Djerba Island. Tunisia

You need to look for the island of Djerba on the world map in Gulf of Gabes. It belongs to the Mediterranean basin. Few people know that the island of Jebra is the legendary Oligia, where Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso for more than 7 years.

More than 130 km of the coastline of the island consists of beaches covered with white sand. Many episodes of the movie "Star Wars" were filmed on Djerba.

Djerba on the world map and Tunisia

Djerba is considered largest island in North Africa. This is one of the best resort areas. You can relax on the island all year round. The average annual temperature is within +20°C.

The largest city on the island is Houmt Souk with a population of 65,000.

How to get there?

The most convenient way to travel to Djerba is air travel. Zarzis International Airport is located in the northern part of the island. You can get to the island from Russia by plane with 1-2 transfers.

Direct charter flights from Moscow to the island fly from April to October.

The most convenient flight option from Moscow to Djerba is via Munich, and from St. Petersburg via. Flight time is 4 hours 30 minutes.

You can buy a plane ticket using this search form. Enter departure and arrival cities, date And number of passengers.

Zarzis Airport has only one runway. He accepts domestic and international flights. It is 9 km from Houmt Souk. You can find a taxi at the airport right at the entrance from the terminal.

Island Information

Very often Djerba is called An island of pink flamingos and thousands of palm trees. Many romantic legends are associated with it.

Story

Djerba has always been a tasty prey for various peoples due to its favorable geographical position. At different times, the island belonged to Arabs, Spaniards and even pirates. Berbers are the indigenous people of the island. These are African tribes that converted to Islam in the 7th century. They have preserved their customs and traditions to this day. Islam adopted by them was transformed over time into Ibadism.

The main romantic legend about the island is associated with the name Homer. In his Odyssey, he described the departure of Ulysses from Troy, who on his journey reached the shores of the island of Djerba, which Homer calls Oligia in the Odyssey.

In reality, the Phoenician merchants were the discoverers of the island, they brought crafts and trade to Djerba.

The island received a serious impetus in economic development during the heyday of the Roman Empire. It is the birthplace of the emperors Valerian and Gallienus. In the 16th century, the island was ruled by pirates. This period in the history of the island is associated with the name Drogut Reis. There is a legend that the famous filibuster hid his innumerable treasures on the island.

The inhabitants of the island traditionally settled in seclusion on small farms. Large settlements formed around large markets. The name of the capital of the island Houmt Souk in translation sounds like "bazaar quarter". For a long time, a large Jewish community lived on the island, most of which had to leave it. In memory of this, a synagogue remained on Djerba in Hara Segir, whose age is estimated at more than 2600 years. Djerba is currently part of Tunisia.

General information

About 140 thousand people permanently live on the island. Most of the island's population is made up of Arabs and Berbers. The area of ​​the island is 514 km². The main incomes of the island are agriculture and tourism. It has a well-developed infrastructure, there are many hotels, restaurants, clubs. The difference with Moscow time is -2 hours.

Climate

The temperature on the island is always higher than the mainland by 2-3 degrees. Despite the heat inherent in Africa, Djerba has its own “dead season”, it falls on December, January and February. The air temperature during this period is kept on the island within + 15-17 ° C. The best vacation time periods are considered, which are commonly called the off-season. The average temperature of these months is +22-26°C.

Additional heat is brought to the island by winds from the Sahara desert. This makes the climate of Djerba mild and warm. High season starts on the island in April. The average temperature this month is +22°C. The high season ends in November. The low season lasts from March to March. The air temperature during this period is kept within + 15-17 ° C, water - + 17-20 ° C.

Tourism

Tourists come to the island in search of quiet beach holiday. Water entertainment is well developed here, there is one of the best golf clubs in Africa. Casinos are open for gamblers. The scenery has been preserved in the village of Azhim, famous for shooting episodes of the Star Wars movie. This is the best spot on the island for scallop fishing.

Travel agencies operating on the island organize excursions to the mainland and travel around. One of the services on the island is thalassotherapy.

In the process of healing the body on Djerba, thermal springs are used.

