A guide to weather in Tunisia

In the right place

This placement means many regions boast a year-round warm climate and an abundance of sunshine. Of course, Tunisia’s climate varies vastly and specific weather conditions depend on which side of the country you decide to stay in. If you’re planning a holiday to Tunisia have a look through our regional weather guide and get some inspiration for your next North African adventure.

The North

Northern Tunisia is a popular spot to holiday, thanks to its typical Mediterranean climate. Here you’ll find hot dry summers and mild winters. In the summer be prepared for hot, hot, hot. Temperatures in July and August can reach 35°C. Luckily the Atlas Mountains stretch across Tunisia from north to east and create a feature called the Dorsai. The Dorsai helps cut off some of the Saharan heat and the coastal winds from the Mediterranean bring a much welcomed breeze.

Tunisia’s capital city Tunis can be found on this northern coastline and it’s the main reason the north is such a stomping ground for holidaymakers. Tunis is best visited in the autumn, when you’ll still get all the warm temperatures but have fewer crowds to deal with.

Average temperatures in the autumn are 23°C with 10 hours of sunshine a day. The winter here is incredibly mild thanks to the Mediterranean and drops no lower than 10°C. Spring is also a fantastic time to visit the north, with warm weather and beautiful wildflowers popping up everywhere.

Eastern Coast

The east coast is known as one of the most desirable places to live in all of Tunisia, because of its temperate climate and cool sea breeze. In the summer you’ll be greeted with exceptional hot weather, averaging around 30°C. But, because of its location, winds from the Mediterranean mean the evenings are pleasant and much cooler.

During the summer the east coast also sees 12 hours of sunshine a day, ideal conditions for a glorious beach-centered Tunisia package holiday.

As summer turns to autumn and winter, the coastal regions – like Sousse and Hammamet – get an influx of wet weather usually appearing in heavy showers that last for a few hours. Winter can get very cool and sometimes dips below 0°C at night, so make sure to bring some warmer clothes with you if you want to travel during this period.

The east coast is, unsurprisingly, full of resorts, taking advantage of the country’s exceptional pristine beaches and the warm sea water during the summers, just right for snorkelling.

The South

The south of Tunisia is home to the Sahara desert, and here you’ll find a rocky terrain and a semi-arid climate. The Sahara is known for having one of the most unforgiving climates in the world, so be picky when choosing the best time to visit.

It’s best to avoid this area in both the summer and winter months as the south can experience highs of 50°C and lows dipping into frosty subzero temperatures. In January the southern region experiences sandstorms, another reason winter is best avoided. The Sahara desert by definition is incredibly dry as it sees only short bursts of rain throughout the year.

With all this to take into account the south of Tunisia is best visited between October and December. Temperatures during these months will be milder and you’ll be able to experience the majesty and wonder of the Sahara without all the extreme weather.