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Is Tunisia Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide from a Frequent Visitor

Discover if Tunisia is safe for travelers in 2025 with our comprehensive safety guide covering everything from common scams to safe regions, transportation tips, and local customs to ensure a worry-free North African adventure.

Introduction: My Tunisia Safety Journey

The first time I landed at Tunis-Carthage International Airport back in 2017, I was gripping my bag nervously, eyeing everyone with suspicion. After reading numerous travel advisories and mixed reports online, I half-expected to be scammed before even leaving the terminal. Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve now visited Tunisia eleven times, explored every major city, and ventured into remote areas many tourists never see. Those initial fears? Completely unfounded – but also completely natural for anyone visiting North Africa for the first time.

During my last visit in January 2025, I found myself laughing with a local shopkeeper in Sidi Bou Said about how paranoid I’d been on that first trip. “Khawef bla sabab” he told me – “fear without reason” in Tunisian Arabic. That perfectly summarizes most foreign perceptions about safety in Tunisia.

This guide combines my personal experiences with current safety data to give you the most accurate, honest assessment of traveling safely in Tunisia today. I’ve made mistakes, learned lessons the hard way, and gathered insider knowledge that goes beyond typical travel warnings. By the end, you’ll know exactly what risks actually exist, which are overblown, and how to navigate Tunisia with confidence in 2025.

Tunisia’s Current Safety Situation in 2025

Let’s start with the facts: Tunisia is significantly safer than media narratives often suggest. The country has worked diligently to improve security following isolated incidents in 2015, and those efforts have paid off. According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Tunisia ranks as North Africa’s second safest country, behind only Morocco.

Here’s the current situation broken down by key safety factors:

Safety Factor Risk Level Notes
Terrorism Risk Low-Moderate Significantly reduced since 2015; focused on remote border areas
Crime Rate Low Petty theft exists but violent crime against tourists is rare
Political Stability Moderate Occasional protests in Tunis, rarely affecting tourist areas
Health Safety Good Modern healthcare in major cities; improved COVID protocols
Natural Disasters Very Low Occasional flooding in winter months

I’ve personally witnessed Tunisia’s security transformation. During my March 2025 visit, I noticed significantly reduced police checkpoints compared to previous years – a sign authorities are confident in the improved situation. Tourist police presence in major destinations like Sidi Bou Said, Carthage, and the Medina of Tunis has been optimized to be effective without feeling intrusive.

Insider Tip: The government-operated Tunisia Tourism app (launched in late 2024) now includes an emergency button that connects travelers directly to tourist police. It worked brilliantly when I accidentally left my backpack in a taxi last month – they coordinated with the driver and had my belongings returned within hours.

Regional Safety Variations

Tunisia’s safety profile varies significantly by region. Here’s my assessment based on recent visits:

  • Very Safe Areas: Coastal resorts (Hammamet, Sousse, Monastir), tourist zones in Tunis, Sidi Bou Said, Bizerte, Djerba Island
  • Generally Safe: Central Tunis, Sfax, most of northern Tunisia, eastern coastal regions
  • Exercise Caution: Southern desert regions, especially if traveling independently
  • Avoid: Border areas with Libya and certain areas near the Algerian border (see map below)

Common Tourist Scams and How I’ve Avoided Them

While violent crime is rare in Tunisia, tourists can encounter scams. Here are the ones I’ve personally encountered or narrowly avoided:

1. The “Special Price” Taxi Scam

My first costly mistake came during my 2019 visit when I agreed to a “special price” from the airport rather than insisting on the meter. I paid 55 dinars for what should have been a 15-dinar ride to my hotel in La Marsa.

How to avoid it: Always insist on using the meter (“compteur” in French or “ad-daddad” in Tunisian Arabic). If a driver refuses, simply walk away and find another taxi. In 2025, the legitimate yellow taxis now prominently display typical fare ranges to common destinations inside their vehicles – a helpful reference point.

2. The “Friendly Guide” Hustle

Walking through Tunis Medina in 2020, a very persistent “student” offered to show me around for free. He eventually led me to his “uncle’s” carpet shop where I faced intense pressure to purchase an overpriced rug.

How to avoid it: Politely but firmly decline unsolicited guide offers with “La, shukran” (No, thank you). If you want a guide, arrange one through your accommodation or the official tourist office at Avenue Habib Bourguiba.

3. The Restaurant Menu Surprise

This one caught me off guard in a seafood restaurant in Sousse in 2022. The waiter suggested a “fresh catch” without mentioning the price, which ended up being four times the cost of regular menu items.

