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Zembra Islands
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The Zembra Islands, consisting of the main island of Zembra and the smaller Zembretta, are strategically located at the entrance to the Gulf of Tunis. Zembra, known as Aegimurus by the Romans, features rugged cliffs that rise to an elevation of 435 meters. Since 1977, the islands have been protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a national park to safeguard one of the most significant bird habitats in the Mediterranean. Of particular importance is the colony of Cory's shearwaters, with over 140,000 pairs nesting there annually. The vegetation is typically Mediterranean, featuring mastic trees, strawberry trees, and wild olives. Beneath the waves, the marine protected area is home to exceptional underwater flora and fauna, including rare corals and seagrass meadows. Historically, the islands served as military outposts and quarantine stations. Visitor access is strictly regulated to protect the sensitive ecosystem.
- Location: Tunisia
- Nearby: Korbous (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 28 | 25 | 21 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 35 | 51 | 37 | 25 | 16 | 5 | 22 | 67 | 63 | 44 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Zembra Islands are heavily protected as a national park and military zone, making public access highly restricted and strictly regulated. Authorized visitors generally travel by chartered boat from the nearby mainland port of Sidi Daoud or El Haouaria, pending official permits.
Best season
For those granted permission for scientific or ecological observation, the late spring and summer months offer the most stable sea conditions for the crossing. Winter navigation in the Gulf of Tunis can be treacherous due to high winds and unpredictable swells.
Terrain & paths
The islands feature a rugged, formidable terrain dominated by steep rocky cliffs and dense, undisturbed Mediterranean scrub vegetation. There are no paved trails or infrastructure for casual walking, requiring physically demanding navigation across uneven, rocky ground.
What to bring
Anyone authorized to land must bring robust, grippy hiking boots, thick protective clothing, and a comprehensive first aid kit. Due to the total lack of facilities, taking an ample supply of water, rations, and reliable sun protection is absolutely mandatory.
Parking
Parking is exclusively located on the mainland at the departure ports of El Haouaria or Sidi Daoud, usually near the local marina or coast guard stations. Visitors leave their vehicles securely on the mainland before embarking on the authorized boat journey.
Safety
The greatest risk is the complete isolation and challenging maritime conditions required to reach the island. Strict adherence to military regulations and nature reserve guidelines is essential, as the islands host sensitive nesting sites for various seabird species.
Time needed
If official permission is secured, a visit typically consists of a half-day or full-day excursion from the mainland, heavily dependent on sea conditions. Overnight stays are generally strictly prohibited to protect the delicate biosphere and comply with military rules.
Geography
Facts
- Zembra was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1977.
- The highest point on Zembra Island reaches 435 meters above sea level.
- More than 140,000 pairs of Cory's shearwaters nest on the islands.
- Zembra Island covers a land area of approximately 389 hectares.
- Zembretta is only about 2 hectares in size and is located east of Zembra.
- The islands are situated about 15 kilometers northwest of Cap Bon.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Zembra Islands (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How to get to the Zembra Islands?
Access is strictly regulated as it is a national park; excursions usually require a permit.
Is diving allowed there?
Diving is only allowed in designated zones and with licensed diving schools.
Why is protection important?
The islands are home to rare seabirds and intact underwater flora that must be protected.
Can you see the islands from land?
Yes, in clear weather they are easily visible from the coasts near Sidi Bou Said or El Haouaria.
Are there tourist accommodations?
No, there are no accommodations on the islands, they are uninhabited.
Zembra Islands: where is it located?
Zembra Islands is located in Tunisia.
Zembra Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Zembra Islands: why is it worth visiting?
The Zembra Islands, consisting of the main island of Zembra and the smaller Zembretta, are strategically located at the entrance to the Gulf of Tunis.
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Nearby cities
Korbous
A picturesque spa town on Cap Bon, famous for its hot sulfur springs that flow directly into the sea.
Hammam-Lif
A coastal town south of Tunis that formerly served as a spa resort for the Beys of Tunis.
Radès
An important port and industrial town as well as the center of Tunisian sport.
Ben Arous
One of the most important industrial and commercial suburban cities of Tunis.
Ariana
An important city in the Tunis metropolitan area, known for its agriculture and roses.
Dar Chaabane
A town near Nabeul known for its traditional stonemasonry.
Nabeul
The center of pottery production and a major tourist destination in Tunisia.
Korba
A small coastal town known for its beaches and agriculture on the Cap Bon peninsula.
Manouba
A city in the northwest of the Tunis metropolitan area, known for its university.
Oued Ellil
An important suburb of Tunis with growing industry and residential areas.
Menzel Temime
A city on the Cap Bon peninsula serving as a trading center for local agricultural products.
History & landmarks
Radès Olympic Stadium
The largest stadium in Tunisia hosts major football matches and athletics competitions.
Acropolium of Carthage
The former Cathedral of Saint Louis sits atop Byrsa Hill and is now used as a cultural events center.
Ennejma Ezzahra Palace
This elegant palace combines Moorish architecture with European influences and today houses a museum for Arab and Mediterranean music.
City of Culture
A vast modern cultural complex in Tunis bringing together theaters, cinemas, and art galleries.
Dar Ben Abdallah
This magnificent palace in the medina of Tunis is a masterpiece of late 18th-century Tunisian residential architecture.
Bab Saadoun
One of the historical city gates of Tunis with distinctive triple arches that once guarded access to the medina.
Nature
More places
Grombalia Viticulture
A significant wine-growing region benefiting from favorable climatic conditions.
Cap Bon Fruit Orchards
A garden paradise for citrus and other exotic fruits, favored by the marine climate.
Hammamet Fun World
A large leisure and water park tailored specifically to kids and families.
Nabeul Pottery Garden
An interactive area where kids can discover the art of traditional pottery.
Jebel Abderrahmane
A mountain range on Cap Bon.
Cap Bon
A peninsula in northeastern Tunisia.
Gulf of Hammamet
A gulf on the Tunisian coast.
Gulf of Tunis
A gulf in the Mediterranean.