Our Tunisia tour reveals a bounteous country that has played a highly significant role in world history.
Home to a civilization that rivalled the Roman Empire, Carthage was eventually conquered and resettled into a sprawling metropolis.
The influence of the Roman Empire still lingers in the many temples and theatres that are still standing.
The world as it once was shines through smaller details, such as visible ridges carved into stone streets where chariot wheels made their mark.
It is no wonder that this land held such appeal for so powerful an empire; the beautiful lakes and hills make for a beautiful oasis.
It seems that the land has so much to offer that the residents of Matmata have taken full advantage by building their homes right into the sandstone hillsides.
A country so spectacular in natural beauty is only made more alluring by architectural crowning achievements, such as the remains of massive aqueducts that once ran for a whopping 80 km.
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
Optional Single Supplement: $650 USD (number of singles limited).
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Day 1 Arrive in Tunis
Arrival in Tunis.
Tunis, the capital of the country, is a bustling metropolis and the home of one-sixth of the country’s population. Situated in the Gulf of Tunis on the Mediterranean Sea, the modern city extends along the coastal plains and to the surrounding hills. It is a city of many contrasts, with its modern office buildings, shopping malls and European cafes, the colonial French style of the Ville Nouvelle, and the dynamic Arab souks of Tunis' old Medina.
Overnight in Tunis.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Tunis: The Medina, Bardo Museum, Sidi Bou Said & Carthage
We begin the day with a walking tour through one of two UNESCO sites we visit today (two of the eight in the entire country) -- the old medina of Tunis with its narrow lanes crowded with mosques, tombs, and palaces. This was Tunis until the arrival of the French in the late 19th century, who subsequently built their quarters outside of the "Sea Gate" -- now the Ville Nouvelle. En route we will see the Great Mosque of Tunis, Jemaa Zitouna, and the elegant Place du Gouvernement.
We then visit the Bardo Museum, which houses the largest and finest collection of ancient mosaics in the world. These mosaics were discovered in the wealthiest of Roman villas in the many ancient cities found in Tunisia. Rich patrons commissioned a vast array of subjects and themes, from scenes of gods and goddesses, daily life (hunting, fishing, harvesting), the zodiac, seasons, amphitheatre games. From their exquisite details, we can understand why the North African school of mosaicists was the finest in the ancient world, and whose masterpieces can be found throughout the Mediterranean.
We then head to Sidi Bou Said, a charming hilltop village famous for its beautifully decorated blue and white architecture. Visited by the likes of Cervantes, Simone de Beauvoir and Jean Foucault, Sidi Bou Said made an indelible impression on the works of Paul Klee, August Macke and Louis Moilliet who stayed here together in 1914. You will have some free time for lunch and to explore this beautiful village overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
We continue to Carthage – the legendary city of Queen Dido and Hannibal (today's second UNESCO site ). We will begin with a visit to the ancient Punic cemetery -- the Tophet, or sanctuary to Baal and Tanit. Roman propaganda, hostile to their enemy, stated that the Carthaginians ritually sacrificed their children here to the gods. Our next stop is the Punic ports, once the foundation of Carthage's prosperity. Here we see the remains of what was once a sophisticated naval harbour, complete with ship sheds for dry-docking their warships, and a elaborate merchant harbor, for their fleets of cargo ships which engaged in trade throughout the Mediterranean. From here we visit Byrsa hill -- the ancient acropolis and the first area to be settled by the Phoenicians. Crowning the hill is the 19th century Cathedral of St. Louis and the Carthage museum with finds excavated from the city. Our final stop is the Antonine Baths -- the monumental public baths of the city. In the 2nd century AD, these were the largest baths in North Africa and the 3rd largest in the Roman world.
Overnight in Tunis.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 3 Tunis - Bulla Regia & Dougga - Tunis
We leave Tunis early this morning for Bulla Regia. This ancient site is famous for its unique subterranean villas, which belonged to the wealthiest of its inhabitants; we descend to see these luxurious villas and their splendid floor mosaics, still in situ.