Among popular attractions Djerba:

• Synagogue of La Griba. The building was erected in 586 BC. e. Jews who arrived on the island and left Jerusalem after its conquest by Nebuchadnezzar. According to the existing legend, a huge stone that fell from heaven was used in the construction of the synagogue. A woman came out of it and ordered to build a house for Jewish prayer.
• Djerba Lagoon. It is a bay that looks pink all year round from a bird's eye view. This color is given to it by pink flamingos living in these places. The lagoon is home to the ancient Ras Tagermes lighthouse and the Djerba Explore amusement park. There are various attractions and museums, a crocodile farm is open.
• Fortress Borj el-Kebir. The building dates back to the 13th century. Most of the building has survived to this day in its original form. The fortress is located next to the port of Houmt Souk and the local history museum.
• Guellala village. It is a settlement of potters who have preserved the ancient traditions of making pottery. Here is an ethnographic museum, where you can get acquainted with the national traditions of the peoples inhabiting the island.
• Azhim village. The scenery of the Star Wars movie preserved in the settlement allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of space battles. Here you can become a participant in catching sponges and octopuses with the help of large earthenware jugs.
• Roman road. Built by the Romans, the embankment that connects the island to the mainland is about 9 km long.

Currently, the road is an asphalt dam, but the history of its construction is of interest to tourists.

Hotels

Local hotels are designed for the rest of tourists with different financial capabilities and requirements for the level of service provided. Most of the hotels are located in the northern and western parts of the island. The largest part has 4 stars. In terms of quality of service, Tunisian 4 * are significantly superior to Turkish 5 *. Best hotels working on the system "all inclusive":

1. Hasdrubal Prestige Djerba 5*. The hotel is located on Sidi Mehrez Beach, next to the Casino and Golf Club. The area of ​​the hotel is more than 11 thousand square meters. meters. It has 219 rooms of various comfort classes with an area from 90 to 320 m². For meetings and conferences, the hotel has a special hall and meeting rooms.

   The hotel has:

   • laundry;
   • currency exchange;
   • parking;
   • thalasso center and much more.

Hasdrubal Prestige Djerba has a swimming pool, several restaurants and bars, and a barbecue area.

2. Djerba Plaza Hotel 4*. The hotel is located in Midoun, surrounded by a palm park. It has access to the beach, has its own swimming pool, tennis courts, sauna, Turkish baths and a place to play squash. The windows of the hotel restaurant overlook the sea. The hotel rooms have balconies and are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay.
3. Cedriana 3*. The hotel is located in the northern part of the island next to the beach. It has its own garden, swimming pool, spa, sauna, massage parlour. The hotel rooms can accommodate from 1 to 5 people. The hotel has 2 restaurants, bars, parking, playgrounds and rooms, and a thalasso centre.

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In books and guides about Tunisia, Djerba does not have much space and information. But this does not mean at all that the island is a depressive industrial area or a tourist outsider. On the contrary, Djerba (Tunisia) willingly welcomes guests all year round. It can even be said that in recent years tourism has surpassed traditional carpet weaving in terms of profitability. But for many people, the island, lost near the Libyan border, is "terra incognito." We will try to tell here about this idyllic corner, where, according to legend, among date groves and beaches with the purest sand, Odysseus forgot everything in the world in the arms of the nymph Calypso. Let's just say that in order to relax and lose the sense of time on Djerba, no mermaids are needed, because the gentle sea, thalassotherapy procedures and the hospitality of the locals will do their job.

Geography

The island of Djerba (Tunisia) is small. Its length is only 29 kilometers, and the width is even less - a maximum of 28 km. Also, this piece of land is low, it rises above the sea by only 55 meters. When we say “island”, we adhere to a clear geographical definition, although in order to get there, one does not have to sail by sea at all. It comes so close to the mainland that it is connected to it by a bridge. Moreover, this jumper is not an achievement of modern engineering. The bridge was built by the ancient Romans more than two thousand years ago. From all sides, the island is washed by azure waters. The coastline of Djerba is 130 kilometers of excellent beaches. The island's main town is Houmt Souk, the bustling commercial center of southern Tunisia. Djerba exports not only wonderfully made carpets, but also sponges, soaps, pottery and fish.

Climate

The North African heat, softened by the fresh breath of the Atlantic Ocean, promises you an excellent Djerba, due to its geographical location, boasts that the temperature on the island is always 2-3 degrees higher than on the mainland. Yet this is not Egypt. Despite the assurances of travel agencies that you can sunbathe and swim in Djerba all year round, there is a “dead season” here. These are three winter months. The coldest time is January. The air temperature is kept at +15°C, and in February and December - +17°C. The best time to relax on Djerba is called the off-season with their comfortable + 22-26 ° C. The Mediterranean climate has created a variety of landscapes on the small island. The lush greenery of olive and date groves contrasts with the desert landscapes here.

