Tunisia Nature and Wildlife

Nature and Wildlife

For a relatively small country, Tunisia boasts some of the rarest species of birds, animals and plants in the world. The coastline of Tunisia enjoys whale and dolphin watching including rough-toothed dolphins, bottle-nosed dolphins and the common dolphin. The country boasts eight national parks located around the country, each hosting interesting nature and wildlife.

Lake Ichkeul National Nature Park is located in northern Tunisia near the shore of the Mediterranean Sea and is made up of Lake Ichkeul, swamp land, seasonal rivers and a mountain. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 due to its location as an important stopping point for many migratory birds each year. Over 200 species of birds can be found in the park including geese, storks, flamingos and ducks among others.

Chaambi National Park is located approximately three hours south of Tunis, the capital city, near the border of Algeria. It has been a biosphere national park since 1977 and is home to more than 260 different plant species. Along with the many plant species are approximately 24 mammals including the Barbary sheep, deer, and gazelles as well as many bird species.

Bou Hedma National Park, located in the southern region of Tunisia, is one of the largest parks in the country. The park covers an area of around 16,400 ha and is home to various plants and animals. Dorcas gazelles, addax antelopes, Barbary sheep and many other species are common.

Boukornine National Nature Park is found in northern Tunisia. As it is located near Tunis, the park has been dedicated to a peri-urban park. Boukornine hosts some very rare plants, many of which are endemic to Tunisia including the cyclamen, orchids and wild tulips. Many reptiles inhabit the park alongside mammals like wild boars, jackals and wild cats.

El Feija National Park is located to the west of Tunis and covers a total area of 2,632 ha. Of this 2,632 ha, 417 ha makes up a full protection zone that is closed to preserve the Barbary deer. Along with the Barbary deer, there are over 20 mammal species, 70 birds and 20 reptile species.

Jebil National Park is found in the Sahara Desert that covers an area of 150,000 ha. It was designated as a national park in 1994 and is the largest in the country, covering most of the southern part of the country. A great deal of research takes place in Jebil due to the discovery of prehistoric artifacts.

Sidi Toui National Park is a semi-desert area that covers 6.3 ha north on the border of the Sahara desert. Many animals call the park home including the sand fox, wild cats and gazelles. Various lizards and snakes like the horned viper can also be found.

Zembra National Park is located on the island of the same name located in the Mediterranean Sea. It was designated as a national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1977. The island is home to more than 266 plant species and some smaller animals including the wild rabbit.

Tunisia Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Tunisia.

Learn about the history and culture of Tunisia, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Tunisia's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Tunisia for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Tunisia tours today!

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AfricaExperts is the exclusive division of Goway that specializes in planning and organizing Tunisia tours and experiences. Choose from a locally escorted tour, a romantic beach stay, an independent travel module and more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Tunisia.