After lunch we continue to Dougga, the best-preserved Roman city in Tunisia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monumental Capitolium temple stands in the city's Forum, with a breathtaking view over the green rolling hills and plains below. The theaters, gymnasia, baths, shops, stone paved streets and lavish villas are all testimony to the golden age this North African city enjoyed during the Roman era.
Overnight in Tunis.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4 Tunis - Kairouan: City Touring
This morning we head to Kairouan, travelling through the fertile valleys and rolling hills of the North. Since antiquity to the present, Tunisia is still referred to by other Maghreb countries by the epithet, "Tunisia the Green." This area is a favorite haven for storks, who build their nest on top of telephone towers, minarets and rooftops. We head toward into the Sahel, the transitional barren region between the fertile north and the Sahara desert to the south.
The Holy City of Kairouan is not only the spiritual center of Tunisia, it is the first Islamic city to be established in North Africa, and the 4th oldest Muslim city outside of Arabia. Founded as the capital of the region in 670 AD by the Arab general Oqba ibn Nafi, Kairouan soon acquired magnificent ramparts, mosques, palaces and hammams. Our first stop is the Aghlabid basins, enormous artificial reservoirs constructed in the 9th century to store water for Kairouan, as part of a monumental system in which water was brought by aqueducts to the city from 36km away.
We visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the oldest, largest and most important mosque in Tunisia. The lowest story of the towering minaret is thought to date to 730 AD, one century earlier than the structure of the present mosque. Inside we will see the colonnaded courtyard with its ancient wellheads and sundials, and the forest of columns of the prayer sanctuary. The hundreds of columns all differ from one another, in marble types, size, shape and capital designs, since most were taken from ancient Roman sites and reused in the mosque's construction. Our final stop before leaving Kairouan is the Mausoleum of Sidi Sahab, also known as the Mosque of the Barber.
We finish our day with a walking tour of old medina of Kairouan -- the entire medina is protected by UNESCO. Meandering through the lanes, we will stop to admire the beautiful traditional doors and architectural styles, the main monuments, markets, pastry shops and traditional workshops.
Overnight in Kairouan.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5 Kairouan - Sbeitla - Tozeur
We continue to the spectacular Roman city of Sufeitula -- modern Sbeitla. The Roman civic center is incredibly photogenic, due to the excellent state of preservation its three monumental temples dedicated to Juno, Jupiter and Minerva towering over the Forum. Sbeitla, like other North African cities, prospered in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD under the Pax Romana. Upon entering the site, we will see olive press -- one of many in the city, since the inhabitants here became extremely wealthy from the trade of olives and olive oil. After visiting the forum and its temples, we will walk through Sbeitla's stone paved streets to see the public baths, the theater, and numerous Christian basilicas with their elaborate baptisteries covered in colourful mosaics.
Heading south, we arrive in the late afternoon at the fascinating oasis town of Tozeur. In medieval times, Tozeur was an important cultural and market center, due to its strategic location on the caravan routes. Merchants from North and West Africa gathered in this thriving oasis, trade such goods as wool, dates, gold, ivory, salt and slaves. Some of the finest dates of the world are grown in the region, the deglat nour or "finger of light". Medieval accounts state that over 1,000 camels used to leave here per day, laden only with dates!
On arrival we will visit the palmerie to view the various crops being grown and to absorb the oasis atmosphere.
Overnight in Tozeur.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6 Tozeur - Douz - Matmata - Djerba
Our journey continues eastwards across Chott El Jerid, Tunisia's largest salt lake, extending over 5,000km2. The chott lies 30m below sea level, and is a remnant from over 1.5 million years ago when the area was flooded by the sea. Water on the surface of the salt floor reflects strange hues of pink and yellow, and the refraction of light on this depression often creates mirages.
Our next stop is Douz, the "Gateway of the Sahara", another ancient oasis town surrounded by vast expanses of sand dunes. The final leg of our journey takes us to the legendary island of Djerba, where we will spend the first of two nights. Our drive takes us through one of the main olive growing regions of the country; Tunisia has over 65 million olive trees (6 for each inhabitant!) and is currently the 4th largest exporter of olive oil in the world.
