How to Explore Tunisia’s Ancient Sites as a Nigerian Tourist 

For Nigerians who enjoy history, culture, and archaeology, Tunisia is one of the most rewarding travel spots in North Africa. With ruins that date back to Carthage, the Roman Empire, and Islamic dynasties, Tunisia’s ancient sites provide an opportunity to walk through civilizations that shaped the Mediterranean world. 

From the grand Amphitheatre of El Jem to the Medina of Tunis, Tunisia blends history with modern hospitality. This article covers how Nigerians can discover Tunisia’s ancient treasures, including visa requirements, travel costs, accommodations, tours, and what to expect. 

Why Visit Tunisia as a Nigerian Tourist 

1. Ancient Carthage: Explore the remains of a once-great civilization.
2. Roman Monuments: Colosseum-like amphitheatres and aqueducts.
3. Islamic Architecture: Stunning mosques and medinas.
4. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Tunisia has 8 recognized sites.
5. Affordable Costs: Tunisia is cheaper than Europe. 

Visa Requirements for Nigerians 

Nigerians need a tourist visa to enter Tunisia. 

Application Process: 

• Where: Tunisian Embassy in Abuja.
• Processing Time: 10 to 15 working days.
• Visa Fee: $50 (₦75,000). 

Requirements: 

1. Valid Nigerian passport (6 months or more).
2. Completed visa application form.
3. Passport photos.
4. Proof of accommodation.
5. Return flight booking.
6. Bank statement from the last 6 months.
7. Yellow Fever vaccination card. 

Flights from Nigeria to Tunisia 

There are no direct flights, but Nigerians can travel via Europe or North Africa. 

Options: 

• Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul).
• EgyptAir (via Cairo).
• Royal Air Maroc (via Casablanca). 

Cost: $700 to $1,200 (₦1,050,000 to ₦1,800,000 round trip).

Duration: 9 to 15 hours, depending on layovers. 

Getting Around Tunisia 

1. Trains: Connect Tunis, Sousse, El Jem, and Sfax. They are cheap and reliable.
2. Louage (Shared Taxi): Common for travel between cities.
3. Buses: Comfortable and budget-friendly.
4. Car Rentals: $30 to $50 per day (₦45,000 to ₦75,000). 

Top Ancient Sites in Tunisia 

1. Carthage 

• Once the capital of a great empire.  
• Explore the Punic Ports, Antonine Baths, and Byrsa Hill.   

Entrance Fee: $4 (₦6,000). 

2. El Jem Amphitheatre 

• A Roman colosseum that rivals Rome’s.   
• Capacity of 35,000 spectators.   

Entrance Fee: $6 (₦9,000). 

3. Medina of Tunis 

• A UNESCO World Heritage site.   
• Narrow streets, souks, mosques, and palaces.   

Free entry, but tours cost about $20 (₦30,000). 

4. Dougga (Thugga)

• A Roman town with intact temples, theatres, and streets.   

Entrance Fee: $3 (₦4,500). 

5. Kairouan 

• An Islamic holy city with the Great Mosque of Kairouan.   
• A UNESCO site and center of Islamic learning.   

Entrance Fee: $5 (₦7,500). 

6. Sbeitla 

• Roman ruins with remarkable arches and temples.   

Entrance Fee: $4 (₦6,000). 

7. Bulla Regia 

• Unique underground Roman houses.   

Entrance Fee: $3 (₦4,500). 

8. Medina of Sousse

• Another UNESCO site, with fortresses, souks, and mosques.   

Free entry. 

Accommodation in Tunisia 

• Budget Hotels/Hostels: $20 to $40 per night (₦30,000 to ₦60,000).
• Mid-Range Hotels: $50 to $100 per night (₦75,000 to ₦150,000).
• Luxury Resorts: $200 to $400 per night (₦300,000 to ₦600,000). 

Popular choices include:   

• Dar Ben Gacem (Tunis).   
• Hôtel Carlton Tunis.   
• Mövenpick Hotel Sousse.   
• Hasdrubal Thalassa Hammamet. 

Food and Dining Costs 

Tunisian cuisine blends Mediterranean, Berber, and Arab influences. 

Popular Dishes:

• Couscous.
• Brik (fried pastry with egg and tuna).
• Lablabi (chickpea soup).
• Grilled seafood. 

Costs: 

• Street food: ₦3,000 to ₦6,000.
• Mid-range restaurant: ₦12,000 to ₦20,000.
• Fine dining: ₦30,000 to ₦60,000. 

Best Time to Visit 

• Spring (March to May): Mild weather, perfect for exploring ruins.
• Autumn (September to November): Comfortable temperatures.
• Summer (June to August): Hot but great for the beach and ruins. 

Safety for Nigerians in Tunisia 

1. Tunisia is generally safe for tourists.  
2. Avoid late-night travel in isolated areas.
3. Respect dress codes in mosques.
4. Beware of pickpockets in markets.
5. Carry cash in Tunisian dinar.  

7-Day Budget Estimate 

1. Visa: ₦75,000.   
2. Flights: ₦1,050,000 to ₦1,800,000.   
3. Transport: ₦90,000 to ₦150,000.   
4. Accommodation: ₦210,000 to ₦900,000.   
5. Food: ₦90,000 to ₦210,000.   
6. Entrance Fees: ₦45,000 to ₦75,000.   
7. Tours & Guides: ₦150,000 to ₦300,000.   

Total Estimate (7 Days): ₦1,665,000 to ₦3,510,000. 

For Nigerians who appreciate history and heritage, experiencing Tunisia’s ancient sites is a great alternative to traveling to Europe for ruins. With budget-friendly options, interesting UNESCO sites, and a vibrant culture, Tunisia is one of the best places in Africa to connect with ancient history.