Weather is important to consider when planning travel to a new destination. It’s also one of the last things I think about. Whether it’s Sweden or Italy, South America or North Africa, I’ve seen the pictures and know what to expect – sun, comfortable temperatures, and bliss.
I’ve learned that the pictures are right and wrong. Every destination has its share of stunning things to see and experience. And though the weather might be nice, it’s rarely perfect. Now I find out ahead of time what to expect so I can plan and pack accordingly.
Tunisia is generally warm and sunny, but there are differences between its seasons that are good to know about. Here’s what you need to know about Tunisia’s weather each season of the year.
Summer Weather in Tunisia
Tunisia’s sunny days and warm Mediterranean sea make it a popular summer destination. Like other Mediterranean countries, it’s sunny virtually every day during the summer. This makes it easy to pack and plan for your tour.
- Time frame: Early June- early October
- Day time temperatures: 85-95F / 29-35C
- Ideal activities: Swimming and relaxing at the Mediterranean, touring historical sites, hiking in the morning or evening
- Activities that are difficult to do: Camel treks into the Sahara, hiking near the Sahara
- Weather considerations: The sun is strong during the afternoon, so consider limiting exposure, drink plenty of water, and use sun block.
- Clothing to pack: Shorts, short-sleeve shirts, one pair slacks/long skirt for visits to religious sites or nice restaurants, swimsuit, hat, good quality sandals for walking.
Other items to pack: Good quality sunscreen, good sunglasses.
Other Tunisia summer tips: Consider having down time at your hotel after lunch when the sun is the strongest. Many Tunisians have a siesta during this time. It’s a practical way to cool down and recharge to do activities later in the afternoon and evening.
Fall Weather in Tunisia
Fall in Tunisia is characterized by pleasantly warm days and cool evenings. It’s prime season to do activities that were difficult to do during the summer months, such as camping and hiking in the Sahara.
- Time frame: Mid-October through mid-December
- Day time temperatures: 65-75F / 18-24C
- Ideal activities: Camping in the Sahara, touring the south, visiting Berber villages, hiking, visiting an olive grove during harvest, touring historical sites.
- Activities that are difficult to do: Swimming in the Mediterranean may be too cold for some travelers.
- Weather considerations: Thunderstorms can occur, so you may need to rearrange travel plans accordingly.
- Clothing to pack: Shorts, jeans/slacks, short-sleeve shirts, two long sleeve shirts or sweaters, light jacket, hat, good walking shoes.
- Other items to pack: Travel umbrella, insect repellent, sunglasses.
Winter Weather in Tunisia
Many travelers are pleasantly surprised by how much they can see and do during the winter in Tunisia. On most days there’s plenty of sun, with highs in the 60’s F/ 15-20 C. It’s a great time of year to visit historical sites, hike in national parks, and visit the south.
- Time frame: Mid-December through mid-March
- Day time temperatures: 60-65 F / 15-18C
- Ideal activities: Hiking in national parks (especially birdwatching in Ishkeul), touring historical sites, visiting southern Tunisia
- Activities that are difficult to do: Swimming in the Mediterranean, camping in the Sahara (nights are chilly, but if you bundle up you’ll be fine).
- Weather considerations: Rain is the most likely weather issue to disrupt your plans. If you have an umbrella, you’ll be able to continue on with most of your activities.
- Clothing to pack: Jeans/slacks, long-sleeve shirts or sweaters, warm jacket, one or two short-sleeve shirts, good walking shoes.
- Other items to pack: Travel umbrella
Spring weather in Tunisia
Spring is a delightful time to visit Tunisia. You know spring has begun when the acacia, olive, and orange trees bloom to life. Fig trees and grape vines also put out their first leaves to welcome the warmer temperatures. Temperatures are warm during the day and comfortable during the evenings. With longer days and warmer temperatures, you can see and experience the best Tunisia has to offer.
- Time frame: Mid-March-late May
- Day time temperatures: 70-80F / 21-26C
- Ideal activities: Camping in the Sahara, touring southern Tunisia, visting Berber villages, hiking, visiting historical sites.
- Activities that are difficult to do: Swimming in the Mediterranean may be too cold for some travelers.
- Weather considerations: Wind is the main weather consideration to prepare for. Though it’s not a major issue, you’ll want a light jacket and hat on windy days.
- Clothing to pack: Jeans/slacks, short-sleeve shirts, one pair of shorts, one warm shirt or sweater, light jacket, hat to protect from wind and sun, good walking shoes (or good sandals in May).
- Other items to pack: Sunblock, sunglasses.
Making the Most of Your Time in Tunisia
Tunisia offers a great variety of history, culture, sea, and desert. If you have flexibility in your travel schedule, plan the timing of your visit based on what interests you most. If your travel dates are fixed, there will always be plenty to see and do.
With a little planning, you can have a great tour of Tunisia no matter what season you visit.
