Tunisia is a Mediterranean coastal state in the centre of North Africa, covering an area of 163 610 km². It is Africa's northernmost country, with a population of around 12 million, and its capital Tunis is located in the north of the country. Tunisia gained independence from French rule in 1956 and, as a colonial legacy, French is widely spoken, although Arabic is the official language. English is spoken by those working in tourism. People make their living from the oil and phosphate industries, but agriculture also supports a large number of Tunisians. Tourism is also an important source of income for Tunisia, with millions of tourists visiting the country's beach resorts every year. Tourism in the Sahara is on a smaller scale.
Climate: Tunisia's weather varies from region to region, with a Mediterranean climate in the north, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. In coastal Soussé, average August temperatures are around +30°C, while in January the average temperature is only +7°C. Towards the south and inland, the climate becomes drier and the southern part of the country has a desert climate. Temperature differences are more extreme, with average August temperatures in inland Kairouan averaging +37°C and +4°C in January. In winter, however, daytime temperatures in the Sahara climb to around +20°C and sunshine is almost guaranteed. The highest temperature in Africa, +55°C, was recorded in the small town of Kebili in the Tunisian Sahara in 1931.
Rainfall also varies widely from region to region; northeastern Tunisia receives around 1500 mm per year, while the Tozeur in the Sahara only receives around 100 mm. The amount and timing of rainfall varies, but generally rainfall occurs from autumn to spring.
Security: The security situation in Tunisia is good, but it is advisable to avoid demonstrations and stay away from the border areas with Libya and Algeria. There may be pickpockets in the crowds. Traffic is the main risk factor, as are the high summer temperatures.
Visa: EU citizens and most other Western citizens can visit Tunisia without a visa. Please note that visa policies are subject to change without notice. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your trip.
Currency: Tunisia uses the dinar (TND) as its currency. One euro buys around 3.3 dinars. Currency cannot be exchanged abroad and cannot be taken out of the country. You should take euros or dollars with you and exchange them at your destination or withdraw dinars from an ATM.
Vaccinations and malaria: No vaccinations are required, but please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
