WHEN TO TRAVEL to Tunisia

Location

Climate

Tunisia is a popular destination for many travelers in search of sun, beautiful beaches and a rich history.

Tourist seasons in Tunisia

Tunisia has two main tourist seasons:

• High season June to September
• Low season January to February and November to December

High season in Tunisia

The high season in Tunisia generally runs from June to September. During this period, the climate is warm and sunny, with temperatures reaching 35°C. The beaches are particularly pleasant, attracting large numbers of holidaymakers. Summer is also the time of many festivals and cultural events. However, it's important to note that hotel and air fares are higher during this period.

Low season in Tunisia

The low season extends from January to February and November to December. During these months, temperatures are cooler, dropping as low as 10°C. Beaches are less crowded, and hotel and air fares are generally more affordable. However, some cultural events take place during this period, which can be an advantage for those wishing to discover Tunisia from a different angle.

Major cultural events in Tunisia

Tunisia is rich in cultural events throughout the year. Here are some of the main events not to be missed:

• Carthage International Festival The Carthage Festival: usually held between June and August, this festival welcomes national and international artists to the sumptuous setting of Carthage's ancient theater.
• Hammamet International Festival This festival, held in July and August, showcases the performing arts, with concerts, plays and dance performances.
• Sousse International Festival In July and August, it offers a varied program including music, dance, cinema and theater.
• The Bizerte International Festival In July, the festival offers a wide range of cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions and street performances.
• The International Sahara Festival The Bedouin Festival, held in November or December, celebrates Bedouin traditions through camel races, folk dances and equestrian shows.

Public holidays in Tunisia

Tunisia has several public holidays throughout the year. It is important to know them in order to plan your stay:

• New Year's Day January 1st
• Revolution and Youth Festival January 14
• Independence Day March 20
• Martyrs' Day April 9
• Labor Day May 1st
• Eid el-Fitr date varies according to the Islamic calendar (end of the fasting month of Ramadan)
• Eid al-Adha date varies according to the Islamic calendar (Feast of Sacrifice)
• Anniversary of the Republic July 25
• Women and Family Day August 13
• Evacuation party October 15
• Ras el-Am el-Hijri date varies according to the Islamic calendar (Muslim New Year)
• Mawlid date varies according to the Islamic calendar (Prophet Mohammed's birthday)

Finally, it's important to take into account the Ramadan period, during which the opening hours of shops and tourist sites may be modified. This period varies each year according to the lunar calendar.

Demographic and migration data in Tunisia

According to data supplied by Tunisia's Office National des Statistiques (ONS), the country's population numbers around 11.5 million. Tunisian emigrants are estimated at almost 1.3 million, or around 11% of the total population.

Immigrants in Tunisia

Immigrants to Tunisia represent a much smaller proportion of the population. Their numbers are estimated at around 60,000, or less than 0.5% of the total population. Among them are mainly European and African nationals, notably French, Italian, Algerian and Libyan.

Net migration in Tunisia

It's interesting to note that for several years now, net migration has been negative in Tunisia. This means that more people are leaving the country than are moving in. This situation can be explained by the country's economic and social crisis, as well as by employment and training opportunities abroad.

The most popular visas in Tunisia

Among the various types of visa available for travel to Tunisia, some are particularly popular with foreigners. Here is a non-exhaustive list most popular visas :

• Tourist visa : This is the visa most commonly requested by foreign visitors, allowing a short stay (generally between 1 and 3 months) for tourism or leisure purposes.
• Business visa : This type of visa is intended for people wishing to travel to Tunisia on business (meetings, conferences, training courses, etc.). The period of validity varies according to the nature of the trip and the needs expressed by the applicant.
• Study visa : Foreign students wishing to study in Tunisia must obtain this type of visa before arriving in the country. The period of validity generally corresponds to the duration of the planned studies.
• Family reunification visa : Intended for people with family living in Tunisia, it enables them to join family members for a fixed or indefinite period.

International tourism in Tunisia: key figures

The sector of tourism is an important pillar of the Tunisian economy. Every year, the country welcomes millions of foreign visitors who come to enjoy its pleasant climate, beaches and archaeological sites.

Tourist arrivals in Tunisia

According to data published by the Office National du Tourisme Tunisien (ONTT), the number of tourist arrivals has risen significantly in recent years. In 2019, over 9 million tourists visited Tunisia, an increase of 13.6% on the previous year.

Nationalities of tourists visiting Tunisia

Cultural diversity is one of Tunisia's main assets, and this is also reflected in the profile of tourists who choose to spend their vacations here. The nationalities most represented among foreign visitors are :

• The French;
• Algerians;
• The Germans;
• The Russians;
• The Italians;

Tunisia's most popular tourist destinations

Tunisia offers a variety of landscapes and tourist attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. Among the most popular destinations are :

• Djerba: This island in south-eastern Tunisia is particularly popular for its fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters;
• Hammamet : Located on the country's east coast, this seaside town is renowned for its historic heritage and lively beaches;
• Sousse : With its medina listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is a true architectural and cultural jewel.