How to avoid it: Always confirm prices before ordering anything not clearly priced on menus. This is especially true for seafood, which is priced by weight. The good news: as of 2025, Tunisia’s tourism ministry now requires restaurants in tourist zones to display all prices clearly – but it’s still smart to verify.

My Most Expensive Lesson: The Currency Exchange Trap

My costliest mistake came when changing money at a small exchange bureau near El Jem in 2021. Distracted by conversation, I didn’t count my money carefully and received about 20% less than the official rate.

How to avoid it: Use bank ATMs for withdrawals (Attijari Bank and BIAT have the most reliable networks) or official exchange offices. Always count your money immediately and verify the rate before completing any transaction.

Transportation Safety: Getting Around Tunisia

Transportation safety in Tunisia varies widely depending on your chosen method. From personal experience, here’s my assessment:

Driving in Tunisia

During my extended 2023 stay, I rented a car for three weeks to explore the northern regions and coastal routes. The freedom was incredible, but Tunisian driving culture was… an adventure.

Road conditions are generally good on major highways, but deteriorate in rural areas. The biggest hazards are unpredictable driving behaviors, lack of adherence to traffic laws, and poorly maintained vehicles. Night driving outside cities is particularly risky due to limited street lighting and unmarked road hazards.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Rather than renting from international agencies at the airport (where a basic car costs 90-120 dinars daily), use local companies like Auto Sibel or Houda Car in downtown Tunis. I’ve consistently paid 50-65 dinars daily with these local operators. Just make sure to thoroughly document any existing damage before driving off.

Public Transportation Options

Tunisia’s public transportation ranges from excellent to challenging:

  1. Louage (shared taxis): These white minivans with colored stripes connect cities and towns. They’re inexpensive (a Tunis-Hammamet trip costs about 7 dinars) and depart when full. While generally safe, they can be crowded and drivers sometimes speed.
  2. Trains: The railway network connects major cities including Tunis, Sousse, and Sfax. First-class compartments (only about 20% more expensive) offer significantly more comfort. The recent modernization of the Tunis-Sousse line has improved service reliability since 2024.
  3. City Buses/Trams: Tunis has an extensive light rail network that’s safe and efficient. Regular city buses are extremely crowded and pickpocketing can occur.

In February 2025, I used the Tunis-Carthage TGM light rail line daily without issues. At just 1.9 dinars per trip, it’s both the safest and most economical way to explore the northern suburbs.

Transportation Safety Rankings

Based on personal experience and current conditions:

Transportation Mode Safety Rating (1-10) Cost Level Best For
Official Yellow Taxis 8/10 Moderate City travel, airport transfers
Light Rail/Metro in Tunis 9/10 Very Low Exploring Tunis and northern suburbs
Intercity Trains 7/10 Low Travel between major cities
Louage (shared taxis) 6/10 Low Budget travel to smaller towns
Rental Car 5/10 High Exploring remote areas, flexibility
City Buses 4/10 Very Low Budget travelers comfortable with crowds

Safety for Solo Travelers and Women

As a frequent solo traveler to Tunisia, I’ve found it generally welcoming, though experiences differ based on gender. During my April 2024 trip, I connected with several solo female travelers to get their perspectives:

Solo Female Traveler Considerations

Women traveling alone in Tunisia may experience uncomfortable attention, particularly in non-tourist areas. Street harassment usually takes the form of catcalling or persistent conversation attempts rather than physical harassment. My friend Sarah, who traveled solo through Tunisia last year, shared that while she never felt in danger, the constant attention in certain areas was exhausting.

Areas where women generally experience fewer issues include:

  • Tourist zones in Hammamet, Sousse and Monastir
  • Upscale neighborhoods like Gammarth and La Marsa
  • Sidi Bou Said village
  • Organized tour groups in the Sahara

Insider Tip: The Girls Love Travel Tunisia Facebook group (established 2023) has become an excellent resource for solo female travelers. Members share real-time safety information and sometimes organize meetups. Several women I met through this group mentioned it transformed their experience.

Appropriate Clothing Considerations

Tunisia is more liberal than many Arab countries, but modest dress still reduces unwanted attention, especially outside tourist areas. During my summer visits, I’ve noticed the stark difference in how tourists and locals dress, particularly at beaches.

My suggested clothing approach:

  • Beach resorts: Western swimwear is entirely acceptable
  • Major cities: Shorts/t-shirts are fine (though shorts for women may attract more attention)
  • Conservative areas/mosques: Women should cover shoulders and knees; men should avoid very short shorts

When I visited the Great Mosque of Kairouan in March 2025, I noticed they now provide free scarves for women who arrive with uncovered hair – a thoughtful accommodation for visitors.

