Hammamet, Sousse, Mahdia, Monastir, 2027 Total Solar Eclipse, El Jem, Kairouan, Uthina, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, Olive Oil Tasting, Dougga, Testour, Tunis
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Tunis, our staff will meet you at the airport and then transfer you to your hotel to begin your trip. If you arrive early, you may like to explore the historic medina of Tunis or take a walk along the Avenue Habib Bourguiba.
OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
Begin with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel before setting off along the coast to Hammamet. Known for its pristine beaches and laid-back Mediterranean charm, this iconic seaside town offers a wonderful blend of history and relaxation. Explore the whitewashed old town, wandering through quiet, flower-draped alleys, and step onto the ramparts of the 15th-century seaside fortress for magnificent views over the sea.
Continue south to Sousse, a lively coastal city featuring an exceptionally preserved, UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina. Discover its imposing stone ramparts, wander through the vibrant souks brimming with local handicrafts, and visit the historic 8th-century Ribat. Climb to the top of its watchtower for sweeping panoramic views across the city skyline and bustling harbour.
After taking in the rich history and coastal scenery of both towns, relax on the scenic drive towards the historic port town of Mahdia.
OVERNIGHT:
Mahdia Hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Begin the day exploring Mahdia, a charming coastal town celebrated for its rich maritime heritage and relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Wander through the historic medina and bustling traditional fishing port before discovering the grand Borj El Kebir fortress. Perched at the edge of the narrow headland, this imposing 16th-century stronghold provides sweeping panoramic views across the peninsula and out over the Mediterranean Sea.
Travel short distance up the coast to Monastir to visit its legendary Ribat. Originally constructed in the 8th century to defend against maritime invasions, this sprawling fortified complex stands as one of North Africa's oldest and most historically significant Islamic monuments. Stroll through its stone passages, courtyards, and watchtowers to absorb the deep history of Tunisia's coastal defences.
After taking in the monumental architecture and sea views in Monastir, enjoy the scenic return drive back to Mahdia for the evening.
OVERNIGHT:
Mahdia Hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Depart early for a prime viewing location near Chaffar Beach, situated just south of Sfax directly along the path of totality. Here, prepare to experience the awe-inspiring total solar eclipse of August 2, 2027. At approximately 10:11 AM local time, witness an unforgettable 5 minutes and 39 seconds of complete darkness. To ensure total comfort throughout this once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event, the dedicated viewing area features shaded zones, light refreshments, and clean facilities.
Following the eclipse, travel inland to El Jem to explore its legendary Roman amphitheatre. As one of the largest and best-preserved Roman arenas on Earth, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a dramatic look into ancient history. Walk through the underground passages and step onto the vast arena floor where gladiators once fought, marvelling at the sheer scale of Rome's architectural power in North Africa.
Later, we'll return to Mahdia for the evening.
OVERNIGHT:
Mahdia Hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Enjoy a wonderful, unhurried day discovering Mahdia completely at your own pace. Take the time to wander through the cobbled streets of the charming old town, stopping at local cafés to sip traditional mint tea alongside residents. You can spend the afternoon relaxing on the soft sand along the Mediterranean coast or soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of this historic seaside town. It offers the ideal balance of quiet cultural exploration and coastal relaxation.
OVERNIGHT:
Mahdia Hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Begin with a visit to the Great Mosque of Kairouan, one of North Africa's most significant Islamic monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its majestic architecture, expansive marble courtyard, and grand prayer hall while learning about its centuries as a major spiritual and cultural center.
Afterward, take a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed Medina of Kairouan. This carefully curated route deliberately avoids heavy commercial shopping areas, guiding you through serene, traditional streets and past historic buildings to capture the authentic heart and soul of one of Tunisia's oldest cities.
Travel north to the impressive archaeological site of Uthina, an ancient Roman city set within a tranquil landscape. Discover its remarkably preserved remains, including a grand amphitheatre cut into the hillside, the Capitol building, public thermal baths, and detailed residential quarters that showcase daily life during the height of the Roman Empire.
Following your exploration of Uthina, relax on the final leg of the drive north toward the capital city of Tunis.
OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Begin in the heart of the capital with a guided exploration of the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the early Islamic era. Navigate its labyrinth of narrow, covered alleyways and traditional souks, taking in hidden courtyards, historic palaces, and the majestic Zitouna Mosque—the spiritual anchor of the old city.
