Audio Guide of the Ancient Medina of Tamerza

The Ancient Medina has no set opening hours, as it is an open-air site. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours (ideally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM). To get there, the best option is by taxi or private car from nearby cities such as Tozeur (45 minutes). There is no direct public transport. Check routes at Tunisia Tourism.

There is no official entrance fee for the Ancient Medina. However, if you hire a local guide (recommended to understand the history), they usually charge between 20 and 30 dinars (€6-10). The small nearby museum may have a symbolic fee (around 5 dinars).

It is recommended to allow 2 to 3 hours. This gives you enough time to explore the abandoned village ruins, the views over the palm grove, and the old souk, as well as take photographs. If you also include the canyon viewpoint and the local museum, add 1 more hour.

It was an important trading post between Tunisia and Algeria for centuries. Its abandonment in 1969 after severe floods turned it into a "ghost village." The ruins display traditional Berber architecture, including the old mosque and adobe houses.

The best time is spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), with mild temperatures (20-25°C). In summer, temperatures exceed 40°C. The best time of day is early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the golden light on the ruins.

It is not accessible. The terrain is uneven, with cobbled streets, stairs, and rubble. Sturdy closed shoes are necessary. Wheelchairs and strollers are difficult to maneuver because of the steep level changes.

Within less than 5 km you will find: 1) The Great Canyon of Tamerza with a spectacular viewpoint. 2) The oasis and natural waterfall. 3) The hotel-museum Le Palais Tamerza (former residence of the bey). 4) The palm grove of Chebika.

Bring: sunscreen, a hat, and water (there is no shade), cash (to buy local handicrafts), closed sports shoes, and a camera. Hire a guide on site (€15-20) to understand the Berber history. Avoid windy days because of possible sandstorms.