Solo Traveler Safety Map

Health and Medical Safety

Tunisia’s healthcare system offers reasonable standards in major cities, though rural facilities can be basic. As someone who unfortunately needed medical attention during my 2022 trip (a nasty case of food poisoning in Douz), I can share firsthand insights:

Medical Facilities

Private clinics in Tunis, Sousse, and Hammamet offer good standards of care with English or French-speaking doctors. The Clinique Internationale Hannibal in Tunis and Polyclinique Nejib Daoud in Hammamet are particularly recommended for tourists.

My experience at a private clinic in Sousse in 2022 was surprisingly positive – I received prompt treatment, the facility was clean, and the staff spoke sufficient English to address my needs. The total cost without insurance was 120 dinars (about $40) including consultation and medication.

Common Health Concerns

Based on my experiences and conversations with other travelers, these are the most common health issues to prepare for:

  1. Digestive issues: The most frequent complaint among travelers. Avoid tap water (including ice cubes outside quality hotels) and exercise caution with street food, particularly in summer.
  2. Sunburn/heat exhaustion: Tunisia’s summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). During my July 2021 visit, I foolishly attempted a midday walk in Matmata and experienced severe heat exhaustion despite drinking plenty of water.
  3. Minor injuries: Uneven pavements in medinas and ancient sites pose tripping hazards. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for exploring.

Money-Saving Health Tip: Pharmacies in Tunisia are abundant, well-stocked, and significantly cheaper than Western countries. Many medications that require prescriptions elsewhere are available over-the-counter here. I’ve saved substantially by purchasing common medications like antibiotics and allergy treatments in Tunisia rather than bringing them from home.

Essential Preparations

Before your trip to Tunisia, take these health precautions:

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage and evacuation
  • Pack a basic first aid kit including rehydration salts and diarrhea medication
  • Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date (no special vaccines required as of 2025)
  • Bring high-SPF sunscreen (surprisingly expensive in Tunisia)
  • Note the number for emergency services: 190 (police) or 198 (ambulance)

Cultural Awareness and Local Customs

Understanding Tunisian customs has not only kept me safer during my visits but has opened doors to experiences tourists rarely access. Here are the cultural insights I’ve found most valuable:

Religious and Social Etiquette

Tunisia practices a moderate form of Islam. During my Ramadan visit in 2023, I was initially nervous about eating in public, but found most tourist areas had restaurants operating normally. Still, showing respect by being discreet about eating and drinking in public during this time was appreciated by locals.

Some important cultural considerations:

  • Always remove shoes before entering someone’s home
  • When invited for a meal, bringing a small gift (sweets or pastries) is appreciated
  • Avoid public displays of affection, particularly between same-sex couples
  • Using your left hand for eating or passing items can be considered impolite

Learning a few basic Arabic phrases goes extraordinarily far in Tunisia. When I started greeting shopkeepers with “Asslema” (hello) instead of “Bonjour” during my 2020 trip, I immediately noticed warmer responses and occasionally better prices.

Useful Tunisian Arabic Phrases

Tunisian Arabic Pronunciation Meaning
Asslema ass-lem-ah Hello
Besh-koun besh-koon How much?
Shukran shook-ran Thank you
Bsaha bsa-ha Cheers/Enjoy (said before meals)
Meshi mesh-ee Okay

Photography Etiquette

I’ve learned some hard lessons about photography in Tunisia. In 2019, I casually snapped photos in the spice market of Nabeul without asking permission, causing visible discomfort among vendors. Since then, I’ve always asked before photographing people or their shops – usually resulting in not just permission but often enthusiastic posing and conversation.

Areas to absolutely avoid photographing include:

  • Military or police installations/personnel
  • Government buildings
  • Border crossings
  • Airport security areas

Money-Saving Cultural Tip: Learning to bargain properly in Tunisia has saved me thousands of dinars across my visits. The key is to approach it as a social exchange, not a confrontation. Start at about 40% of the initial asking price, negotiate with good humor, and be prepared to walk away. My approach: set my maximum price mentally before starting, bargain pleasantly, and if we can’t reach a mutually acceptable price, say “marra okhra” (another time) with a smile.

Sustainable and Ethical Travel in Tunisia

My approach to Tunisia has evolved over the years to focus more on sustainability and ethical choices – which often lead to more authentic experiences and cost savings.