"Land of Lotus Eaters"

The island of Djerba (Tunisia) is so beautiful that there is nothing surprising in the fact that many legends are circling around it. Homer came up with the first. From the "Odyssey" we learn that Ulysses sailed from the burning Troy and, after long adventures, reached the deserted coast, on which inhabitants lived who knew no grief. They ate lotus flowers that grew here in abundance. For this, Odysseus called the island "the land of lotophages." The brave navigator met the nymph Calypso here. She also gave him a drink of nectar from it, and this drug so intoxicated Odysseus that he forgot the purpose of his journey and remained on the island (in love, of course) for seven whole years. Homer gives the island the name Oligia. It is not difficult to believe in this myth, because even today the atmosphere prevailing on Djerba is saturated with some intoxicating sweet ether. Already on the second day, even the most collected and pedantic person loses the sense of time and plunges into blissful languor.

Story

In reality, everything was somewhat more prosaic, but no less interesting. The Phoenicians were the discoverers of the island. In the distant eighth century BC, they brought here the beginnings of trade and crafts. But Tunisia, the island of Djerba and the oases of the Western Sahara were inhabited by local Barbary tribes. They have retained their identity even now, although they coexist side by side with other nationalities of the country. The island received a powerful economic boost during the era of the domination of the Roman Empire. An embankment bridge was built across the two-kilometer strait, connecting Djerba with the mainland. The island is the small home of the emperors Valerian and Gallienus. Later, Tunisia was owned by the Byzantines, Normans, Arabs, Spaniards, Turks. In the 16th century, the name of the terrible pirate Drogut Reis thundered here, who had one of his bases on the island. There is an opinion that the filibuster hid his treasures somewhere here. In 1560, a pirate erected a tower of five thousand skulls of his enemies. Borj el-Rus stood until 1848, after which it was dismantled, and the human remains were buried.

How to get there

The hotels of the island of Djerba (Tunisia) attract travelers, but the road to them, especially from our penates, can be long. During the high season, Nouvelair operates charter flights from Russia. But at other times you will have to get with transfers. The local Djerba-Zarzis airport regularly receives only domestic flights. You can fly to the capital of the state, the city of Tunisia, and then use one of the offers of local airlines (a one-way ticket will cost about one hundred dinars). The journey in the “luage”, an intercity minibus, will be longer, but four times cheaper. They depart from stops as they fill up. Buses are an alternative. More expensive, but comfortable, with air conditioning. And they run on schedule.

Hotels in Tunis, Djerba Island

The hotel base of the local resorts allows you to relax for various categories of tourists. Most of the hotels are concentrated on the northern and western coasts, as well as in the city of Houmt Souk. At the southeastern tip of the island, the excellent resort of Midoun thrives. If we consider hotels by star rating, then the vast majority are "fours". Moreover, the quality of service in them surpasses the Turkish "five". There are both well-known chain hotels in Europe (Magic Life, Iberostar, Caribbean World and others), as well as local hotels with a unique color and buildings in the Barbary style. Five-star hotels in Djerba (Tunisia) offer their guests life-giving thalassotherapy courses. These are such oases of bliss as Hasdrubal Thalassa & Spa Prestige, Ulysse Palace, Movenpick Ulysse, Vincci Al Kantara, Radisson Blu. Of the worthy "three rubles" we can advise Miramar, Garden Park, Mehari and Palma.

Popular excursions

The island of Djerba (Tunisia) is a unique place where the Christian West and the Muslim East, African beliefs and Jewish wisdom intertwine. Here, as in a time machine, you can go to the medieval medina and wander for hours along the shady narrow streets. Tourists are offered a large number of excursions both on the island and on the mainland of Tunisia. Which one to choose? Reviews highly praise the organized two-day trip to the Sahara with a stop in the Barbary settlements of the ksars and the Tataouin area. By the way, those who watched the Star Wars movie epic will surely recognize a fictional planet with the same name in this desert landscape. Yes, Tataouine was filmed here, and at the same time they borrowed the name. It will be interesting for children to visit the crocodile farm and the Laguna Reserve, where lotuses grow and flocks of pink flamingos live. You will have unforgettable impressions after visiting the lunar landscapes of Matmata.

Independent travel

Immediately, you need to make a reservation that taxi prices here are higher than in the mainland of the state of Tunisia. The island of Djerba is small, but still its sights are remote from each other. If you are lucky enough to rest in Houmt Souk, go to the medina. This is the name of the medieval quarter surrounded by fortified walls in the countries of the Arab world. In addition to bustling places to buy beautiful jewelry, embossing, carpets and pottery, you will see many characteristic houses with white walls and domed roofs. These are "menzeli" - the traditional dwellings of the inhabitants of Djerba. Thanks to this design of the building, it always remains cool. In the labyrinths of the medina, there are also three main mosques worth visiting: Jamaa Ettruk, Ash Sheikh and Jemaa el Gorba. But the main attraction of the old city is the Bordj el-Kebir fortress. In the Jewish town of Hara-Segira, there is the oldest synagogue, La Griba (Amazing). According to legend, she is already two thousand six hundred years old. And in the town of Meninx, the ruins of an ancient Roman settlement have been preserved.

Souvenirs

What to bring in memory of the island of Djerba (Tunisia)? Reviews advise, in addition to carpets, to buy excellent local wines. The French colonizers instilled a taste for fine drinks in the local population, so you won't be disappointed. Palm trees grow everywhere on the island, so alcoholic drinks are made from dates. A bottle of liquor will come in very handy, as will a package of excellent olive oil. We recommend that lovers of the exotic buy a melkhafa in the medina at the bazaar - a traditional orange-striped bedspread. Gellale sells fine ceramics.

This island in the African Gulf of Gabes attracts numerous tourists from all over the world. Direct flights to Djerba have become available in the last ten years for Russians not only from Moscow, but also from many other cities of our country. There is an amazing sea, clean beaches with the finest sand, excellent service, interesting sights and hospitable local people. The cost of tours to the island of Djerba (Tunisia) is a pleasant surprise, and hotels are offered in a variety of categories. In the article, we will dwell in detail on the features of recreation in this corner of Africa, consider accommodations based on the reviews of tourists over the past two years.

The beautiful island of Djerba (Tunisia): location and climate

The island is famous for its magnificent beaches and comfortable hotels with vast areas where you can play golf. Even on Djerba, the best thalassotherapy in the world, and the oriental flavor here is in perfect harmony with French sophistication. This place is called "Mediterranean Tahiti". Why? Just look at the photos of the island of Djerba in Tunisia below and you will understand everything yourself.

The island is very conveniently located: it is connected to the mainland by a ferry, which travelers describe in the most enthusiastic terms. Judging by the reviews of tourists about the island of Djerba (Tunisia), it offers both a rather luxurious vacation and very economical accommodation.

This is the largest piece of land on the North African coast with an area of ​​more than 500 km2. Its shores are gently washed by the Mediterranean Sea, and the sun fills Djerba with life every day of the year. The climate here is very mild, on a tropical island it is good even in winter. Temperature fluctuations are insignificant, there is little precipitation and they fall most often in autumn and spring. The beach season lasts from May to early October, after which the water temperature in the Mediterranean drops to +17+19 ºС.

The official language in Djerba, as well as throughout the country, is Arabic, but most of the population also speaks French. In hotels, guests are also greeted in English, and in some even in Russian.

Types of tourism on the island of Djerba (Tunisia)

What kind of vacation can be popular in the country's southernmost resort? Of course, the beach. It is always several degrees warmer here than in the continental part of the country. Tourists come here a little earlier and leave a little later.

On the territory of many hotels (from 4 stars) on the island of Djerba in Tunisia there are excellent thalassotherapy centers. Wellness and rejuvenation procedures are chosen not only by the fair sex, but also by many men.

Rest here is very calm and measured. Everything is very light and calming. Even the sea on the island with a light blue color gently frames the snow-white beaches. The houses are neatly laid out, square with white domed roofs.

Active entertainment is still there - horseback riding, golf, water sports, hiking and cycling. Club life on the island is almost not developed, but there are several places where you can dance well.

Resort areas of the island

The capital of Djerba - Houmt Souk. The city is a fishing port. No wonder that the best seafood dishes are served in its restaurants.

The Zarsis region is called a paradise. Here grow the most beautiful gardens on the island, olive and date groves, among lotuses and other exotic flowers, small multi-colored birds sing. Nearby are very secluded islands that love to visit couples. Cote d'Azur, clean, fine sand are torn away from reality and carried away into the world of dreams.

The main tourist area is called Medun, it is located near the international airport in the northwest of the island. The city is the second largest in Djerba. The area here is very fertile, and therefore picturesque. Many tourists ride bicycles or just walk. In the center of the city there is a beautiful mosque and a large cafe, popular with visitors. Nearby you can find markets where tourists usually buy fruits, souvenirs and other local goods, not forgetting about bargaining. In addition, guests of the city have the opportunity to look at the process of making olive oil.

