Tunisia Explored

Welcome to Tunisia! Upon arrival at Tunis airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Tunis has always been a resilient and forward-looking settlement, one that makes an excellent starting point for any exploration of Tunisia. Now littered with artsy cafes and boutique hotels, the old is entwined with the new making this a buzzing city to explore. Stay: Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar (D)

Begin your day at the renowned Bardo Museum, home to one of the world's most significant collections of Roman mosaics. Explore its vast galleries, where ancient artifacts reveal Tunisia's deep historical layers, from Phoenician relics to Islamic art.

Continue to the UNESCO-listed Medina of Tunis, a maze of lively souks, intricate tilework, and architectural gems. Immerse yourself in the energy of the old city, where artisans craft everything from delicate ceramics to ornate metalwork, keeping centuries-old traditions alive.

Step into Tunisia's rich culinary heritage with a guided market visit alongside a skilled local chef. Handpick fragrant spices and fresh produce before rolling up your sleeves for an interactive cooking experience. Prepare a traditional Tunisian feast, then savour your creation in the heart of the Medina.

In the afternoon, take part in a hands-on chechia workshop, where you'll learn the craftsmanship behind Tunisia's iconic woollen cap. Under the guidance of local artisans, shape and dye your own chechia, gaining insight into its cultural significance. As evening falls, return to your accommodation within the Medina. Stay: Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar (B/L/D)

Begin your day exploring the remarkable ruins of Bulla Regia, an ancient Roman city unlike any other. Delve into its unique underground villas, ingeniously designed to shield residents from the relentless

North African heat. Wander through centuries-old corridors, where intricate mosaics and well-preserved structures offer a glimpse into daily life in this once-thriving settlement. Continue to Domaine Ben Ismail, home to Tunisia's finest bio olive oils. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch paired with an expert-led tasting, where you'll uncover the nuances of award-winning oils and the family's time-honoured production techniques.

In the afternoon, journey to Dougga, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman cities in North Africa. Set against rolling hills, Dougga's towering Capitol, grand theatre, and imposing temples stand as a testament to its former glory. Lose yourself in its ancient streets, where echoes of the past whisper through the ruins. Stay: Hotel Thugga or similar (B/L/D)

Depart Dougga and journey to Kairouan, Tunisia's spiritual heart and a city steeped in centuries of tradition. Your first stop is the impressive Aghlabid Basins, a marvel of medieval engineering that once ensured the city's water supply. Stand in awe of these vast reservoirs, a testament to the ingenuity of the Aghlabid dynasty.

Continue to the Great Mosque of Okba, one of North Africa's most revered Islamic monuments. Wander through its grand courtyards and intricate colonnades, absorbing the timeless beauty of its architecture. As you step inside, feel the weight of history in this sacred space, a cornerstone of Islamic heritage.

Venture into the lively Medina of Kairouan, where narrow alleyways lead to bustling souks brimming with vibrant textiles and handmade crafts. Witness the meticulous artistry of local carpet weavers as they bring intricate designs to life, preserving traditions passed down through generations.

Immerse yourself in Kairouan's culinary heritage with a hands-on Makroudh workshop. Learn the delicate craft of preparing this beloved Tunisian sweet, blending semolina, dates, and honey into a treat that carries the city's essence. Then, step into the world of essential oils at a local workshop, where skilled artisans reveal the secrets of transforming natural ingredients into soothing massage oils. The evening is yours at leisure. Stay: Dar Allouini or similar (B)

Depart Kairouan and journey towards the desert landscapes of southern Tunisia, stopping first at the remarkable ruins of Sbeitla. Once a thriving Roman city, Sbeitla's remarkably preserved temples, baths, and forum showcase Tunisia's deep historical roots. Wander through the ancient streets, where towering columns and intricate mosaics whisper stories of the past.

Continue your expedition into the rugged beauty of Tunisia's mountain oases—Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides. In Chebika, follow winding trails through a dramatic canyon where palm trees thrive alongside a cascading waterfall, creating an oasis of lush greenery amidst the arid landscape. Tamerza unveils vast, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, while Mides enchants with its deep, sculpted canyons—nature's own masterpiece carved over millennia.

As the sun dips below the horizon, arrive in the desert city of Tozeur. Settle in for the evening, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this gateway to the Sahara, where the scent of date palms fills the air. Stay: Dar El Hadir or similar (B/D)

Step into a galaxy far, far away as you begin your day at Ong Jmal, home to the legendary Star Wars Mos Espa set and the iconic Lars Homestead. Wander through these cinematic landscapes, where the desert's vastness creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Continue to Bouhlel Mountain, also known as “Star Wars Canyon,” where a scenic hike unveils breathtaking rock formations and panoramic desert views.

