Tunisia is a nation located in North Africa. In addition to its accessible Mediterranean Sea coastline and strategic position, Tunisia’s people have come into touch with the residents of the African continent because of its easy access to the Sahara.
Because to the deteriorating security situation in Libya and Algeria, there is a greater level of security presence at border crossings. It is possible that crossings will be closed with short notice. The entrance is controlled by Tunisian security troops.
Before making a decision on whether or not to travel to Algeria or Libya, check with local authorities and read the travel warnings for both countries.
Traveling to arid places is highly recommended.
To go to some desert areas in the south of Tunisia, you must first obtain authorization from the Tunisian authorities. You must be accompanied by a licenced guide.
Preparation is essential before travelling to or across the Sahara, and the National Guard’s Tourism Brigade suggests that you register your trip plans at one of their three offices in Douz, Tozeur, or Tataouine.
Traveling through the Sahara with an expert guide may help to decrease the hazards involved with the journey.
Permit to operate a motor vehicle
To be able to drive in Tunisia, you must have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) (IDP).
Before departing Australia, you must receive an IDP from the Australian government.
If you want to stay for an extended period of time, you should inquire with the Ministry of Transport (in French) regarding local licences.
Traveling by road
If you are involved in a car accident in Tunisia, you are roughly five times more likely to die than if you are in Australia.
Driving in Tunisia can be dangerous because of the following factors:
automobiles that are not properly maintained
terrible driving habits on the road in the neighbourhood
animals on the road in rural regions because to low road illumination, bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles, and other vehicles without lights or reflectors
Locals frequently overlook:
signs and signals for traffic flow
Crosswalks for pedestrians and traffic lights
lane delineation
If you want to drive in Tunisia, you should be aware of the following:
read about the traffic regulations in your area
Make certain that your car is equipped with the necessary safety equipment.
After dusk, avoid driving outside of urban areas.
On the roadways, military or police security inspections are not uncommon.
If you come across a security check, you should:
approach checkpoints with caution
Do not cross boundaries unless you have authorization.
Be prepared to present identification if required.
Motorcycles
Because to low road safety requirements, motorcycles should not be used.
It is possible that your travel insurance will not cover you if you are riding a motorcycle.
Always be sure you wear a helmet. Make certain that your passenger does as well.
Taxis
Taxis soliciting business outside of airports, hotels, and tourist sites sometimes attempt to demand exorbitant rates for their services.
If you need to take a cab, you can do it as follows:
taxis that are permitted to operate and trustworthy limousine services
Make a reservation at your hotel, and make sure the driver utilises the metre to avoid being overcharged.
Public transportation is available.
Buses may be quite packed. On buses, there is a lot of petty criminality.
TRANSTU, the Tunis Transport Company, is responsible for the operation of buses and the light railway system in Tunis.
Tunisia’s national transportation operator, SNTRI, and Trans-Tour buses provide transportation to outlying places.
Traveling by train
The railway network connects the following points:
Tunis, Bizerte, and Beja are among the major cities in the north, as are the east coast ports of Sfax and Gabes.
Petty crime happens on city and intercity trains, as well as on buses. Always take good care of your possessions.
Traveling by sea
Ferry services run on a regular basis between the following ports:
On Djerba Island, Sfax, as well as the Kerkennah islands El-Jorf and Ajim, are located.
Tunis and other cities are visited by international cruise liner services.
Traveling by air is a popular option.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) does not offer information on the safety of specific commercial airlines or flight patterns.
For more information about aviation safety in Tunisia, see the website of the Aviation Safety Network.
The level of security screening at the Tunis-Carthage International Airport has been raised significantly.
