Tunisia is a destination mostly related to the golden Mediterranean beaches, the ruins of the city Carthage, and the busy streets of Tunis. However, aside these popular tourist spots, there is another facet of the nation that most tourists fail to notice. Since the time of mute desert villages to ancient cave house and isolated coastal towns, Tunisia has endless less traveled experiences that seem sincere and uncongested. In case you are going on a Tunisia sightseeing trip from India may prove to be much more interesting and informative by showing you more than just the popular tourist spots.
This guide reveals some of the most interesting Hidden Gems in Tunisia which reflect the history of the country, its landscape, and the life of the locals in a very unique manner.
Matmata -The Village in the Underground.
In Tunisia, Matmata is one of the most bizarre places of visit. This Berber village is known because of its underground troglodyte houses, which are houses hewn out of the earth directly to keep cool on the desert heat. It is like going into a different world when one walks through Matmata.
The visitors are able to visit the traditional pit-style homes, interact with the local families and get to know of the centuries-old methods of surviving in the desert. Movie enthusiasts can also be aware of Matmata as place where Star Wars is filmed. The secluded environment and exotic desert scenery render it a trip worth taking among tourists who are fed of the usual city tourism.
Sidi Bou Said’s Quiet Corners
Although Sidi Bou Said is associated with blue-and-white streets, the majority of tourists have been visiting the primary locations and cafes. Go further into the village and you will find serene lanes, local art galleries and little craft shops, which are much more homely.
It is particularly magic in the early mornings. Having smaller crowds, you are able to enjoy the sea views, traditional buildings and hidden terraces with the Mediterranean. It would suit photographers and slow travellers who like attractions, rather than masses.
Chenini – A Desert Mountain Village
The village of Chenini is a historic Berber area, situated high in a rocky hill in Libyan borders, which has not been affected by the mass tourism much. Old houses, mosques and granaries are well incorporated in the mountainous landscape.
The climb to Chenini will reward you with panoramic views of the desert and an insight on the conventional life. The village is serene, natural and very picturesque. Chenini is one of the most interesting places to visit in Tunisia in case you like the cultural immersion and history.
Kerkouane – A Forgotten Ancient City
The main attraction of travelers to Carthage is related to ruins and not many people are aware of Kerkouane. This archeological spot of interest which is a UNESCO site contains the remnants of an ancient Punic city that was not under Roman influence. Kerkouane is the only one of the ruins that were not rebuilt, so it provides a unique and genuine insight into the life thousands of years ago.
You do not have to walk through old streets, houses and bathhouses in huge tour groups. The picturesque location along the seashores contributes to the beauty, and it is a silent but strong historical experience.
Takrouna – A Scenic Hilltop Escape
Takrouna is a small village on a hill top which has a panoramic sight of the countryside in Tunisia. The village is like a living museum with just a few families remaining in the village. The use of the traditional stone houses, small roads, and hospitable residents makes the experience intimate and serene.
It is best visited during sunset when the golden light disperses over the valleys down below. It is a perfect destination to tourists seeking to associate with the rural Tunisia and have leisure travel time.
Djerba’s Cultural Side
Djerba is a beach destination; however, there are other undiscovered cultural gems in the place. Visit the village of Erriadh, with its colorful street art and galleries or see the El Ghriba Synagogue, that is among the oldest African synagogues. These are the off-the-beaten track sites that can show the Island and its varied background and artistic nature.
Spending some time outside the resorts will enable you to find the other face of Djerba that most people who visit the place fail to see.
Lake Ichkeul National Park
The Lake Ichkeul is a serene national park that can never be overlooked by nature lovers. Migratory birds, wetlands and scenic hiking trails are found in the park. It is much less busy compared to coastal destinations and is ideal to those travellers that are wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.
It is a great day trip to take a break in the city as the place has a variety of birdwatching, walking paths and the picnic spots that are calm and distinct.
Why Explore Beyond the Tourist Trail?
On the one hand, you can have a more worthwhile experience of the country by unveiling the Hidden Gems in Tunisia. These places have fewer people, more genuine human experiences, and cultural insight. You are not in a hurry to see the popular attractions, but rather have a chance to slow down, socialize with locals and reveal the hidden stories that are not shared by the majority of visitors.
It be be sleeping in the Sahara, it be mountain climbing the mountain villages or it be wandering the ruins of ancient buildings, these are places that give your trip character, richness.
Final Thoughts
The diversity of Tunisia is much more than one would think. Exploring these Hidden Gems in Tunisia will bring you to the next level of the checklist, discover the soul of the country. Desert landscapes to old hill top villages, everywhere you turn you can hear a story to be discovered.
Do you need exclusive Indian traveler Tunisia vacation ideas? Go Kite Tours will guide you on how to have a comfortable and a culturally mindful travel experience where you explore popular attractions, as well as such hidden gems.
