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Kerkenna Islands

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Island
—°5
Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)

Weather…

The Kerkenna Islands are an archipelago located in the Gulf of Gabès, about 20 kilometers off the coast of Sfax. The two main islands, Chergui and Gharbi, are connected by a causeway dating back to Roman times. The islands are characterized by their flat topography and arid climate, which historically turned the inhabitants into expert fishermen and sailors. A unique cultural feature is the 'Charfia' fishing method, a labyrinthine system of palm fronds placed in shallow waters to trap fish, which is recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Historically, the islands frequently served as a place of exile, most notably for Hannibal after the Battle of Zama and later for the Tunisian leader Habib Bourguiba. The landscape is defined by sparse vegetation, primarily salt-tolerant palms and fig trees. Despite their proximity to the industrial hub of Sfax, the Kerkenna Islands have retained a tranquil and authentic atmosphere. However, the archipelago is critically threatened by rising sea levels, as its highest point is only about 13 meters above sea level.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141415172023272826242016
Rain mm252332141041632343844

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
This archipelago off the coast of Sfax is typically reached by taking a local ferry. The boat ride features a scenic transition from the mainland to the islands.
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Best season
Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for a visit. Traveling during these months avoids the intense heat of the Tunisian summer.
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Terrain & paths
The islands feature a mostly flat landscape with sandy coastal paths and gentle shores. It is very easy to walk around and explore the relaxed coastal environment.
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What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes and casual beachwear are usually all that is needed. A wide-brimmed hat and strong sunscreen are essential for the coastal sunshine.
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Parking
Vehicles are usually left in secure parking at the Sfax ferry terminal. Alternatively, some visitors bring cars across to park on the main island roads.
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Safety
Swimming requires typical coastal caution regarding local sea currents. It is always best to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
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Time needed
Visitors often spend a full weekend or several days to fully unwind. A day trip is possible, but staying longer allows for true island relaxation.

Geography

Coordinates
34.70000, 11.20000

Facts

  • Comprises two main inhabited islands: Chergui and Gharbi.
  • The Charfia fishing technique is a UNESCO Intangible Heritage.
  • The highest point is only 13 meters above sea level.
  • Hannibal fled to these islands in exile in 195 BC.
  • A Roman causeway connects the two largest islands.
  • The archipelago is famous for its traditional octopus fishing.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Port of SfaxPort of Sfax40 km · WExplore →
SfaxSfax40 km · WExplore →
Thyna Industrial ZoneThyna Industrial Zone44 km · WExplore →
Ashtart Offshore Oil FieldAshtart Offshore Oil Field50 km · SExplore →
ChebbaChebba60 km · NExplore →
Ad-DamazinAd-Damazin62 km · SEExplore →
El AouinetEl Aouinet67 km · NExplore →
El KhmaraEl Khmara68 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kerkenna Islands (5)

Borj LaHssar🏺 historical

The ruins of Borj LaHssar tell of an old fortification on the Kerkennah Islands.

Plage Karen Khalifa🎡 recreation

The Plage Karen Khalifa beach provides shallow waters on the pristine coast of the Kerkennah Islands.

Musée Du Patrimoine Insulaire🏛 museum

The Musée Du Patrimoine Insulaire documents the traditional island fishing and crafts of the archipelago.

Place Slim Hadhri🏺 historical

Place Slim Hadhri is a central memorial square on the Kerkennah Islands.

Résidence Club Kerkenah - amphithéâtre🎭 culture

The open-air amphitheatre of the Résidence Club Kerkenah is used for summer performances on the island.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How does one get to the Kerkenna Islands?
There is a regular ferry connection from Sfax.
Are the islands heavily developed for tourism?
No, they are very authentic and well-suited for a quiet vacation.
Are there good restaurants on the islands?
Yes, especially the fish dishes are fresh and highly recommended.
What is the best activity?
Hiking, fishing, and observing the traditional island life.
Should one rent a car?
A car is helpful, but the islands are also small enough to explore on foot.
Kerkenna Islands: where is it located?
Kerkenna Islands is located in Tunisia.
Kerkenna Islands: what is there to see?
Highlights include Borj LaHssar, Plage Karen Khalifa, Musée Du Patrimoine Insulaire.
Kerkenna Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Nov.
Kerkenna Islands: why is it worth visiting?
The Kerkenna Islands are an archipelago located in the Gulf of Gabès, about 20 kilometers off the coast of Sfax.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Sfax — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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The most important industrial and commercial center in southern Tunisia.
Chebba — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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Ad-Damazin — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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El Aouinet
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El Khmara
El Khmara is a quiet Tunisian coastal settlement in the Mahdia region, appreciated for its peaceful, natural sandy beaches.
Ar-Rusairis — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Ar-Rusairis
Ar-Rusairis is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region BN.
Bau — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Bau
Bau is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region BN.
Kurmuk — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Kurmuk
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El Djem — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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Olive groves near Sfax — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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Sfax Fishery Culture — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Sfax Fishery Culture
A center of traditional fishing, closely linked to daily life and the economy.
Port of Sfax — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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A major multipurpose port serving the industrial and commercial demands of central and southern Tunisia.
Thyna Industrial Zone — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Thyna Industrial Zone
An expansive industrial area near Sfax accommodating a diverse range of light and heavy manufacturing enterprises.
Ashtart Offshore Oil Field — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Ashtart Offshore Oil Field
One of the oldest and most productive offshore oil fields located in the Gulf of Gabes.
Er Roseires Region — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
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Agricultural region around the Roseires Dam.
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Miskar Offshore Gas Field
A major offshore natural gas production facility in the Gulf of Gabes, supplying domestic power plants.
Salacta Catacombs — Kerkenna Islands (Tunisia)
Salacta Catacombs
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