Understanding Tunisia’s climate is essential for planning travel, agriculture, or everyday life.
Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate in the north and along the coast, transitioning to a semi-arid and desert climate in the interior and south.
| Region | Climate Type | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| North (Tunis, Bizerte) | Mediterranean | Mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers |
| Central (Kairouan, Sfax) | Semi-arid | Warmer and drier with greater temperature swings |
| South (Tozeur, Tataouine) | Desert (Saharan) | Hot, arid with minimal rainfall |
Weather: Pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
Rainfall: Light to moderate in the north.
Ideal for: Sightseeing, hiking, and festivals like International Festival of the Sahara (if late spring).
Weather: Hot and dry, especially inland and in the south.
Coastal: 30°C to 35°C
Desert: 40°C+ (can feel hotter with sirocco winds)
Tourism: Peak season on the Mediterranean coast—expect crowds in Sousse, Hammamet, and Djerba.
Weather: Gradually cooler; still warm in September.
Rain: Increases toward November, especially in the north.
Ideal for: City trips, desert excursions, and exploring ruins like Dougga or El Djem.
Weather: Mild on the coast (10–15°C), colder inland and in mountainous areas.
Rain: Common in the north; rare in the south.
Snow: Possible in the northwest mountains (Kef, Ain Draham).
Ideal for: Desert tourism, cultural visits, and off-season travel.
Mediterranean with average highs of 33°C in summer and 16°C in winter.
Humid, with some rainfall in winter and early spring.
Milder winters (around 18°C) and hot summers.
Very dry—perfect for beach lovers almost year-round.
Very hot summers—temperatures can exceed 45°C.
Cool, sunny winters—ideal for visiting oases and desert adventures.
Drought: Increasingly frequent, especially in central and southern regions.
Water scarcity: A growing concern due to climate change and agricultural demand.
Desertification: Encroaching sand and wind erosion in the south.
| Travel Goal | Best Time of Year |
|---|---|
| Beach holidays | Late May to early October |
| Desert tours | October to March |
| Cultural/historic sites | March–May or September–November |
Spring/Fall: Light jacket, comfortable clothing, layers.
Summer: Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
Winter: Warm clothing for the north, especially in rural areas.
In summary, Tunisia’s weather varies widely by region and season. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins, lounging on a Mediterranean beach, or venturing into the Sahara, the country offers a climate to match every traveler’s preference.