Pause at Chott Djerid, a mesmerising salt lake famed for its shimmering mirages and mirror-like reflections—an unmissable photo opportunity capturing the surreal beauty of Tunisia's desert. The adventure intensifies as you embark on a thrilling off-roading experience, navigating the shifting dunes towards the remote expanse of Tembaïne.

Arrive at Camp Abdelmoula just as the sun sets, casting the desert in golden hues. Settle into your royal tent, complete with private facilities, offering a perfect balance of comfort and authenticity. As night falls, gather around the campfire for an immersive cultural experience—baking khobz el mellla, traditional bread cooked in the sand, while sharing stories under the starlit Saharan sky. Stay: Camp Abdelmoula or similar (B/D)

Begin your day with an exhilarating off-road journey through the dunes as you leave Tembaïne for Douz. Your first stop is Ksar Hallouf, an ancient Berber fortress showcasing remarkable ingenuity. Explore its historic granaries and take in sweeping views of the rugged landscape.

Continue to Chenini, a picturesque village carved into the mountainside. Lace up for a guided hike through its historic dwellings and storied past, culminating in a visit to the Mosque of the Seven Sleepers, steeped in legend and tradition. Journey onwards to Douiret, where the serenity of its troglodyte dwellings and panoramic surroundings offers a peaceful retreat. Conclude your day at Ksar Ouled Debbab, an authentic heritage accommodation where you'll enjoy a taste of traditional Berber hospitality and cuisine. Stay: Ksar Ouled Debbab or similar (B/D)

This morning, visit the striking Ksar Ouled Soltane, one of Tunisia's best-preserved granaries. Marvel at its tiered, honeycomb-like chambers that tell the story of Berber resilience and architectural brilliance.

Continue to Djerba, where the Guellela Museum offers a deep dive into the island's cultural heritage. Explore its rich displays of craftsmanship, folklore, and traditions before an optional pottery workshop, where you can try your hand at creating your own piece of Djerban artistry. Enjoy a relaxed evening settling into your accommodation on this island oasis, soaking in the blend of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences that make Djerba so unique. Stay: Dar Dhiafa or similar (B)

Begin the day at the historic Synagogue of El Ghriba, one of the oldest Jewish sites in North Africa, offering a glimpse into Tunisia's diverse cultural makeup. Wander through Djerbahood, an open-air museum where international street artists have transformed the walls of this traditional village into a colourful story of Tunisia's past and present.

Continue to Matmata, famed for its troglodyte dwellings—subterranean homes carved into the earth to provide respite from the desert heat. Delve into Berber traditions and explore these extraordinary structures before heading to El Jem, home to the imposing Roman amphitheatre.

Visit the Dar El Jem Museum, which houses an exceptional collection of Roman mosaics and artifacts. An optional mosaic workshop allows you to create a piece of art inspired by ancient techniques. Conclude your day in Mahdia, a charming coastal town where you'll enjoy a relaxed evening reflecting on Tunisia's rich historical tapestry. Stay: Dar Evelyne or similar (B)

Begin with a deep dive into Tunisia's Roman past at the El Jem Amphitheatre, one of the world's best-preserved examples of Roman engineering. Wander its vast corridors and imagine the spectacles that once unfolded within its walls.

Continue to Sousse, where the Essid Museum and the Archaeological Museum unveil treasures spanning Tunisia's Punic, Roman, and Islamic past. Explore the UNESCO-listed Medina of Sousse, a maze of bustling souks and historic alleyways, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life. End your day with a traditional dinner, embracing the coastal charm of Tunisia's Cap Bon region. Stay: Dar El Gaied or similar (B/D)

Start your day exploring the vibrant Medina of Nabeul, known for its pottery and artisanal crafts. Opt to join a harissa workshop, where you'll master the art of making Tunisia's famed spicy condiment.

Continue to the UNESCO-listed site of Kerkouane, an exceptionally well-preserved Punic city that offers rare insight into Carthaginian life before the Roman era.

In the afternoon, head to Korbus, a hidden gem renowned for its natural hot springs and coastal beauty. Why not indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, soaking in the mineral-rich waters as you unwind in this tranquil retreat? Settle in for the night, letting the gentle sea breeze lull you into relaxation. Stay: Royal Tulip Korbus or similar (B/D)

Your journey culminates in the historic heart of Tunisia, beginning with the ancient ruins of Carthage. Once the centre of a mighty empire, these evocative remnants tell the story of Carthage's rise and fall through its Roman baths, amphitheatre, and Punic ports.

Continue on a scenic bike tour through the area, uncovering hidden archaeological gems before heading to the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said. With its striking blue-and-white architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning sea views, this artist's haven is the perfect place to conclude your adventure. Visit Dar Annabi, a traditional Tunisian house offering a window into local customs, and the Baron d'Erlanger Palace, an architectural masterpiece blending Moorish and Art Deco influences.

As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, enjoy your final evening in Tunisia. Stay: Dar Said Hotel or similar (B)

This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)