Best time to visit Tunisia

Birdwatching in Tunisia

Some unique locations of Tunisia are a refuge for many amazing birds

Best time: March–May | October–February

Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching

A variety of environmental zones makes Tunisia an incredibly attractive place for birdmen. Most of 393 species recorded here are of desert origin. You can observe really rare and beautiful birds in this area: Marbled Teal (Marmaronetta angustirostris), Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca) and White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala).

You can also come across a unique opportunity to see the American flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber). These graceful birds can be frequently observed in the Gulf of Gabès and Djerba. But still, the most famous spot for birding is Ichkeul Lake. Many birds stop here before continuing their long journey further. Another good place for birding is El Haouaria city with rocks and sleepy villages around. A lot of feathered friends concentrate at El Haouaria mountains where they can recharge before the crossing to Europe.

The best time to watch all these stunning species is from October to February when huge flocks keep arriving. Winter is a perfect time for birding in the Gulf of Gabès zone and Djerba. El Haouaria area can be promising place between March and May.

Practical info

What are some unique bird species that can be observed in Tunisia?

Tunisia is a home to many unique bird species which are mostly of the desert origin. The birdwatchers can spot many of these rare species like Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca), White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala), Marbled Teal (Marmaronetta angustirostris), and Phoenicopterus ruber, also known as American flamingo. The visitors can visit prime locations like Gulf of Gabès and Djerba to spot the American flamingo while Ichkeul Lake is the most famous birdwatching spot in Tunisia. Show more

Where is the most popular birdwatching spot in Tunisia?

Ichkeul Lake, located in the north-west of Tunisia, is the most sought-after destination for birdwatchers. The site serves as a pit stop for many species of migrating birds, which makes it a perfect location to spot different bird species. The Ramsar Convention has been protecting the lake since 1977 and it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an ideal habitat for many bird species to survive for the years to come. Show more

When is the best time to go birding in the Gulf of Gabès zone and Djerba?

Winter is the ideal time for bird watchers to visit Gulf of Gabès zone and Djerba, which spans from October through to February. Indeed, most of the bird species in the area are winter visitors, and the season marks the peak migration period. The migratory bird watchers can find it as the best opportunity to spot some unique bird species, including the American flamingo, which prefer to winter in Djerba. Show more

Where is El Haouaria located in Tunisia and why is it a good place for birding?

El Haouaria is located in the North of Tunisia and offers an ideal location for bird watching. Surrounded by rocky terrain and sleepy villages, the area is a recommended spot for birds to rest and recharge before continuing their migration journey to Europe. The bird watchers can also view some impressive birds like Short-toed eagles and Black kites while they rest on the mountainous terrain around the city. Show more

When is the best time to visit El Haouaria for birdwatching?

The best time to visit El Haouaria for bird watching is between March and May. During this time, many bird species stop at the site on their journey to Europe, giving visitors an excellent opportunity to view them in their natural surroundings. The rocky terrain and sleepy villages provide these migratory birds with an excellent resting area. The mountains' ease of access also aids visitors in viewing majestic creatures like Black kites and Short-toed eagles. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin