As UK travelers increasingly set their sights on North Africa, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel guidance for Tunisia, a destination growing in popularity among British holidaymakers. The latest advisory includes renewed caution against travel to certain border regions due to security concerns, even as the country sees a sharp rise in tourism from the UK.
This development arrives at a time when Tunisia is experiencing a tourism boom, particularly from the UK, thanks to its blend of Mediterranean beaches, ancient ruins, and cultural richness. Direct flights from cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham to Tunis or Monastir take just over 3 hours, making it a convenient destination for short breaks and extended holidays.
What the FCDO Recommends
The UK government now advises against all but essential travel to several areas in Tunisia, particularly those close to the borders with Algeria and Libya. The main regions under advisory include:
- A 20 km band within El Kef and Jendouba governorates near the Algerian border.
- The western part of Ghardimaou and the El Feidja National Park.
- Kasserine Governorate, especially around the town of Sbeitla and near Mount Mghila and Mount Orbata.
- Border zones extending 10 to 20 km from the Tunisia-Libya frontier, particularly south of Kasserine and around Ben Guerdane.
While Chemtou—an ancient Roman city with significant archaeological remains—was previously under caution, the FCDO has now lifted restrictions, signaling that the site is once again deemed safe for visitors.
These updates follow reports of occasional terrorist activity and security operations in some rural areas. Though no recent large-scale attacks have occurred, the FCDO stresses that conditions can change quickly and travelers should remain vigilant.
Tourism Demand Continues to Surge
Despite the warning, Tunisia remains a top choice for UK travelers in 2025. According to data from Cirium, flights from the UK to North Africa—including Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt—have doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
TUI, one of the UK’s largest travel providers, has increased capacity to Tunisia for summer 2025, responding to high demand. Travel platform Booking.com reported a 68% increase in summer holiday searches for Tunisia year-over-year.
Tunisia’s appeal lies in its affordability, history, and diverse landscapes. From the vibrant souks of Tunis to the golden sands of Hammamet, the ancient ruins of Carthage, and the desert adventures of Douz and Matmata, the country offers an immersive experience at a fraction of the cost of Southern Europe.
Why British Holidaymakers Love Tunisia
Tunisia blends sun, sea, and centuries of history into a compact, easy-to-navigate destination. Travelers can explore:
- UNESCO-listed sites such as Dougga and El Djem Coliseum
- Mediterranean resorts in Sousse, Monastir, and Djerba
- Cultural capitals like Tunis with its bustling medina and Bardo Museum
- Desert experiences including camel rides, glamping in the Sahara, and Star Wars film locations
The country’s fast-growing tourism infrastructure includes four- and five-star beachfront resorts, all-inclusive packages, and improved airport connectivity, especially via Tunis-Carthage and Enfidha–Hammamet airports.
How to Stay Safe While Visiting
Although Tunisia is generally safe for tourists, travelers should:
- Monitor the FCDO website regularly for real-time updates
- Register their trip with the British Embassy in Tunis
- Avoid border areas and regions listed under “essential travel only” advisories
- Stay in areas with high tourist traffic and established security presence
- Follow local news and guidance from Tunisian authorities
The UK government also encourages purchasing travel insurance that includes health, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation coverage.
Diplomatic Engagement and Economic Opportunities
The rise in British tourism aligns with Tunisia’s broader strategy to diversify its visitor base. The Tunisian National Tourist Office has ramped up marketing in the UK, participating in events like the World Travel Market in London and signing joint promotional agreements with UK-based travel agents.
Meanwhile, the advisory serves as a reminder that diplomacy and tourism go hand-in-hand. Increased tourism from the UK not only benefits Tunisia’s economy—already recovering from the effects of COVID-19 and regional instability—but also deepens bilateral relations.
Looking Ahead: Smart Tourism in North Africa
As travel patterns shift away from traditional European destinations toward emerging hotspots, North Africa is set to become a major competitor. Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt are rapidly upgrading their tourism services and safety protocols, aiming to capture a larger share of the European market.
Tunisia’s recent focus on “smart tourism” includes digitalization of entry points, multilingual visitor apps, and sustainability campaigns—further enhancing its appeal to modern British travelers.
Conclusion
Tunisia continues to win the hearts of UK travelers, offering a rich mix of history, hospitality, and relaxation. However, as the FCDO’s updated advisory indicates, safety remains a key priority.
British holidaymakers planning a Tunisian getaway should stay informed, respect local guidelines, and exercise caution—especially near border zones. With proper planning and awareness, Tunisia promises a culturally enriching and memorable holiday experience.
Whether you’re strolling through the ruins of Chemtou, shopping in Sidi Bou Said, or sunbathing in Djerba, Tunisia offers an unforgettable escape—just be sure to keep one eye on the travel updates as you explore.
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