Supporting Local Communities

Tourism can either benefit or exploit local communities. Some ways I’ve found to ensure my visits have positive impacts:

  • Stay in locally-owned accommodations: During my April 2025 trip, I stayed at Dar Bibine in Sidi Bou Said, a stunning traditional house operated by a Tunisian family who shared evening tea and conversation with guests.
  • Use local guides: In Dougga, I hired Walid, a university-educated local guide (recommended by my guesthouse) who provided exceptional insights into the archaeological site while supporting his family in the nearby village.
  • Shop at cooperatives: The women’s pottery cooperative in Sejnane (about 2 hours from Tunis) offers unique handmade ceramics with proceeds directly supporting rural artisans.

Sustainability Tip That Saves Money: Refill a quality water bottle at your accommodation rather than buying single-use plastic bottles. Many hotels and guesthouses now offer filtered water stations. I’ve calculated that this saved me approximately 75 dinars during my three-week 2023 trip while preventing dozens of plastic bottles from ending up in Tunisia’s waste stream.

Environmental Considerations

Tunisia faces serious environmental challenges, particularly water scarcity and plastic pollution. During my beach walks in Hammamet last summer, I was dismayed by the plastic waste washing ashore even on otherwise beautiful beaches.

Simple ways to reduce your environmental impact:

  • Choose accommodations with environmental certifications (Green Key or Travelife)
  • Decline daily towel and sheet changes at hotels
  • Take short showers (water is precious in Tunisia)
  • Participate in beach cleanups (announced through Association Nouadhibou)
  • When visiting the desert, ensure your tour operator follows “leave no trace” principles

In 2024, I participated in a half-day beach cleanup in Mahdia organized by a local environmental group. Beyond the good feeling of removing trash, it connected me with environmentally-conscious Tunisians who later invited me to a traditional couscous dinner – an experience I’d never have had otherwise.

Ethical Wildlife Tourism

Unfortunately, some tourist experiences in Tunisia involve animal exploitation. During my 2019 visit to Djerba, I regrettably rode a camel before understanding the welfare concerns. Now I recommend:

  • Avoiding camel rides at beach resorts (these animals often work long hours without adequate rest or water)
  • Skipping the animal displays in Douz where foxes and birds of prey are kept in poor conditions
  • Instead, consider visiting the Association Amis des Animaux et de la Nature near Tunis, which rescues and rehabilitates native wildlife

Emergency Preparedness and Resources

Even with careful planning, emergencies can happen. During my 2022 trip, I experienced both a significant travel disruption due to a transportation strike and had my wallet stolen in a crowded market in Sousse. Being prepared made all the difference.

Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Service Phone Number Notes
General Emergency 197 Similar to 911/999
Police 190 Tourist police speak English in major destinations
Ambulance 190 Request English-speaking operator if possible
Fire Department 198 Response times vary by location

Save these contacts in your phone and write them down as backup. During my wallet theft incident, the tourist police officer spoke excellent English and efficiently took my report, which I needed for insurance purposes.

Embassy Information

Register with your country’s embassy before traveling to Tunisia. Having their contact information is essential during emergencies:

Money-Saving Emergency Tip: Rather than relying solely on international travel insurance (which often requires you to pay upfront and claim later), consider adding Tunisia-specific coverage from a local provider. During my 2024 trip, I purchased a 30-day policy from Assurances STAR for just 45 dinars that covered immediate treatment at their network of private clinics without upfront payment.

Backup Documentation

After losing my wallet in 2022, I was incredibly thankful for my preparation. Always:

  • Scan and email yourself copies of your passport, insurance documents, and tickets
  • Keep a small emergency cash reserve separate from your main wallet (I keep 100 dinars in my toiletry bag)
  • Store embassy contact information and important phone numbers on paper, not just in your phone
  • Share your itinerary with someone at home

Communication During Emergencies

Tunisia has excellent mobile coverage in populated areas. For reliable connectivity:

  • Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival (Ooredoo and Orange offer tourist packages)
  • Download offline maps of your destinations before traveling
  • Install a translation app with Arabic capability
  • Consider a portable battery pack for extended days exploring

Conclusion: Is Tunisia Safe for You?

After eleven visits spanning eight years, my honest assessment is that Tunisia is generally safe for travelers who exercise reasonable precautions. The country offers extraordinary experiences that far outweigh the manageable risks. Like anywhere, situational awareness makes all the difference between a challenging experience and a magnificent one.