We stop at Matmata, where the inhabitants live in rock-hewn dwellings ("troglodyte" homes), some of which are over 400 years old. We will visit the pit dwelling of a local family who will happily show us around. We will also stop to see the cave home which appeared in the first Star Wars film (1977) and was later converted into Hotel Sidi Driss.
Overnight in Djerba.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 The Isle of Djerba
We will spend the morning exploring the sites of this splendid island, the country's most recently-named UNESCO site. Originally settled by the Phoenicians, the isle of Djerba is the mythical place where Odysseus encountered the Lotus Eaters during his journey back home from Troy. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Vandals, Normans, Arabs, Spaniards, and Ottoman Turks -- all have come to Djerba and left their footprint. Historically Djerba has been known for its sponge fishing and agriculture -- here we can find olive trees which are over 1000 years old. The island today is one of Tunisia’s most famous resorts, with its small villages, charming towns, and 125 km of sandy beaches. Today’s inhabitants of Djerba are culturally distinct from mainland Tunisians, and are proud of their customs, dress and dialect.
Our first visit is the excellent ethnographic Museum of Patrimonie, which celebrates the island’s peoples and traditions. Here we will see displays of marriage festivals and traditional wedding dresses from various parts of the country, traditional costumes of the island, circumcision ceremonies, household and agricultural implements, and displays of typical arts of weaving, calligraphy, jewelry and metalwork. We proceed to the center of Guellala, the pottery producing center of the island where we stop to see the kilns and workshops. Next is El Ghriba ("The Miracle") synagogue: one of the oldest synagogues and most important Jewish pilgrimage sites in the world. Djerba is home to one of the world’s most ancient Jewish communities: tradition states that they arrived here after the First Destruction of the Temple by Nebuchadnezzar in 566 BC. This holy synagogue is fascinating for its historic and spiritual importance, as well as for its distinctive style of architecture (a marvelous blend of Jewish, Tunisian, Maghrebian and Sephardic elements). We proceed to the main town Houmt Souq, where first we shall stop to see the medieval fort, Borj el Kebir; this was the scene of a bloody conflict in 1560 between the forces of Dragut, the Barbary corsair, and Philip II of Spain. In town, we will explore the fruit and vegetable markets, watch the excitement at the daily fish auctions, and wander the narrow lanes and souqs. You will have free time to explore more of this charming town, perhaps do some shopping and have lunch at one of the many restaurants in the center.
The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. You may wish to stay in Houmt Souq, go to the beach, or relax at the hotel.
Overnight in Djerba.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8 Djerba - Sfax
Our drive continues to the coastal city of Sfax where we arrrive in time for a walk though the medina. This is the second largest city in Tunisia; today Sfax a major commercial and manufacturing centre (mainly of olive oil, almonds, phosphates and textiles) with very little tourism. Inside the massive 9th century ramparts of the old walled city, is the country's finest "living and working" medina.
On arrival we'll walk through the medina of Sfax; part of the Blacksmith's souq was featured in the film, 'The English Patient.' We will do a walk through the historic lanes, markets and workshops before continuing inland to El Djem (ancient Thysdrus).
Overnight in Sfax.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9 Sfax - El Djem - Monastir - Tunis
Today we travel to the impressive site of El Djem, the final UNESCO site featured on our tour.
Our first El Djem visit is the excellent Archaeological Museum, with its splendid collection of floor mosaics from the villas of the wealthiest inhabitants of El Djem. Just behind the museum is the House of Africa, an opulent villa covering over 3000 sq m which was found in the center of town, dismantled and moved here in its entirety. The villa is named after one of its excellent fine floor mosaics depicting the Goddess of Africa (the only mosaic of its kind in the world).
