Tunisia · Beach & Island

4-Day Tunisia Coastal Adventure with Kerkennah and El Biben

4 Days Round trip from Kerkennah Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the Island Heritage Museum, salt flats, and palm groves on Kerkennah
02 Learn the traditional charfiya fishing method with local fishermen
03 Walk around the El Biben Lagoon and observe its unique ecosystem and birdlife
04 Cruise to Hassi Jerbi for swimming, snorkelling, and white-sand beach relaxation
05 Savor fresh seafood and octopus dishes as part of traditional island meals
06 Visit village workshops and engage with local artisans to discover island crafts

Embark on a 4-day immersive journey through Tunisia's hidden coastal gems, combining cultural heritage, local traditions, and pristine nature. Discover the tranquil charm of Kerkennah Island as you explore the Island Heritage Museum, salt flats, and palm groves, swim in clear waters, and join local fishermen to learn the ancient charfiya fishing technique. Savor seafood-based meals, visit artisan villages and workshops, and experience warm hospitality. Continue to the preserved natural reserve of El Biben for an eco-lodge stay, a guided walk through lagoons and dunes, and a boat trip to the unspoiled white-sand beach of Hassi Jerbi.

Continue to the preserved natural reserve of El Biben for an eco-lodge stay, a guided walk through lagoons and dunes, and a boat trip to the unspoiled white-sand beach of Hassi Jerbi.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Monastir, Hammamet, Sfax, Sousse, Tunis

Languages Arabic, English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Journey to Kerkennah Island

Depart early in the morning based on your city of origin:
Tunis: 04:00
Hammamet: 04:30
Sousse: 05:00
Monastir: 05:15
Arrive at Sfax Port by 09:00.
Board the ferry to Kerkennah at 09:30 for a scenic 1.5-hour sea journey.
Reach Kerkennah Island by 11:00 and transfer to your accommodation.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at 13:00 featuring island specialties such as seafood and octopus.
Begin a guided afternoon island tour at 15:00, including:
- The Island Heritage Museum
- Traditional salt flats and palm groves
Relax during your free time at 17:30 or swim in the clear waters.
Dine at 20:00 and spend the night in Kerkennah.

Day 02

Fishing Traditions and Village Life

Start your day with breakfast at 08:00.
Join local fishermen at 09:00 for a sea outing:
- Discover the traditional fishing method called charfiya
- Participate actively or simply observe the process
Savor a home-cooked lunch at 12:30 at a local residence featuring fresh sea-based cuisine.
Explore the island's villages, crafts, and artisan workshops at 15:00 during your free time.
Have dinner at 19:30 and enjoy another overnight stay in Kerkennah.

Day 03

El Biben and Its Preserved Nature

Wake early and eat breakfast at 06:30.
Transfer to the port and take the 07:30 ferry back to Sfax.
Drive to the El Biben region (Zarzis area) at 09:30, with a scenic 4-hour journey.
Check in at an eco-lodge or eco-comfort camp by 13:30.
Enjoy a southern-style lunch at 14:30.
Join a guided nature walk around the El Biben Lagoon at 16:00:
- Observe the unique lagoon ecosystem
- Enjoy opportunities for birdwatching, walking on dunes, and relaxing on pristine beaches
Dine at 19:30 and stay overnight at El Biben.

Day 04

Boat Trip to Hassi Jerbi and Return

Have breakfast at 07:30.
Embark on a boat trip at 08:30 to the wild white-sand beach of Hassi Jerbi.
Swim, snorkel, and relax during the cruise experience until 12:30.
Stop for an optional quick seaside lunch in Zarzis at 13:00.
Begin the return journey at 14:00 to your respective destinations:
- Monastir: 19:00
- Sousse: 19:30
- Hammamet: 20:00
- Tunis: 21:00

Where this trip takes you

Kerkennah Island, Island Heritage Museum, El Biben Lagoon, Hassi Jerbi white-sand beach

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kerkennah 5 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Round-trip transport from Tunis, Hammamet, Sousse, and Monastir
Round-trip ferry between Sfax and Kerkennah Islands
Two nights' accommodation in Kerkennah (guesthouse or charming hotel)
One night's stay in El Biben (eco-lodge or eco-comfort camp)
Full board with all meals included, featuring local Tunisian cuisine
All activities and excursions: traditional fishing experience, El Biben lagoon walk, and Hassi Jerbi boat cruise
Services of a local guide and continuous on-ground assistance

What's Not Included

Extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Drinks and beverages
Tips for guides, drivers, and staff
Personal expenses and souvenirs

What to bring

Light, breathable clothes (linen/cotton)
Long sleeves/pants (for sun or mosquito protection)
Swimsuits (at least 2 recommended)
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
Flip-flops/water shoes (for boat & beach activities)
Light jacket or sweater (evenings may be breezy)
Hat or cap (essential for sun protection)
Sunscreen (high SPF)
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Personal toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, etc.)
Quick-dry towel
Wet wipes or hand sanitiser
Snorkelling gear (mask, snorkel - optional, some provided)
Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Power bank or portable charger
Camera or action cam
Small backpack or day bag
ID or passport (for check-ins)
Health insurance or travel documents (if required)
Cash (small bills - not all areas accept cards)
Personal medication

Know before you go

Departures start between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM depending on your city.
A good night's sleep and punctuality are essential to stay on schedule.
The Sfax-Kerkennah ferry takes about 1.5 hours.
Sea conditions are usually calm, but travellers prone to motion sickness may want to bring medication.
Kerkennah and El Biben are peaceful, low-tourism areas with preserved natural and cultural environments.
Expect simple, charming accommodations, not luxury hotels.
El Biben accommodations may include eco-lodges or comfort camps with limited Wi‑Fi and electricity in some cases.
This is part of the off-grid, immersive experience.
Meals feature local, seasonal ingredients, mainly seafood such as octopus, fish, and shellfish.
Inform the organiser in advance about dietary restrictions or allergies.
The fishing experience is interactive and optional - you can observe or participate.
Comfortable, washable clothing is ideal for this activity.
Expect strong sun and warm temperatures, especially in summer.
Bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Most locals speak Tunisian Arabic. Your guide or host may speak French or basic English.
A few simple phrases or translation apps can enhance the experience.
Mobile signal may be weak in remote areas.
Use this trip as a chance to disconnect and unwind.