We are pleased to introduce the Adventure and Outdoor Tourism Development project in Tunisia (AOTD Tunis), executed by ATTA under the "Promotion of Sustainable Tourism" project, implemented by the Ministry of Tourism with the support of GIZ and jointly funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and by the European Union as part of its program Tounes Wijhetouna - وجهتنا تونس. Within the heart of this initiative, 12 exceptional enterprises hailing from Tozeur, Zaghouan, Mahdia, and El Kef have been carefully handpicked to craft innovative, one-of-a-kind experiences and to partake in dynamic market activation endeavors.
These four regions are the playgrounds where adventure and outdoor tourism flourish, driven by a commitment to diversity, top-notch quality, cutting-edge tourism offerings, and sustainability. Through a series of articles you will learn more about these regions and this destination.
Northwest Tunisia, a lesser-known region about 100 kilometers from the capital, Tunis, is a mountainous area covered with forests, rivers, and lakes. A magnificent playground for trail running, mountain biking, camping, and observing the fauna and flora. It is largely overlooked by traditional tours, which happily spares it from mass tourism. Besides its numerous natural assets, Tabarka and its wild beaches are nearby, allowing the combination of a mountain trek with a night at the beach or vice versa. Sleeping under the stars, exploring caves adorned by artists, bathing in waterfalls, and practicing yoga in nature are among the activities that cater to all visitors, from families to seasoned athletes.
Eco-friendly accommodations
Accommodations in this region have been designed with a focus on nature and eco-responsibility. In Ain Draham, in the mountainous region of Kroumirie, the Discovery Eco-Resort offers various lodging options from treehouses to camping, including more conventional rooms. Perfectly integrated into the local life, it was created both for visitors and the local population, with a focus on interaction. It serves as a base camp for ATTES (the Tunisian Association for Fair and Solidarity Tourism), which facilitated the marking of circuits around Ain Draham and guide training. It's also a training center run by local artisans, where visitors can participate in workshops on basketry, rattan, and weaving. The Discovery Eco-Resort emphasizes exchange and also allows experiencing a comfortable night under the stars in modified pick-up trucks.
Another option for an eco-friendly experience is Les Chaumières de Ain Draham, nestled in the forest of the same name and located 40 minutes from Tabarka beach. In addition to the three cottages with contemporary design, the property also offers mountain biking accompanied by a qualified guide, hikes, and walks with a donkey for families. During the fall season, mushroom foraging can also be arranged.
More and more, hosts not only provide shelter and meals but also enable their guests to experience the region independently or with accompanying sports activities suited for everyone.
El Kef, the bivouac capital
F.A.R.S (Feeling Adventure Road Sense), a company founded in 2021 by Meher Djebali, demonstrates that outdoor tourism can be taught. This young entrepreneur was born and raised in Kef, Tunisia, and trained at ASEZ in Zaghouan. Passionate about extreme sports, as well as ornithology and local culture, he combines all his interests in his circuits. There is something for everyone: hiking, archaeological and artistic discovery, heritage visits combined with a tasting of local cuisine. He also offers camping equipment rental, sales, and weekends for novice campers. The approach to outdoor tourism also involves learning: learning to embrace the environment, understanding bivouacking techniques, orienteering, and stargazing are also part of customer demand.
In Tunisia, it is necessary to depart from the well-trodden paths to reach destinations imperceptible in the catalogs of traditional travel agencies. Tunisians love their country and strive to make it accessible (without altering it) to outdoor sports enthusiasts. The journey has just begun, but initiatives are well underway!
To learn more about this region and the AOTD Tunis project, visit Adventure.Travel.