Tour Detail
Kairouan, the 4th holiest city in the Islamic world. The visit starts from the 9Th century Aghlabides basins seen from the top with an introduction to the foundation of Kairouan and its glorious ages. Moving to the grand mosque, the oldest in North Africa, continue to the nearby Sidi Sahbi (a companion of prophet Mohamed) with an introduction to some Tunisian traditions. End the visit with a walk through the medina and its exotic charm. Visit of El Jem (Thysdrus) Roman amphitheater, the third biggest & the best-preserved one in the Roman world. Terminate with the visit of the famous Museum of El Jem.
Highlights
• Explore Historic El Jem: Discover the impressive ancient amphitheater and rich history of El Jem.
• Uncover the Heritage of Kairouan: Visit the sacred city of Kairouan, famous for its historic mosques and architecture.
• Led by a Licensed Guide: Gain insights from a knowledgeable, licensed tour guide.
• Convenient Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off: Enjoy easy transportation from your accommodation in Tunis or Hammamet.
• Lunch in Kairouan or El Jem: Relish a local meal in either Kairouan or El Jem.
• Entrance Fees Included: Experience each site with all entrance fees covered.
• Travel in Comfort: Relax in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.
Itinerary
Departure from your accommodation in Tunis or Hammamet to Kairouan on a 2-hour drive. Begin your visit with the 9th-century Aghlabite Basins, among the grandest waterworks of the Middle Ages, viewed from the top of the Tourist Information Building. These basins provide an introduction to the foundation and flourishing era of Kairouan.
Continue to the 7th-century Great Okba Mosque, the oldest mosque in North Africa, where visitors can appreciate the profound beauty and spiritual significance of this 9th-century structure. Next, visit the nearby Sidi Sahbi, a 17th-19th-century building with a minaret and charming courtyards adorned with green-blue tiles and white stucco. Proceed to the entrance of the Medina for a guided walk along the main street of this mystical area. Free time will be available for personal exploration and shopping in the Medina.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before traveling to El Jem (approximately 70 km, a 1-hour 15-minute drive). El Jem’s amphitheater, a 3rd-century AD (230-240 AD) marvel, stands as Tunisia’s most visited site and the largest Roman monument in Africa. Ranking third in size in the Roman Empire after Rome and Verona, its architecture marks an advancement over Rome’s Coliseum.
The tour concludes with a return to your hotel in Tunis or Hammamet, a 3-hour drive from El Jem.
Inclusions
Licensed Tour Guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Tunis or Hammamet
Lunch in Kairouan or El Jem
Entrance Fees
Transport by air-conditioned car
Exclusions
Hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels in other cities
Gratuities (optional)