Tunisia

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Internet Access/Cafes | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

The two main climatic influences are the Mediterranean Sea, which reduces temperature and produces rainfall, and the Sahara Desert with its dry, hot winds, such as the Sirocco. In addition, the Tunisia consists of two regional climatic belts, with Mediterranean influences in the north and Saharan in the south. Temperature are moderate along the coast, with an average annual temperature of 20°C (68°F), and hot in the interior south. The summer season in the north, from May through September, is hot and dry, the winter from October to April is mild and characterised by frequent rains.

Climate Chart for Tunis

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

Visas are required by all except nationals from Algeria, Antigua & Barbuda, Bahrain, Barbados, Belize, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Dominica, Fiji, EU Countries, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Hungary, Iceland, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kiribati, Niger, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Romania, St. Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenadines, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Switzerland, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, USA
Nationals of Israel are not allowed to enter the country. South African can obtain a visa upon arrival.

Visa regulations can change at any time and we advise you to check with your embassy or representation for the latest information.

Listing of Tunisian Tourist offices and/or embassies location around the world

MONEY

Official Currency:    Tunisian Dinar=1000 millimes
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

All banks and most hotels change money and travellers cheques, which are best taken in Pounds Sterling to avoid additional commission charges. Credit cards are very widely accepted.

Location of Visa ATM's

BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:    Monday to Friday : 0730-1100 and 1400-1615 (summer),     Monday to Friday: 0800-1100 and 1300-1515 (winter)
Shops:    Monday - Saturday: 0800-1200 and 1600-1900 (summer)     0830-1200 and 1500-1800 (winter)

LOCAL TIME

Tunisia is one hour ahead of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	International Flights to Tunisia Click for flights from Europe with KLM Click for flights from Europe with BA.com Domestic flights Tunisair Also operates regular domestic service from Tunis to Djerba, Sfax andTozeur. You will more than likely need to book in advance.
Train:	Regular trains connect all the main cities in the north of the country. The service is fairly good and comfortable but you will need to book in advance.
Ferries	West Med Ferries
Public Transport:	Tunisia has an excellent network of buses connecting all the main cities throughout the country. The service is cheap, comfortable with many buses being air-conditioned.
	The Africa Guide's recommended Map Tunisia Road Map  (Maps Worldwide) High quality road maps with place name index. In many countries these are simply the best maps available. Scales vary according to the size of the country. Index is in several languages. This map includes tourist information on the reverse side. Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	The road network is in good condition with the speed limit being 100km/h (60mph) in major highways and 50km/h (30mph) in towns. Driving is on the right hand side and all drivers must be in possession of a log book, valid national driving licence and green card insurance. There are many companies offering hire cars, but it can be expensive. Drivers must be 21 years of age and have held a licence for at least a year.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Tunisia, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.
	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....
	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .
	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.