This warm north African nation is dotted all over with historical landmarks left over by the ancient Romans and the Phoenicians of the Carthaginian Empire. Ancient city ruins, theaters, and forts of both classical and later eras are all awaiting exploration. Not only that Tunisia also boasts wonderful sandy beaches and small bleached hamlets along the coast. Although Tunisia has a lot to offer there are also hazards visitors should beware of.

Traveling info

All visitors traveling to Tunisia must have a valid passport. Certain nationals are exempt from the requirements of obtaining a visa and are allowed for a stay of up to 90 days. Other nationals must obtain a visa prior to entering the country. Entry fees vary depending on nationality. Tourists who choose to drive in Tunisia must have a valid domestic driving permit. Although an international driving permit is not obligatory it may come in handy. There is zero tolerance of alcohol in the bloodstream while driving policy. If caught drinking and driving jail time and deportation are the usual punishment for tourists.

Traveling hazards

Road conditions vary across Tunisia. Although all the major roads and highways are well paved and well maintained, all of these are subject to blowing sands in the south of the country. Sands on the road may create difficulties in driving and increase the threat of an accident. When driving off the beaten path and driving into the desert it is best to drive in caravans of 2 or 3. A solid 4×4 is required, extra fuel, water, and parts to replace are indispensable to survive. Local drivers often ignore traffic laws and drive at excessive speeds, often without headlights on. Animals often wander out onto the rural roads creating additional danger.

Environmental hazards

The wildlife of Tunisia certainly makes it up to the African standards. Although lions and leopards no longer inhabit the areas of Tunisia, hyenas are still very well established in the country and can be very dangerous for humans. Although these animals generally tend to avoid humans, an injured-looking or incapacitated person being alone will certainly be attacked. Tunisia is inhabited by the most dangerous scorpion in the world. The fat-tailed scorpion has venom potent enough to kill a man within 6 hours. The sting is much more dangerous for children and the elderly. Snakes inhabit areas of Tunisia also however these are rare in around the resorts and urban areas. The Mediterranean waters are generally safe, sharks are sighted rarely and shark attacks are virtually unheard of.
Tunisia generally does not suffer from any severe natural hazards with the exception of flooding during the rainy season.

Health hazards

There are currently no outbreaks of any diseases in Tunisia and although there are no required vaccinations there are several vaccines which are recommended. These are the routine vaccines, typhoid, hepatitis A and B and rabies vaccine. The public healthcare sector is in quite a bad state. Although the hospitals are capable to deliver service waiting times can get extremely long. Public facilities are very overcrowded. The private sector, however, delivers service much quicker and with higher quality.
In case of an emergency dial 190.

Crime

Crime is a concern in Tunisia, petty crime is common however since the last 2015 terrorist attack where 38 people were killed and 30 injured resort security has been increased through government initiative. No attack has taken place since then however ISIL insurgents are known to operate along the border with Libya. To stay safe in Tunis it is advised to avoid traveling close to the border with Libya and Algeria. Tourist areas, however, are generally considered safe. Although crime still concerns tourist areas, instances of violent crime are very rare. Theft such as pickpocketing or bag snatching is common. To avoid becoming a victim it is best to stay low key, wearing flashy jewelry and exposing signs of wealth increases the chances of attracting thieves. The darker it gets the more dangerous it usually is. When traveling at night it is best to avoid public transport, it is safest to either travel in a rented car or ordering a taxi in the hotel reception. Tunisia drug laws are very strict and possession of even small amounts can result in lengthy jail time.

Summary

Since the last terrorist attack more and more tourists are returning to Tunisian resorts. The situation has calmed down and visitors once again may admire the wonders of this north African nation. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/africa/tunisia/passport-visa/
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/tunisia
(Terrorism risk areas)
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/tunisia