TUNISIA

Alternative tunisia

Max. Group Size: 12

Tour Dates:

Tunisia is often celebrated for its Mediterranean beaches, but beyond the coastline lies a country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This alternative Tunisia itinerary takes you deep into the heart of the country, where Phoenician ruins, Berber traditions, and vibrant local markets reveal the true essence of Tunisia.

From the labyrinthine streets of Tunis' medina to the otherworldly troglodyte homes of Matmata, this journey explores the country’s diverse cultural layers. You’ll walk in the footsteps of Carthaginian traders and Roman emperors, visit centuries-old olive groves, and meet artisans who keep Tunisia’s age-old crafts alive. Beyond the famous sites, you'll experience the hospitality of local families, savor traditional dishes passed down through generations, and immerse yourself in the rhythm of daily life.

This itinerary is a gem because it blends history, local encounters, and natural wonders. Instead of tourist hotspots, you'll explore hidden ksours (fortified granaries) in the south, witness the thriving arts scene in Sidi Bou Said, and venture into the dramatic desert landscapes of Douz and Tozeur, where Berber culture thrives.

Perfect for curious travelers who seek more than just sightseeing, this journey offers an authentic, immersive Tunisia—one that unveils the country’s rich past while celebrating its vibrant present.

ITINERARY

  • Arrive in Tunis, meet our driver and transfer to the boutique riad in the old medina. 

    • Guided tour of Tunis Medina (UNESCO-listed) – historic alleys, artisans, and souks. 

    • Visit Dar Lasram and meet local craftsmen. 

    • Dinner at Dar El Jeld, an atmospheric palace-turned-restaurant. 

    Overnight: Traditional Riad in Tunis 

  • Roman Ruins & Bohemian Charm

    • Morning visit to Carthage, exploring Punic and Roman ruins. 

    • Discover the Antonine Baths and Byrsa Hill for a panoramic view. 

    • Head to Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque blue-and-white village. 

    • Visit Dar el-Annabi, a traditional Tunisian home turned museum. 

    • Free time to enjoy mint tea at Café des Délices with a sea view. 

    Overnight: Riad in Tunis 

  • Drive to Kairouan, Tunisia’s Islamic and carpet-weaving capital. 

    • Explore the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the oldest in North Africa. 

    • Visit a traditional carpet workshop and learn about the craft. 

    • Stroll through the medina and taste the famous makroud (date-filled pastry). 

    • Evening tea with a local family to learn about daily life. 

     

    Overnight: Dar Hassine Allani Traditional Guesthouse

    • Visit the El Jem Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Roman Empire. 

    • Explore the El Jem Archaeological Museum, featuring mosaics and Roman villas. 

    • Continue to Matmata, a Berber village known for its underground homes. 

    • Visit a troglodyte home and have a home-cooked meal with a local family. 

     

    Overnight: Troglodyte Hotel in Matmata 

    • Journey south to Douz, a traditional Saharan market town. 

    • Visit the Douz Weekly Market to see desert nomads trading goods. 

    • Meet a Bedouin family and learn about desert survival traditions. 

    • Sunset camel ride into the dunes with tea in a nomadic tent. 

     

    Overnight: Desert Camp or Traditional Kasbah Hotel 

     

    • Cross Chott el Jerid, a vast salt lake with surreal landscapes. 

    • Arrive in Tozeur, known for its distinctive brick architecture. 

    • Explore the Medina of Tozeur and meet local artisans. 

    • Ride a horse-drawn carriage through the Date Palm Oasis. 

    • Evening storytelling session with a local historian. 

     

    Overnight : Boutique Guesthouse in Tozeur 

     

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    • Drive through the Atlas Mountains to visit remote oases. 

    • Explore Chebika, an abandoned Berber village with a natural spring. 

    • Visit Tamerza, known for its waterfalls. 

    • Enjoy a panoramic view at Mides, a canyon oasis near the Algerian border. 

    Overnight: Guesthouse in Tozeur  

    • Travel to Le Kef, a lesser-visited town with Ottoman and Roman history. 

    • Visit the Kasbah of Le Kef, overlooking the mountains. 

    • Join a traditional cooking workshop in a rural village. 

    • Meet shepherds and learn about Tunisia’s pastoral lifestyle. 

    Overnight: Rural Guesthouse 

    • Return to Tunis via Dougga, Tunisia’s best-preserved Roman city. 

    • Visit Bardo Museum for its world-famous Roman mosaics. 

    • Explore La Goulette, a historic port district known for its seafood. 

    • Farewell dinner at a local home with live Tunisian music. 

    Overnight: Riad in Tunis 

    • Optional visit to Marché Central, a lively market. 

    • Transfer to the airport for departure. 

BOOK

    • Twin share room in hotels (single room supplements id available for an extra charge)

    • breakfast

    • lunch

    • all entrance fees

    • daily water bottles

    • expert local guide and driver

    • Fiántas tour leader

    • Airport transfers to/from hotel on arrival and departures

  • X International flights to and from your starting point

    X dinner

    X private expenses

GENRAL INFORMATION

    • Tourist visa allows tourists to stay in the country without a visa for 90 days (if you hold a passport

  • A Fiántas Travel tour manager will be your first point of contact and will accompany the group during the entire tour.

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  • The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 33 C and an average low of 21 C. The coolest month of the year is January with an average daily maximum of 16 C and an average low of 6

    Before your tour starts, you will receive the tour prospectus with a pack list for the time of the year your tour will take place.

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