The sudden appearance of the massive Roman Amphitheatre is an extraordinary sight. With a capacity of 30,000 spectators, it rises 3 stories above the surrounding plains -- though smaller than the Colosseum in Rome, it is in many ways more impressive due to its excellent state of preservation. It was built during the reigns of the (usurper) Emperors Gordion I and his son, Gordian II, both of whom reigned for only a few weeks before being defeated by the legions sent from Rome. Wild beast fights, gladiatorial combats, circuses and games were held here. We climb up to the upper tiers for excellent views of the arena and surrounding countryside, before descending to the basement to see the chambers where scenery, gladiators, prisoners and wild animals were kept. Wild animals were hoisted by a sophisticated (if not theatrical) system of elevators and pulleys into the arena to the delight of the spectators.
Returning to the coast, we go to Monastir to see the 8th century ribat, a kind of fortified Islamic monastery, after which the city is named. The Ribat of Monastir affords wonderful views of the city and the sea. North African ribats were built when the inhabitants were threatened by invading European armies; they served not only a military but religious purpose as well, as fortresses and places of prayer and study for devout soldiers. This spectacular ribat served as a backdrop in numerous films, including Monty Python's 'Life of Brian' and Zeffirelli's 'Jesus of Nazareth.'
Overnight in Tunis.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10 Departure
Departure from Tunis.
BON VOYAGE!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner (hotels & local restaurants) daily. All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving / late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international (if applicable) excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on optional meal costs and shopping.
Seasonality and Weather
This tour is offered in spring and late fall when temperatures are mild, crowds thinner, and airfares lower. Spring is popular with visitors who enjoy green landscapes and wildflowers. The region has a mild Mediterranean climate with early springs and autumns that are bright but cool. Showers are possible in spring and possible in fall.
Transport and Travel Conditions
Transport throughout by private air-conditioned motor coach, 24-36 seats depending on ultimate group size (see 'group size'). Though we will have some full bus days, road travel is not particularly arduous as there are plenty of stops of interest. Roads are in good condition. Short ferry crossing to Djerba. Walking tours on uneven surfaces.
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Accommodation
Well-located, air- conditioned, mid-range hotels and inns (3-4 star) used throughout. All hotels have en suite bath, though some may have shower only. Porter service is usually available (see 'inclusions') though you should be independent with your luggage, especially at airports. Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins.
Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, local guide throughout (Tunisia), driver.
Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader
Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 1 Tour Style: Cultural
After the Roman Empire conquered Carthage, Julius Caesar resurrected the city into a vast metropolitan that was almost comparable to the grandeur of Rome.
Its ancient structures, robust museums and vast array of shrines showcase the remnants of a history we can easily immerse ourselves in.
The temples of Jupiter, Juno and Minerva in Sufetula are only a small fraction of the legacy that spans throughout Tunisia.
On our Tunisia & Malta Tour, we will have the opportunity to relax just as some of the ancient rulers relaxed when we experience the Aghlabite basins, which are historically known for their appeal.
The challenging landscapes certainly offered a variable foundation for the Roman Empire to build their many interesting cities; the beautiful houses of Dougga are situated on the steep slopes of green, lush hills; and the underground dwellings of Matmata have been carved out of the soft sandstone.
Once we touch down on Malta, we will be faced with an even greater mixture of magnificent architecture and breathtaking terrain. When examining the layout of Gozo villages, we can see the potential of true human ingenuity when inspired by a veritable paradise.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 1 Tour Style: Cultural
On our Algeria & Tunisia tour, we set down in the heart and capital of Algeria, Algiers, once a Barbary pirate stronghold and famed for the exploits of the pirate "Redbeard", who claimed dominion over it for the Ottoman Empire when he expelled the Spanish in 1529.
After exploring the maze of small alleys and whitewashed houses and getting our first taste of the unique Algerian culture, we head east to Setif, the commercial centre of the region built by the French on the ruins of a Roman town that was founded in the 1st century AD, stopping at various coastal towns along the way to soak in the sights.
The next few days are spent strolling through some of the best-preserved Roman sites in North Africa, gazing at magnificent mosques and typically Algerian architecture.