Next, head to the coast to discover the legendary archaeological site of Carthage, perched on rolling hills overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. Once the legendary seat of the Punic Empire and a major rival to Rome, this expansive open-air museum blends rich Phoenician and Roman heritage. Explore its most iconic ruins, including the vast Antonine Baths, the ancient Punic Ports, the sacred Tophet, and the grand Roman Theatre.
Continue along the coast to the cliffside village of Sidi Bou Saïd. Renowned for its striking whitewashed buildings, vibrant blue doors, and cascading bougainvillea, this picturesque enclave offers sweeping views across the Mediterranean Sea.
While in Sidi Bou Saïd, visit the exquisite Ennejma Ezzahra Palace. A stunning masterpiece of Arab-Andalusian architecture set within tranquil landscaped gardens, this former home of Baron Rodolphe d’Erlanger now houses the Centre for Arab and Mediterranean Music. Stroll through its ornate rooms to admire a world-class collection of historical musical instruments, rare manuscripts, and intricate architectural craft.
OVERNIGHT:
Tunis hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Set off inland to Medjez El Bab for an immersive olive oil tasting experience and traditional lunch at Domaine Ben Ismail. Learn about North Africa’s long-standing olive cultivation traditions and modern extraction processes before taking part in a guided tasting session to sample the estate's award-winning olive oils. Following the tasting, enjoy a delicious lunch cooked with fresh, local ingredients, offering an authentic taste of rural Tunisian gastronomy.
Continue the journey to Dougga, widely considered one of the best-preserved Roman cities in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Perched high on a hillside overlooking fertile valleys, this magnificent ancient city features extraordinarily intact monuments. Explore the grand Capitol, the remarkably preserved theatre, various temples, and the sprawling forum while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
On the return leg, stop in the peaceful town of Testour to discover its unique Arab-Andalusian heritage. Founded by Moriscos exiled from Spain in the 17th century, Testour showcases distinctive architectural details, most notably seen at its famous Great Mosque, which features an unusual counter-clockwise clock on its minaret. Stroll through its quiet streets to appreciate this rare cultural fusion before completing the drive back to Tunis.
OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Your time is free today until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. Extensions are available to add onto the end of the tour to spend some time by the sea.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
included with
8 nights deluxe level accommodation in Tunis & Mahdia
A day dedicated to witnessing the 2027 solar eclipse in a coastal location close to Sfax
All transport and transfers
24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
Services of a local tour guide for all sightseeing tours
Monument entrance fees
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
excluded by
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Eclipse Viewing Glasses (recommended)
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tipping
Any other items not mentioned above
Detailed Description
Experience the incredible history and vibrant landscapes of North Africa on this unforgettable nine-day journey through Tunisia . Designed to blend ancient cultural heritage with scenic coastal charm, this itinerary offers a deep dive into the country's most iconic sites, capped off by an extraordinary astronomical spectacle.
Your adventure begins in the bustling capital of Tunis before winding along the Mediterranean coastline. You will explore the charming whitewashed alleys of Hammamet, wander through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina of Sousse, and discover the maritime roots and grand fortresses of Mahdia and Monastir. A major highlight of the tour takes place near Chaffar Beach, where you will position yourself directly in the path of totality to witness over five minutes of total darkness during the 2027 total solar eclipse.
Beyond the eclipse, the itinerary brings the region's ancient past to life. Stand in awe of the towering Roman Amphitheatre of El Jem, wander the tranquil ruins of Uthina, and uncover the grand Capitol and theater at Dougga, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in North Africa. Spiritual and cultural discovery continues with a peaceful walk through Kairouan—one of North Africa's most significant Islamic cities—as well as a stop in Testour to admire its unique Arab-Andalusian architecture.
Throughout the trip, moments of relaxation and culinary indulgence are woven into the schedule. You will enjoy a completely free day to unwind by the sea in Mahdia, savor award-winning olive oils during a farm-to-table lunch at Domaine Ben Ismail, and take in the iconic blue-and-white clifftop views of Sidi Bou Saïd. Ending back in Tunis with guided tours of the ancient city of Carthage and the vibrant capital medina, this itinerary delivers a rich, well-rounded taste of Tunisia's timeless beauty.
Throughout your stay, you'll be accommodation in 5-star hotels and resorts.