How are the beaches different?

Let's start with free municipal beaches. These are long and sparsely populated shores with fine white sand, along which numerous date palms and olive trees grow. On some calm and quiet beaches, you can see the most beautiful sight - flocks of unusual pink flamingos flying gracefully above the turquoise waves.

The best beaches are located in the northeast of the island. The Djerba lagoon is located in this place, it is reliably protected from the northern winds and is perfectly warmed up by the bright sun. The beach strip is very long and wide. In this place are also the most popular, judging by the reviews, hotels of the island of Djerba (Tunisia).

The western shores are mostly uninhabited, only occasionally you can meet couples in love or groups of tourists on them. There are completely different, indescribable feelings of unity and harmony with this beautiful world. Accordingly, there is practically no infrastructure around. Travelers come here in rented cars, and take provisions with them.

Accommodation options and price range

It should be noted right away that comfortable accommodation is the main thing that is offered to tourists in hotels. However, you can feel quite good even in the most unpretentious and inexpensive hotels on the island of Djerba in Tunisia. "All inclusive", a concept so beloved by Russian tourists, is valid almost everywhere.

The island has guest houses and villas, as well as hotels of 1*, 3*, 4* and 5* categories. The location can be in the city center or not far from it, on the first or second coastline. The level of comfort and service in them, of course, differ, as well as the cost of a room per night.

The minimum price for accommodation is a little more than 1300 rubles in a rather nice Djerba Erriadh 1 * hotel. The cost of a room per day in 3 * categories with the best rating will be from 2000 to 5000 rubles. In prestigious and respectable categories (for example, Park Inn Ulysse Resort & Thalasso 5 *), prices can reach up to 20,000-30,000 rubles per day in the most expensive room.

Rating of the best hotels on the island of Djerba (Tunisia) according to tourist reviews

Resa Dar Sema Djerba 3 * - is rated by tourists at 9.8 points out of 10. The apart-hotel is located in the capital of the island. Here you can find the perfect value for money. This is a small complex with only four rooms. If you want the staff to pay a lot of attention to you, literally "blow the dust off you", come to this hotel. An individual approach to each client, excellent service and delicious breakfasts are guaranteed here.

Hotel Palm Asur 4 * is very popular among vacationers, it is chosen more often than other accommodation options, due to its affordable cost and excellent location on the first line. During the civil revolution in Tunisia (2011), many hotels in the tourist area of ​​Midoun were empty. "Palm Azur" was opened earlier than others, its territory and number of rooms were updated. Today it is a very calm and quiet place with excellent service and comfortable suites.

The Kzar Djerba 4 * hotel is not inferior in demand among Russian vacationers. This is also the Midoun area. The minimum cost per room starts from 2300 rubles, which is considered quite acceptable for a hotel of this category. Tourists praise the restaurant very much, the beautiful territory with outdoor and indoor pools, a magnificent conference hall equipped with everything necessary for holding business events, and a fairly spacious tennis court. The staff meets guests in Russian, which cannot but please our compatriots.

Best of the Best: 5* hotels of Djerba island in Tunisia

Hasdrubal Thalassa and SPA 5* has a rating of 10 out of 10 possible points. This is the first coastline, and the territory of the hotel is simply huge. On the beach, sunbeds and umbrellas stand at a decent distance from each other so that the guest's personal space is not violated. The food is exquisite. Guests are offered fresh seafood dishes and the best fruits, elite drinks, and the most delicate oriental desserts.

Another hotel from this chain is Hasdrubal Prestige 5 * (10 out of 10). Tourists compare this huge and luxurious complex with the palace from the fairy tale "Thousand and One Nights". In everything one can feel oriental sophistication and knowledge of the measure. European service at the highest level.

Golden mean: 4 * hotels on the island of Djerba in Tunisia

Several of the most popular complexes in this category have been described above. "Fours" are chosen more often than other hotels because they combine not only an acceptable cost of living, but also high-class service, comfort, and a wide range of services. Tourists claim that some 4 * hotels in Tunisia are in no way inferior to expensive respectable 5 * apartments, and in some ways they can even surpass them.