The 10 remaining days of our tour are spent familiarizing ourselves with the abundant bounties on offer in Tunisia, from the historic sights like those in Carthage or the ancient trading region of Sousse, to the lively, colourful markets that buzz with the activity of the friendly locals.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
On our Algeria, Tunisia & Malta tour, the entire country of Algeria makes for a fascinating historical journey and we make full use of our days in its locale, taking in the innumerable remnants of the once-great Roman Empire, ancient Phoenician trading posts, splendid mosques, museums and some of the best-preserved relics and sites of antiquity in all of North Africa.
In Tunisia we spend time in Carthage, a region founded in 814BC by Phoenicians from the eastern Mediterranean and one that the Romans entirely destroyed in the 2nd century BC before incorporating it into the Roman Empire.
In Malta, we sail the routes of the Knights of St. John and the great Ottoman fleet and bear witness to monuments that can only be fully appreciated from the sea, saunter through beautiful towns and gardens, learn about Maltese prehistory in the southern regions of the island and visit its most important historical sites. Malta's abundance of attraction means we'll be busy for our last couple of days on our tour, but it'll be well worth the rewards.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
This Tunisia, Malta & Italy Tour gives us a good perspective of the considerable expanse of the Roman Empire.
From the Byrsa Hill acropolis along the Tunisian shores of Carthage, to the massive ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, the wealth and influence of this empire shows us why it had such great influence over the history of the Mediterranean.
The many museums throughout the tour give us valuable insight into the lives of ancient civilizations and a pleasant stroll through the preserved village of Pompeii offers a personal approach to the past.
Impressive temples, once dedicated to Greek gods, leave lasting impressions no matter what locale serves as their backdrop, be it Malta, Italy or Tunisia.
See how the imperfections of cobblestone streets throughout Sicilian villages are endearing attributes, or how the steep slopes of Malta give a unique quality to the structures built on them.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 4 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
On our Algeria, Tunisia, Malta & Italy tour, the entire country of Algeria makes for a fascinating historical journey and we make full use of our days in its locale, taking in the innumerable remnants of the once-great Roman Empire, ancient Phoenician trading posts, splendid mosques, museums and some of the best-preserved relics and sites of antiquity in all of North Africa.
In Tunisia we spend time in Carthage, a region founded in 814BC by Phoenicians from the eastern Mediterranean and one that the Romans entirely destroyed in the 2nd century BC before incorporating it into the Roman Empire.
In Malta, we sail the routes of the Knights of St. John and the great Ottoman fleet and bear witness to monuments that can only be fully appreciated from the sea, saunter through beautiful towns and gardens, learn about Maltese prehistory in the southern regions of the island and visit its most important historical sites. Malta's abundance of attraction means we'll be busy for our last couple of days on our tour, but it'll be well worth the rewards.
Sicily and Southern Italy are a highlight-packed exploration of this often overlooked yet fascinating and beautiful part of the country.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Staring up at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel is one of the many experiences that are expected along this Tunisia, Malta & Italy Tour, but we will be involving ourselves in many other excursions that are less renowned yet just as profound.
While in Malta, examining all the multi-coloured flowers of the Barracca Gardens in the capital city of Valletta might be comparable to the inspiration found in gazing upon the patchwork of assorted, colourful boats that slowly cruise the harbour of Marsaxlokk.
Realizing the historical significance of Tunisia involves visiting the holy city of Kairouan, where the first mosque in Africa stands, or meet someone from one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world while in Djerba.
Malta is not the only island experience in the Mediterranean; Sicily offers a whole new paradise to soak in.
The endearing qualities of narrow, market streets that wind through the city of Vucceria and the magnificence of the slopes of Royal Mountain make it easy for anyone to fall in love with this island.
The antiquity of Northern Italy seems endless as we step into Florence's Accademia and stand in front of Michelangelo's David.
Regions visited: North Africa
Countries visited: Tunisia
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
Equipped with air conditioning and wireless Internet. The rooms ... ideally adapted for your business trips, as well as for your holidays.
