Tataouine - Discovering Tunisia

Travelling to Tataouine

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tataouine, a pretty good destination in Tunisia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tataouine and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tataouine, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Tunisia, here's everything to know about Tataouine for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tataouine

Tataouine is a small city in southern Tunisia, known for its distinctive traditional Berber architecture, deep troglodyte dwellings, and as the setting for multiple Star Wars movies. The region is home to a number of ancient sites, including the Ksar Ouled Soltane, a fortified granary dating back to the 15th century, and the Douiret village, a picturesque cliffside settlement. Tataouine is also popular with adventure travelers, who come to explore the nearby desert landscapes and oases. The city is accessible by road, air, and rail, and has a small but lively market where visitors can buy traditional crafts and souvenirs.

What to visit in Tataouine

Some of the popular tourist attractions in Tataouine, Tunisia are: 1. Ksar Ouled Soltane - A fortified granary built in the 16th century, this ancient structure was used to store food and protect local crops from intruders and pests. The ksar (fortress) is made of yellow brick and is organized in terraces with a number of vaulted rooms. It is a renowned film location for Star Wars movies.
2. Chenini - An ancient Berber settlement that dates back to the 12th century, Chenini located atop a hill with an altitude of over 400m overlooks the surrounding desert valleys. There are several well-preserved houses, mosques, and granaries, which showcase traditional Berber architecture.
3. Douiret - Another beautiful Berber village with houses made of a mixture of mud and straw. There is a fortress or ksar, which is still inhabited by some Berber families.
4. Tataouine Deserts - One of the main attractions of Tataouine is the desert landscape that surrounds it. There are several organized desert tours which offer breathtaking views of sand dunes, rocky cliffs, and exotic wildlife.
5. Medenine - Located about 70 km northwest of Tataouine, this town is an important center for traditional Berber architecture. It is famous for its ksours, which are traditional fortified granaries.
6. Guermessa - Located on a cliff, this Berber village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. There are several rock-cut granaries and houses, which are still inhabited by the Berber population.
7. Matmata - A unique village famous for its houses that are built underground. These houses are made by digging a large crater into the ground and then building a circular structure around it. The interiors are then decorated with colorful tapestries and carpets.
8. Mos Espa - A fictional city in the Star Wars universe, Mos Espa is located just a few kilometers outside of Tataouine. It was a major film location for the Star Wars prequel movies, and visitors can explore the movie sets and see original props and costumes.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Tunisia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tataouine.

When to go on holiday to Tataouine

The best time to visit Tataouine is during the spring or autumn season (March to May or September to November). During these months the temperature is mild with an average temperature of 20-25°C, allowing you to explore the area comfortably. It is important to note that during the summer months, the temperature can exceed 40°C, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers. Additionally, the winter season (December to February) can be quite cool and rainy. Overall, the best time to visit Tataouine depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are interested in.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tataouine

To get to Tataouine in Tunisia, you can take a flight to Tunis Carthage International Airport (TUN) which is the nearest airport to Tataouine. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to get to the bus station or the train station. From Tunis, you can take a bus or train to Tataouine. The journey takes around 8 hours by bus and 12 hours by train. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or take a shared taxi from Tunis to Tataouine. It is important to note that these modes of transportation may not be as reliable or comfortable as buses or trains, but they are a great way to travel like a local and get a more authentic experience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tataouine, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tataouine

Here are some typical foods from Tataouine in Tunisia: 1. Brik: Brik is a fried pastry that is typically stuffed with potatoes, tuna, and egg. It is a popular snack in Tataouine and can be found at street vendors or small restaurants.
2. Couscous: Couscous is a North African staple dish made from semolina wheat. It is typically served with vegetables and meat such as lamb or chicken.
3. Mloukhia: Mloukhia is a stew made from a vegetable called Corchorus olitorius, which is also known as Jew's mallow. The leaves are chopped and cooked with chicken, lamb or rabbit and served with rice.
4. Chandique: Chandique is a sweet pastry made from dough, honey, and almonds. It is a popular dessert in Tataouine and is often served at special occasions such as weddings.
5. Mechouia: Mechouia is a salad made from roasted peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. It is often served alongside grilled meats or on its own as a light lunch or snack.
6. Rfissa: Rfissa is a traditional Moroccan and Tunisian dish made with chicken, lentils, and shredded msemen (a type of flatbread). The mixture is seasoned with spices and served hot.
7. Merguez: Merguez is a type of sausage made from lamb or beef. It is typically seasoned with spices such as paprika, cumin, and garlic and grilled or fried. These are just a few examples of the typical foods you can find in Tataouine, Tunisia. The flavors and ingredients used in Tunisian cuisine are influenced by the country's history and geography and are sure to tantalize the taste buds of any traveler.
You can find general info about typical foods in Tunisia here.

Is Tataouine an expensive destination for tourists?

Tataouine is generally considered an affordable destination compared to other tourist hotspots in Tunisia. However, the cost of your trip to Tataouine will depend on various factors such as the type of accommodation you select, mode of transportation, the activities you plan to do, and the overall duration of your stay. As with any destination, there are budget-friendly options available for travelers. It's recommended to do some research and plan your trip accordingly to fit your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Tataouine

In Tataouine, the best areas to find accommodation would be in the city center or in the nearby Medenine Governorate in towns such as Beni Khedach or Chenini. Staying in the city center allows for easy access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions, while staying in the nearby towns gives visitors a chance to experience the traditional way of life in the region. Additionally, there are some hotels and resorts located near the stunning Ksour Mountains, which offer incredible views and outdoor activities.
You can check hotel prices at Tataouine here:
Booking.com

Is Tataouine a safe destination for tourists?

Tataouine, Tunisia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is recommended that visitors take the same precautions as they would in any unfamiliar destination. This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding areas known to be dangerous, not carrying large amounts of cash, and keeping valuables safe. It is also advisable to travel with a guide or trusted local if you are not familiar with the area. Overall, while crime rates are relatively low in Tataouine, it is always best to exercise caution and common sense when traveling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Tunisia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tataouine.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tataouine the most?

Tataouine, Tunisia is a fascinating place for all types of travelers. The town's unique Berber architecture and old medina make it a great place to explore for history and culture buffs. The surrounding Sahara desert also offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and spectacular landscapes. Families with children might also enjoy visiting the nearby Ksar Ouled Soltane, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of a stunning network of underground granaries. However, it's important for visitors to note that Tataouine is a relatively small town with limited tourist infrastructure, so it may not be the best destination for travelers seeking a party atmosphere or a wide variety of entertainment options.

How to get around Tataouine

In Tataouine, Tunisia, the most common mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike is by car. Taxis and rental cars are easily available in the city, and they offer a convenient and affordable way to explore the area. Additionally, there are buses and trains available that connect different cities within Tunisia, but they are not as popular for short trips around Tataouine.

What to see around Tataouine

Sure, here are some suggestions for day trips from Tataouine: 1. Chenini: a beautiful and historic Berber village located just 25 km from Tataouine. Its architecture and structures date back to the 12th century.
2. Ksar Ouled Soltane: another historic Berber village known for its well-preserved ksars. It's about 30 km from Tataouine.
3. Ksour of Douiret: a collection of well-preserved ancient Berber villages and fortresses. It's located about 15 km to the northwest of Tataouine.
4. Matmata: a unique town known for its underground troglodyte homes. It's located about 60 km from Tataouine.
5. Medenine: a historic town located on the coast and known for its traditional architecture and ancient granaries. It's about 70 km from Tataouine.
I hope this helps you!
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