Such hotels on the island of Djerba (Tunisia), as Seabel Rym Beach 4 *, are very popular for families with young children. Tourists usually choose the end of August or the beginning of September to visit the country, as the climate is at its mildest at this time. The Sibel Hotel has a huge territory, an excellent beach with a gentle entry into the sea and children's playgrounds. For younger guests, you can choose a full meal, such as cereals and light soups, dairy products. The local population treats the children very warmly, interesting entertainment events are prepared for them. Animation teams try to make children and adults have fun. Crocodile farm just 10 minutes from the hotel.

Djerba Plaza Hotel & Spa 4 * is located in the heart of the tourist area of ​​Midouna. A distinctive feature of this hotel on the island of Djerba (Tunisia) is the presence of five restaurants and several bars. Here even gourmets will satisfy their exquisite taste, there are dishes for vegetarians, lovers of oriental and European cuisine. You can rent a car or bicycle at the hotel rental to explore the beautiful scenery of the surroundings.

Large and very comfortable family rooms with excellent renovation attract families to the Vincci Helios Beach 4 * hotel. The territory of the hotel extends for almost ten hectares. There are thalassotherapy centers, swimming pools, a children's mini-club, nannies even for the smallest children. According to tourists, the food at the hotel is just great. In the evenings, wonderful entertainment programs take place, and later lovers of dancing can go to the nightclub of the complex.

Carribean World Djerba 4* is a real paradise for lovers of water sports! In addition to the magnificent wide and well-maintained beach, the hotel has a large number of swimming pools with slides and a small children's water park.

What do they feed tourists?

Judging by the reviews about the island of Djerba, it is worth trying the Tunisian national tea, which is served cold or hot. Honey, mint and pine nuts are necessarily added to it. They say that some kind of unique combination is obtained. By the way, you can try to make such a drink at home. From local alcohol, tourists distinguish date liqueur and a variety of fruit wines.

The restaurants (according to the All Inclusive concept) of the best hotels on the island of Djerba in Tunisia serve both local dishes (beef or veal stew with vegetables, seafood dishes) and international ones. French dishes are very popular here, which are cooked with special skill.

Tourists should understand that they are coming to a Muslim country, it is necessary to respect its religion and traditions. For example, in Tunisia it is not customary to abuse alcoholic beverages, drink them in public places and appear drunk in public places. There is also a negative attitude towards smoking, although in some hotels you can find different types of rooms.

Crocodile farm, pirate ship and other attractions

The island does not have such a large number of interesting places associated with the rich history of Tunisia, as, for example, in Carthage. But even here there is something to brighten up leisure. Fans of cultural and educational tourism should go on a sightseeing tour of the city, which covers all the significant architectural structures of the island. For example, you can see the Roman road, the large and very ancient synagogue of El Ghriba, the powerful fortress of Borj El Kebir, and next to it is a fairly informative local history museum.

More entertaining than educational event is proposed to be done on a pirate ship. Many of today's Tunisians are distant descendants of the Barbary pirates who once chose Djerba as their base. In the 21st century, you can feel the atmosphere and spirit of those distant times. To do this, visit a pirate ship recreated to the smallest detail and put on the costumes of daring sailors.

In addition, many tourists swim along the Mediterranean coast with excursions to some small and picturesque islands. The price usually includes an interesting and tasty pirate-style dinner with fresh red fish and other delicacies.

Many have heard about the Djerba Explore amusement park, you should definitely come here. Both children and adults will like it here. Of greatest interest is the crocodile farm, which is inhabited mainly by huge Nile crocodiles. It is noteworthy that reptiles are not grown here in order to show entertaining tricks with their participation or to make elegant handbags and straps from their skin, as in Pattaya. Crocodiles live in conditions as close as possible to their natural habitat, and tourists can watch them from specially equipped bridges. Often vacationers try to calculate that the time of visiting the park coincides with the feeding time of these green giants (usually around 16:00).

After such emotional spectacles, you can safely walk through the park, see the Tunisian village recreated in all its national flavor. Here are real houses made of clay and lime, and camels help pump water for irrigating the fields, with their help the peasants cultivate the soil. In the Lalla Hadria Museum, you can see unique exhibits of Arab culture, some of which date back to the 7th century.

Instead of a conclusion

As you can see, the island of Djerba is a place that is suitable for any comfortable stay. The main distinguishing feature of all accommodation options on the island is excellent service and high-class staff. Residents are very fond of the sun and water, so hotel rooms often have pleasant golden hues. There are several pools in the areas among palm trees and olive trees, and the wonderful white beaches of the island will be remembered for a lifetime.

