Adventurous 8-Day Itinerary in Tunisia

  • Day 1: Medjerda Valley
    45 minutes (20 miles) from Tunis

    Discover the breathtaking natural scenery of the Medjerda Valley with its deep gorges, lush forests, and pristine rivers. You can go on a thrilling rafting adventure, hike to hidden waterfalls, or explore the Roman bridges and ruins scattered across the area.

  • Day 2: Bulla Regia
    2 hours (79 miles) from Medjerda Valley

    Explore the fascinating Roman ruins of Bulla Regia, a once-prosperous city known for its underground villas and mosaics. Be sure to check out the impressive theater, forum, and public baths.

  • Day 3: Kairouan
    2 hours (97 miles) from Bulla Regia

    Discover the spiritual heart of Tunisia at Kairouan, one of Islam's holiest cities. Visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site with great souks and handicrafts. You can also climb the minaret for a panoramic view of the city.

  • Day 4: Matmata
    3 hours (135 miles) from Kairouan

    Step into Luke Skywalker's childhood home and explore the unique underground troglodyte dwellings of Matmata. See the traditional Berber houses, visit the Star Wars sets, and enjoy a delicious couscous in one of the local restaurants.

  • Day 5: Douz
    1.5 hours (57 miles) from Matmata

    Experience the thrills of the Sahara Desert at Douz, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara". Take a camel trek, an ATV tour or a sunset hike, and camp in a Bedouin tent under the stars.

  • Day 6: Tozeur
    .
    1.5 hours (54 miles) from Douz

    Take a break from the desert heat and visit the palm tree oasis of Tozeur. Check out the Chak Wak museum, stroll around the medina, and take a horse-drawn carriage to the nearby Chebika, Tamerza and Mides canyons.

  • Day 7: Ichkeul National Park
    3 hours (142 miles) from Tozeur

    End your trip with a visit to the stunning Ichkeul National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its wetlands, birdlife, and stunning landscapes. You can hike, bike or boat around the park, and visit the museum to learn about the local ecology and history.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Rafting in Medjerda Valley (4 hours, $50)
  • Bulla Regia entrance fee (2 hours, $5)
  • Kairouan Mosque entrance fee (3 hours, $10)
  • Star Wars sets tour in Matmata (2 hours, $20)
  • Camel trek in Douz (4 hours, $30)
  • Chak Wak museum entrance fee in Tozeur (2 hours, $8)
  • Ichkeul National Park entrance fee (5 hours, $15)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $133

Transportation

You can rent a car or hire a private driver to get around Tunisia. Roads are generally in good condition, but be prepared for occasional speed bumps and livestock crossings. Avoid driving at night, and make sure to carry enough water and snacks during long drives. Domestic flights and trains are also available, but their schedules may be limited.

Estimated transportation costs: $250, 19 hours

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to the historic city of Carthage, the Bardo Museum in Tunis, or the blue and white village of Sidi Bou Said. For a beach break, head to Hammamet or Monastir. If you have less time, consider skipping Kairouan or Tozeur or combining some of the other destinations.

Airports

The main international airport in Tunisia is Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN), located about 5 miles northeast of Tunis. It serves major airlines such as Air France, British Airways, and Lufthansa, and several regional airlines such as Tunisair, Air Arabia, and Royal Air Maroc. The airport has a taxi rank and car rental services.

0