Is Tunisia Safe to Visit? An Honest 2027 Guide

Is Tunisia safe to visit? Yes, for the places almost all visitors go. Tunisia is not at war, and more than 11 million international tourists visited in 2025, a record. The US rates Tunisia Level 2, “Exercise increased caution,” the same level it gives France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. Both the US and UK advise against travel to a few specific areas: the mountains near the Algerian border around Kasserine, and the zone along the border with Libya. Tunis, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, Sousse, Monastir, Hammamet, Djerba, El Jem and the Sahara oases of Tozeur and Douz are all outside them. This guide explains the official advice, the risks, everyday safety and practical tips, with every source linked.

Planning a trip? Start with our complete Tunisia travel guide and our Tunisia visa guide.

The short answer

• Is Tunisia safe for tourists? Yes, in the main cities, resorts, archaeological sites and Sahara oases.
• Is there a war or conflict? No. Tunisia is not at war.
• What does the US say? Level 2, “Exercise increased caution” (reissued May 21, 2026), the same level as France and the UK.
• Where should I not go? The Chaambi mountains and nearby military zones in Kasserine province, and the area along the Libyan border.
• How many people visit? More than 11 million international tourists in 2025, a record, including record numbers from the UK.

What official travel advice says

Official advice for Tunisia is moderate overall, with firm warnings for a few border areas. Here is how two governments describe it as of November 2026.

Note that the Roman site of Sbeitla, in Kasserine province, falls in the UK’s “all but essential travel” area. If you plan to visit the north-west near the Algerian border, check your exact route against current advice. Always read the latest version for your own country before you travel.

Where visitors go

Tunisia’s main sights are well outside the restricted areas, and they receive millions of visitors every year.

• Tunis, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said on the north coast.
• The Sahel coast: Sousse, Monastir, Hammamet, Mahdia and the amphitheater of El Jem.
• Kairouan and the Roman city of Dougga.
• Djerba island and the coast of Zarzis.
• The Sahara: Tozeur, Nefta, Douz, Matmata and Ksar Ghilane, usually visited with a local driver or tour.

Terrorism and security

Tunisia suffered serious terrorist attacks in 2015, at the Bardo Museum in Tunis and on a beach near Sousse. Security at museums, hotels, airports and tourist areas has been heavily reinforced since then, and tourism has recovered to record levels. Governments still say attacks are possible, as they do for much of Europe.

• Expect visible security: police at hotels, museums and checkpoints on main roads.
• Carry your passport or a copy at all times.
• Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
• Don’t photograph police, soldiers or government buildings.

Everyday safety and scams

For most visitors, the main annoyances in Tunisia are touts and taxis, not crime.

• Taxis: insist on the meter in cities, or agree on the fare first.
• “Guides” in the medina: friendly strangers may offer to show you a “special” shop; a polite no is enough.
• Petty theft: watch bags and phones in crowded souks, on the TGM train and on beaches.
• Driving: road accidents are a bigger risk than crime. Avoid driving long distances at night.
• Heat: in summer, carry water and avoid the midday sun, especially in the south.

Is Tunisia safe for women and solo travelers?

Tunisia is one of the most liberal countries in North Africa, and women travel there alone and in groups. Unwanted comments and attention are the most common complaints. Dress modestly away from beaches and resorts, use registered taxis at night and sit with other women or families on public transport where possible. A local guide makes the medinas and the south much more relaxed for solo travelers.

Money and documents

Money and paperwork in Tunisia are simple if you know two rules: the dinar can’t leave the country, and many nationalities need no visa.

• Visa: many nationalities, including US and UK citizens, can visit without a visa for up to 90 days. See our Tunisia visa guide.
• Currency: the Tunisian dinar cannot be taken out of the country. Keep your exchange receipts, and declare foreign currency on arrival if required.
• Cards: accepted in hotels and many restaurants in tourist areas, but carry cash for markets, taxis and small shops.
• Insurance: check that your policy covers your route, especially if you go near the border areas.

Travel with a local guide

Simsem’s Tunisia host, Mohamed Ben Naceur, is based in Sousse and runs tours along the coast and to the Roman sites:

See all Tunisia experiences on Simsem.

FAQ