The island of Djerba is located in the Mediterranean Sea in the Gulf of Gabes. This is one of the most popular resorts in Tunisia. The area of ​​the island is 514 sq. km., the population is 140 thousand people. It is believed that it was on Djerba that Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso. Djerba is also known as the "island of the lotus eaters" because this plant is very common here. It was from Djerba that the formation of tourism in Tunisia began.

How to get to Djerba?

Djerba has its own airport, but there are no direct regular flights to the island. Only during the beach season charter flights fly to the island.

Also, the island can be reached with a transfer in Tunisia or in Monastir or by land (the island is connected to the mainland by an unmade road built by the Romans) or by ferry.

Weather in Djerba

The beach season on Djerba is longer than on the mainland of Tunisia. Desert winds carry the island warmly, you can swim here from April to mid-November. The temperature in summer is kept at around 30-32C, and the water warms up to 28C.

Shopping in Djerba

It is best to shop at the local market. There you can buy everything from jewelry to ceramics, dates, carpets and olive oil. As in any market in Tunisia, here you need to bargain with sellers.

Unlike supermarkets and shops, merchants in the Djerba market accept not only Tunisian dinars, but also dollars. However, it is better to pay in local currency, as sellers can significantly underestimate the rate.

Excursions from the island of Djerba

The most popular excursion in Tunisia is a two-day trip to the Sahara desert. Many tourists visit Tunisia with the aim of getting on this tour. A trip to the Sahara from the island of Djerba will take much less time than from the mainland.

Additional programs from the island of Djerba:

• Excursion Matmata-Duz. The program includes a tour of Douz Island and a trip to the city of Matmata, located on the border with the desert. During the trip, you can see beautiful landscapes and get acquainted with the life of Tunisians living outside the tourist regions.
• Excursion Tatooine-Chenini. Travelers will pass through the olive groves of the city of Metnin, see the storage of grains, visit the Tatooine spices and sweets market, then see Chenini - the city of troglodytes.
• Excursion to Ksar Gilan. Travelers will be able to see a real desert oasis with a palm garden on the shore of a small lake surrounded by sand dunes. In Ksar Gilan there is a thermal spring where you can swim. The program also includes jeep riding.
• Sightseeing tour of the island of Djerba with a stop at a pottery workshop and a history museum.
• Park-farm Djerba-Explorer. this is a crocodile farm where you can see more than 450 species of reptiles.

Features of the resorts of the island of Djerba in Tunisia

In Djerba, as in all of Tunisia, there are gorgeous white sand beaches and a gentle entrance. A feature of the island is the increased amount of algae on the beach, especially noticeable after a storm.

Djerba is suitable for a relaxing holiday. The island has restaurants and cafes, supermarkets, markets, but there are no entertainment facilities here, like in Sousse or Port El Kantaoui.

The main attractions of Djerba include:

Fortress Borj El Kebir, which received its second name in the 16th century - the fortress of Gazi Mustafa. A defensive structure erected by the Arab conquerors in the 9th century to protect against pirates. Located on the embankment of the capital of the island, the city of Houmt Souk;

Synagogue of La Griba. The oldest synagogue in Tunisia, located in the village of Hara Segira, the majority of whose population is Jewish.

Lagoon of Djerba. One of the few places in Tunisia where you can see flocks of pink flamingos.

Museum of Folk Traditions in Gellal. Here you can get acquainted with the history of the island of Djerba and ancient crafts, see how olive oil was pressed in the old days, and how dishes were made using a potter's wheel.

If you are looking for a country with clean beaches, a calm warm sea and a lot of places of interest to relax, then you simply cannot find a better vacation spot than the resorts of Tunisia. This country is rich in a wide variety of places worth visiting. Next we present best resorts in tunisia.

One of the best resorts in North Africa is the resort of Hammamet, located in the east of Tunisia. There is a magnificent, clean sandy beach, where you can both sunbathe and do any kind of sport. In this city, not only lovers of sunbathing and swimming in the warm sea will like to relax. There really is something to see here. The historical sights of the resort include the Medina of Hammamet. It looks like an ancient city surrounded by walls. And all this splendor was built more than 8 centuries ago. Here, tourists will see ancient houses and mosques. It is worth paying attention to the Ribat fortress, which adjoins the Medina of Hammamet. In its appearance, it is a square with a tower, which you can enter. Here is the mausoleum of the monk Sidi Buali.

