please note: We rely on a third party for accuracy in these maps. We cannot accept any liability for incorrect information.
please click on image to see a larger version.
Djerba - an overview
The charms of Djerba will hold you spellbound. This green island is famous for its wonderful beaches. The island is covered with thousands of flowers, date palms and olive trees and dotted with white houses. Medenine is surrounded by scenic hills and ancient villages just begging to be explored.
As alluring in the winter as the rest of the year, with a temperature that never drops below 15° C (59° F), Djerba is no barren desert island. Wander up the beautiful soft sand beaches and you'll discover a lush garden of olive tress and fragrant orange groves. Along with the picturesque capital of Houmt Souk, there are beautiful whitewashed mosques and traditional menzels (fortified smallhoildings) to explore.
Back on the mainland, 40 km (25 miles) to the southwest, the attractions of Medenine will add to the pleasure of visiting this region. One a bustling stopping off point for caravans, the city provides an idyllic base for your ventures into the ksour (fortified villages) scattered amongst the surrounding hills.
Djerba - attraction information
Houmt Souk Djerba's main town houses an amazing fortress (Boor El-Kebir), located down by the sea and built in the 15th century to protect Djerba from Spanish invasion. A tour in town is also recommended to get a glimpse of Tunisian life, from the fishing port to the lively markets, and the beautiful "funduqs" houses (some are hundred of years old). There is also a special small church and two notable mosques (Mosque of the Turks and Mosque of the Strangers).
Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires The museum features beautiful collections of traditional costumes, Jewish and Muslim jewels... Address: Zaouia Sidi Zitouni Phone: +216 75 65 05 40 Musée des Traditions Guellala The picturesque village of Guellala is renowned for its ceramics. The Museum presents the richness of Derjba's traditions. Built on a hill, it's also one of the best views over the island! Address: Guellala The Ghriba Synagogue Situated in the village of Er Riadh, the synagogue serves as the focal point of Jews in North Africa. It has been a holy place for 1400 years! Address: Er-Riadh (Harah Sghira) Djerba
The mosques Among the many mosques in Djerba's villages, two should not be missed: The Turkish Mosque in El May, in the heart of the island. With its whitewashed walls, this fortified mosque is simply beautiful! El May's market is also worth a visit. In Mellita, another village near the airport, the 9th century Mosque is one of the oldest in the world.
Djerba - getting there
Airport Djerba-Zarzis International Airport is located near Mellita just 8 kilometres from Houmt Souk. Taxis are the most efficient and fastest way to get in town (about 9 TND in 15 minutes). Phone: + 216 75 650 233
Ferry For those who arrive by car, the ferry between Jorf and Ajim (south west of the island) runs every hour from 4am to midnight and every two hours from midnight to 4am (free for pedestrians). Address: Port d'Ajim Phone: +216 75 660 002
Public Transport The best way to get anywhere in Djerba is by taxi. They are cheap and readily available in all main beach resorts, everywhere and at all times of the day or night. A 15 km ride costs on average about 5 TND. Once you find a taxi driver you like, ask for his phone number and he will be happy to come pick you up and give you a ride whenever. If you're a group, another good option is to use shared taxis which go to a fixed destination. They leave only when they're full. If you need a booking back to the airport, it's also good to ask your hotel.If you have time, an original way to explore Djerba is by bicycle or small motorbike. Ask your hotel for more details about rentals.