Medenine governorate
This intriguing part of the country stretches from the Djerba coastline to the Dahar mountains, and like Gabes is also known for its rich Berber heritage.
Having such a privileged coastal location, water sports were always the main adventure draw in this northern Tunisia destination. But with Djebel Ressas and Boukornine National Park also located here, land exploration by foot or bike to experience the diverse flora and fauna has become popular recently.
Ben Arous Governorate at a glance
Djebel Ressas and Boukornine National Parks are located here
More than 100 bird species winter at Tunis South Lake
Boasting a privileged coastal location, water sports like parasailing in Borj Cedria abound
The geologic origins of Djebel Ressas date back more than 100 million years and fossils can still be found there
Boasting a privileged coastal location, water sports like parasailing in Borj Cedria abound
Keep an eye out for the world’s smallest mammal when hiking Boukornine National park
Located a mere 10 kilometers north of the capital city, Boukornine National Park is home to 500 species of plants including pine, cyclamen, Aleppo cedar, wild lily, orchid and wild tulip. Visitors exploring the park are encouraged to keep an eye out for the adorable Etruscan Shrew, the world’s smallest mammal. The Boukornine Mountain towers 576 meters over the spectacular sapphire waters of the Gulf of Tunisia that can be seen in the distance, making for some stunning panoramic views. There are marked trails that offer hikes of different difficulties anywhere from 30 minutes to a circuit that takes on average 3.5 hours.
“Boukornine National Park is home to 500 species of plants including pine, cyclamen, Aleppo cedar, wild lily, orchid and wild tulip”
Get up close with ancient geology on a trek through Djebel Ressas
Djebel Ressas Mountain (Lead Mountain in Arabic) is a high and rugged outcropping of Jurassic limestone situated just southeast of Ben Arous Governorate. In the past it was visited mostly only by locals or very experienced climbers, but it is slowly becoming better known by tourists. Boukournine Mountain may appear taller, but at 750 meters Ressas is the dominant peak in the region. The geologic origins of Djebel Ressas date back more than 100 million years and observant hikers can sometimes find marine fossils and calcite crystals in the high crags.
Cruise through Boukornine National park on a mountain bike
If exploring on two wheels is more your thing, Boukornine Mountain is a mountain biking playground. Lucky bikers have a chance to see over 90 diverse species of animals that live on these mountain slopes. Birds, mountain deer, jackals, wild boar, porcupine, wild cat, red fox and hare can often be spotted. Half-day guided bike tours of the Carthage archeological site can also be arranged.
A bird-lover’s paradise: Chebedda and Tunis South Lake
In Tunisia, most of the reserve areas are wetland sites protected by the Ramsar Convention. A Ramsar site is a wetland that supports vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered species or threatened ecological communities, many of which are birds. Both Chebedda and Tunis South Lake are home to more than 100 bird species that winter in the lake, as well as yellow-legged gulls and egrets that nest there. Flamingos, ostriches, pheasants, marbled ducks, eagles, bustards and laughing doves are just a few examples of interesting birds that can be spotted in Tunisia’s Mediterranean basin.
“Flamingos, ostriches, eagles, bustards and laughing doves are just a few examples of interesting birds that can be seen in Tunisia’s Mediterranean basin”
Parasail over the Borj Cedria nautical base
Thrill seekers can enjoy many parasailing activities all along the Tunisian coast from Bizerte to Djerba, and for the more experienced water sports enthusiast, there are even parasailing events such as “Rallye Paramoteur” organized frequently by the Tunisian Air Sports Association. But for those tourists looking to simply spend a sunny afternoon enjoying coastal views from above, the Borj Cedria nautical base provides enjoyable excursions.
Check out these 3 regions in Tunisia
Ben Arous Governorate
Having such a privileged coastal location, water sports were always the main adventure draw in this northern Tunisia destination. But with Djebel Ressas and Boukornine National Park also located here, land exploration by foot or bike to experience the diverse flora and fauna has become popular recently.
Gabes governorate
Head to this region of southeast Tunisia to experience firsthand the fascinating Berber culture, picturesque Berber villages and the Toujane valley.