Sousse is one of the most popular resorts in Tunisia, especially among young people. It is a real paradise for those who are bored of lying on the beach all day. It is worth noting that most of the sights are located in the city center. Here you can see the ruins of Carthage, and tourists with children are invited to visit the zoo. You will also have the opportunity to visit the famous fortress-monastery Ribat. Climbing up to the 2nd floor of which you can still see a footprint in a stone slab. If you believe the legend, then you can make a wish by stepping on the imprint and it will certainly come true. Not far from the fortress is the Great Mosque, which has 2 domed towers. Another striking attraction of Sousse is the Dar Essid house-museum, which was built back in 928.

Monastir is the hometown of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba. Today it is a popular beach resort in Tunisia, especially among those who want to relax inexpensively. The beaches and the sea here are pretty good, but it is still better for demanding tourists to choose another resort in the country to relax.

But there are many interesting places in Monastir. For example, the mausoleum of Khabiba Burghida, which all tourists tend to visit. Also not far from the Medina of the city is the Ribat fortress, which has retained its splendor to this day. On the ground floor you will have the opportunity to visit the Islamic Museum. The real Muslim cemetery of Sidi el Mezri will not hide from the sight of tourists. It is popular as a place of healing for seriously ill children. A small mosque has been built on the territory of the cemeteries; people often come into it to pray for the recovery of children from various ailments. There will also be an opportunity to look at traditional Arab clothing, which is presented in the museum of traditional costume. Here is a huge collection of wedding dresses, which are embroidered with precious stones.

Djerba Island is one of the best places for a beach holiday in Tunisia. The resort boasts clear turquoise seas, white sandy beaches and excellent hotels.

Separately, it is worth highlighting the sights of the island of Djerba, the most striking of which is the fortress of Gazi Mustafa. It was built from coastal sandstone. The walls of this fortress once housed a garrison of warrior monks. From its walls offers a magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea. At the very top is an observation deck. On this island is located the main synagogue of Tunisia "La Griba". It is located in the small village of Hera Segira. Also, tourists will have the opportunity to look into the favorite place of residence of pink flamingos, the Djerba Lagoon. It is worth visiting the entertainment and educational park "Djerba Explor", which is the most interesting attraction of the entire island.

5. Tunisia

The Tunis resort is not only an amazing place in Tunisia for a beach holiday, because it has gathered a huge number of all kinds of attractions. The main one is the ancient city of Carthage. It was founded back in 814 BC. Here you can see the remains of Roman sarcophagi and sculptures. In general, you will have to allocate a lot of time for its inspection. Excavations are still being carried out on its territory. It is worth visiting the mountain oasis in the Atlas Mountains - Shibiku. It offers a stunningly beautiful view of the Sahara. Tourists are also invited to visit the famous Tunisian lake, where you can see huge flocks of pink flamingos. If you have time left, then you can visit Phrygia Safari Park. About 30 species of animals live in this reserve.

Madhya is one of the best resorts in Tunisia for a relaxing or family vacation on uncrowded beaches with clean white sand. For those wishing to improve their health, the resort has the best thalassotherapy centers in the region.

Of the attractions, tourists are invited to visit the ancient fortress of Borji el Kibir, which was built in 1595. It is also worth paying attention to the Great Mosque of Mahdia, which was erected by the founder of the city, Obaid Alla el Mahdi. Deserve the attention of tourists and the gates of Skif el-Kala. They lead to the old part of the city - Medina. These gates were built in the 10th century, their purpose was to protect residential areas and the palace of the ruler. It is also worth visiting the El Jem amphitheater, which are the hallmark of the entire region. Its walls are lined with magnificent mosaics depicting hunters and riders. To this day, the amphitheater has been preserved in a dilapidated state, but still remains quite attractive to tourists.

7. Nabeul

This picturesque resort is located on the Cap Bon peninsula, in the northern part of Tunisia. The tourist infrastructure here is not at the highest level. Decent sandy beaches, clear sea and budget hotels are the main advantage of this resort. The beaches in Nabeul are not crowded, mostly public, there are also wild ones - great for a secluded holiday.

The main local attraction is the old part of the city - Medina. Here, tourists will see ancient cobbled streets, small shops and shops with all kinds of souvenirs. In the city, you can admire two main monuments to ceramic vases. One is presented in the form of a ceramic bowl with oranges, and the second in the form of a ceramic tree - amphorae. It is also worth visiting the Korba lagoon, flocks of pink flamingos come here in the winter.

8. Gammarth