In 2025, Tunisia is reclaiming its place on the tourism map, with a shift away from traditional coastal resorts. Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic and adventurous experiences. Two destinations in southern Tunisia are emerging as the star spots of the year: Tozeur and Gabès.
Tozeur, located at the gateway to the Sahara, rivals major desert destinations. Once overshadowed by northeastern resorts, it now tops the wishlist of European tourists, especially the French, seeking escape. According to the flight comparison site Ulysse, Tozeur offers a unique and authentic experience.
As one of the main oases of the Djerid region, Tozeur's popularity stems from its preservation from the crowds of Hammamet, Sousse, and Tunis. The desert landscape attracts travelers seeking 4x4 excursions through golden dunes and hidden oasis explorations. Ulysse emphasizes that Tozeur retains a unique, non-artificial soul, far from tourist complexes and crowded boulevards.
Beyond the desert, visitors can explore the medina (Ouled el Hadef quarter), the Dar Cheraït Museum, and Ras El Aïn Park, blending dunes and oasis. Gabès, the largest city in the Tunisian desert after Sfax, has also long remained in the shadow of more popular destinations. However, it is now experiencing a surge in popularity.
According to Tunisian news site Webmanagercenter, Gabès is making a splash in the top Tunisian destinations for 2025. Figures indicate a 48.7% increase in visitors and a 113.7% rise in overnight stays in April, according to Béchir Gdiri, the regional tourism commissioner. In Matmata, troglodyte dwellings are increasingly fascinating, with three guesthouses planned to accommodate 45 beds.
In Gabès, a 4-star hotel with 100 beds is under construction, and a tourist center focusing on Amazigh culture will soon open in Matmata and the fortified village of Tamezret. These developments highlight the growing appeal of southern Tunisia's unique cultural and natural attractions.