara'.

Experience a camel trek into the desert, watch the sunset over the sand dunes, and spend a night camping under the stars in a traditional Bedouin tent.

El Djem

Marvel at the impressive Roman amphitheatre in El Djem, one of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.

Explore the underground chambers, imagine gladiator battles, and enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the amphitheatre.

Matmata

Explore the unique underground troglodyte dwellings in Matmata, where some Berber communities still live.

Visit a troglodyte house, learn about local customs and traditions, and enjoy a meal of traditional Tunisian cuisine.

Tunis

Start your journey in the capital city, Tunis.

Explore the medina (old town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow alleys, historic mosques, and bustling souks (markets).

Don't miss the Bardo Museum, which houses one of the finest collections of Roman mosaics in the world.

Sidi Bou Said

This charming village is known for its whitewashed buildings with blue doors and windows, stunning sea views, and artistic ambiance.

Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, browse the art galleries, and enjoy a traditional mint tea in one of the quaint cafes.

Sousse

Head to the coastal city of Sousse, home to a well-preserved Medina and the impressive Ribat; a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Relax on the sandy beaches or explore the Archaeological Museum of Sousse, which showcases artifacts from Roman and Byzantine times.

Tunisian Cuisine

Sample the delicious flavours of Tunisian cuisine, which blends North African, Mediterranean, and Arabic influences.

Try dishes such as couscous, brik (a savoury pastry filled with egg and tuna), mechouia (grilled vegetable salad), and tajine (slow-cooked stew).

Tunisia's Mediterranean Coast

Tunisia's Mediterranean coast is indented by many harbours and inlets, notably the gulfs of Tunis, Hammamet, and Gabes.

The Carthaginian Empire once dominated most of northern Africa and at times the southern part of the Iberian Peninsula, Corsica, Sardinia, and parts of Sicily.

The expanding Roman Empire finally defeated the Carthaginians and sacked their capital during the last of the three Punic Wars (149-146 BC).

Most of what is now Tunisia then became part of the Roman Empire, until the Vandals came over from the Iberian Peninsula some three hundred years later.

Arabs took control of the area in the 7th century, and replaced the Roman-Christian culture with Islam.

It was during this period that the area became known as Tunisia.

 Discover Tunisia

Tunisia is a captivating destination unlike any other. One that will surprise and delight you in so many memorable ways.

And with a variety of hotels from all inclusive resorts to luxury and boutique hotels, it’s also one of the best value destinations on the Mediterranean with something for everyone.

Carthage

Today a wealthy suburb of Tunis, Carthage is an important archaeological discovery also attracting many tourists.

The digs have revealed early Phoenician artefacts and buildings from Roman and Byzantine times with well preserved floor mosaics from the 3rd and 4th centuries AD.

The city was probably established as a Phoenician trading post towards the end of the 9th century BC.

The earliest artefacts unearthed by archaeologists at the site date from 800 BC.

The National Museum of Carthage is located on the Byrsa Hill.

Tunis

The capital of Tunisia is divided into two parts: the old, walled, Muslim quarter; and the newer, European district.

Map of Tunis

Map of Tunis

The modern city of Tunis was built while Tunisia was under French rule (1881-1956), hence known as the European District.

Streets in the old town are narrow and winding, with interesting bazaars and admirable mosques.

Bardo Museum

The old Palace of the Bey houses a museum of arts, antiquities and interesting mosaics.

Where to Stay in Tunisia

Hotels in Tunis.

The Sahara Desert

Southern Tunisia contains the Sahara Desert.

About 40 per cent of the country's land area is sand, and camel caravans are still used as a means of transportation where water is scarce.

Around Tunisia

Adventures of Tunisia

Tunisia is one of Africa's most exciting and accessible destinations.

Tunisian Language and Culture

The official language of Tunisia is Arabic, although French and English are also spoken among the educated and in tourist areas.

Tunisians are essentially of Berber stock, who have come to regard themselves as Arabs; the Berber language is spoken by less than 2 per cent of the population.

Jerba Island - Kerkennah Islands.

Tunisia Maps and Travel Guides

Tunisia (Bradt Travel Guides) Tunisia Map

Tunisia Travel Guides - Tunisia Maps.

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Local weather forecasts for destinations around Africa.

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