The smells of jasmine and mint tea in Sidi Bou Said, the golden light on ancient Carthage at sunset, the dizzying maze of Tunis medina, and the vast silence of the Sahara have captivated me for years – experiences worth the minimal risk they entail.

Your 5-Step Tunisia Safety Action Plan

  1. Before booking: Check current travel advisories from your country’s foreign office and join Tunisia travel Facebook groups for recent visitor experiences.
  2. Pre-departure preparation: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, register with your embassy, and save emergency contacts.
  3. Upon arrival: Get a local SIM card, exchange only small amounts of currency initially, and confirm transportation from the airport in advance.
  4. Daily safety routine: Keep valuables secure, stay aware in crowded areas, dress appropriately for different settings, and maintain digital copies of important documents.
  5. Building local connections: Learn basic Arabic greetings, respect cultural norms, and connect with locals through small group tours or cooking classes for both enhanced safety and richer experiences.

Remember that most negative experiences in Tunisia stem from minor scams or cultural misunderstandings rather than safety threats. With appropriate preparation and reasonable caution, Tunisia offers a safe, enriching North African experience that remains less touristed than Morocco yet equally rewarding.

I’m planning my twelfth visit for autumn 2025 – perhaps we’ll cross paths in a Tunis café or while watching the sunset paint the Mediterranean from the cliffs of Sidi Bou Said. Traveling to Tunisia has given me some of my most cherished memories, and with these safety insights, I hope it will do the same for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Tunisia

Is it safe to travel to Tunisia in 2025?

Yes, Tunisia is generally safe for travelers in 2025. Major tourist areas have robust security, and the terrorism risk has decreased significantly since 2015. Like any destination, certain areas require more caution than others. Coastal resorts, major archaeological sites, and tourist zones in cities have excellent safety records.

Which areas of Tunisia should travelers avoid?

Travelers should avoid the Libyan border region and certain areas along the Algerian border, particularly the mountainous regions in the west where isolated security incidents have occurred. The far southern desert requires guided tours rather than independent travel. Within cities, exercise normal caution in unfamiliar neighborhoods after dark.

Is Tunisia safe for solo female travelers?

Tunisia can be navigated safely by solo female travelers who understand local customs. Unwanted attention and occasional harassment may occur, particularly in non-tourist areas. Dressing modestly, projecting confidence, and being firm with unwanted approaches helps. Resort areas, upscale neighborhoods, and organized tours offer the most comfortable experiences for solo women.

What are common scams to watch for in Tunisia?

Common scams include taxi drivers refusing to use meters, “friendly” unofficial guides leading tourists to commission-based shops, restaurants adding unexpected charges, and merchants dramatically inflating initial prices. Awareness, healthy skepticism toward too-good-to-be-true offers, and clear price agreements before services prevent most scam attempts.

Do I need special vaccines or health precautions for Tunisia?

No special vaccines are required for Tunisia as of 2025. Routine vaccinations should be up-to-date. The main health concerns are foodborne illness, heat-related conditions in summer, and minor injuries. Avoid tap water, exercise caution with street food, use sun protection, and bring basic medications for stomach issues.

How is the COVID-19 situation in Tunisia in 2025?

As of 2025, Tunisia has normalized its COVID-19 protocols. Entry requirements change periodically, so check the Ministry of Health website before traveling. Most restrictions have been lifted, though some indoor venues in urban areas may still require masks during seasonal outbreaks.

What should I do if I experience a crime in Tunisia?

Report any crime to the tourist police (police touristique) who have offices in all major destinations and speak English. For theft or loss, you’ll need a police report for insurance claims. Contact your embassy if you need additional assistance. For emergencies, call 197 for general help or 190 for police.

Is it safe to use credit cards in Tunisia?

Credit card use is generally safe in upscale hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in tourist areas. However, card skimming can occur. Use ATMs attached to banks rather than standalone machines, shield your PIN, and monitor your statements. Many smaller establishments only accept cash, so always carry some local currency.

What’s the best way to access money safely in Tunisia?

The safest approach is using bank ATMs for withdrawals and carrying only the cash needed for each day. Notify your bank of travel plans before departure. Exchange money at official banks or exchange offices rather than with individuals offering “special rates.” The Tunisian dinar is a closed currency, so exchange only what you need as you cannot convert it back upon departure.

How reliable is internet access for staying connected with family?

Internet access is reliable in cities and tourist areas. Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Mobile data is inexpensive with local SIM cards (available at the airport or telecom shops with your passport). Signal may be limited in remote desert regions. For peace of mind, schedule regular check-ins with family when in areas with good connectivity.

References and Additional Resources