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Lake of Tunis
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Lake
The Lake of Tunis (Lac de Tunis) is a shallow natural lagoon that separates the Tunisian capital from the Gulf of Tunis. Covering an area of approximately 37 square kilometers, it is divided into northern and southern basins by an artificial channel and an ancient Roman dike. Historically, the lagoon provided access to the port of Carthage and later to medieval Tunis. Today, the lake is a designated RAMSAR wetland of international importance, serving as a wintering ground for tens of thousands of waterbirds, particularly greater flamingos. Located in the center of the lake is the small island of Chikly, which features the ruins of a 16th-century Spanish fortress and is managed as a nature reserve. Extensive environmental rehabilitation projects in the 1980s significantly improved water quality and restored the ecological balance. In recent decades, the shoreline areas have been intensively developed for modern urban projects.
- Location: Tunisia
- Top sights: Fort Santiago Chikly · Happy Land
- Nearby: Radès (8 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 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 28 | 28 | 25 | 21 | 16 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 64 | 50 | 63 | 54 | 35 | 20 | 7 | 21 | 65 | 61 | 57 | 66 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Extremely accessible as it lies directly between the capital city of Tunis and the Gulf of Tunis. The lake can be easily reached by car, taxi, or public transport such as the TGM commuter train running along its northern edge.
Best season
Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking along the promenades, while summers can be quite hot. Birdwatching for flamingos is particularly rewarding and popular during the winter months.
Terrain & paths
The terrain around the accessible parts of the lagoon is entirely flat, featuring paved walkways, urban promenades, and some reclaimed land areas. It is very easy to navigate on foot, by wheelchair, or by bicycle.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, binoculars for spotting migratory birds, and adequate sun protection are the main items needed. No specialized hiking or outdoor gear is required for this heavily urbanized lagoon setting.
Parking
Plentiful parking is available along the urban developments bordering the lake, particularly in the modern Les Berges du Lac districts, where there are both street spots and dedicated, monitored parking lots.
Safety
As an urban lake, standard city precautions apply; secure your belongings and be mindful of traffic when crossing coastal roads. The water itself is not suitable for swimming or fishing due to historical pollution.
Time needed
Visitors typically spend one to two hours strolling along the lakeside promenades, enjoying the numerous waterfront cafes, or simply observing the flocks of flamingos congregating in the distance.
Geography
Facts
- The total surface area of the Lake of Tunis is about 37 square kilometers.
- The average depth of the lagoon is only approximately one meter.
- Chikly Island, within the lake, has been a protected nature reserve since 1993.
- A 10 km long causeway separates the northern and southern basins.
- The lake regularly hosts over 10,000 greater flamingos during winter months.
- The artificial canal connecting to the port of Tunis was completed in 1893.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Lake of Tunis (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Lake of Tunis attractive for tourists?
It is more of an important natural space and ornithological area than a classic bathing beach.
Can you birdwatch there?
Yes, in winter the lake is an important place for migratory birds, including flamingos.
Can you navigate the lake?
There is limited private use, but the focus is on nature conservation.
How do you get there?
The lake is located directly between Tunis and La Goulette, it is easily accessible by train.
Is access to the lake free?
Yes, you can freely visit the shore areas in many places along the embankments.
Lake of Tunis: where is it located?
Lake of Tunis is located in Tunisia.
Lake of Tunis: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fort Santiago Chikly, Happy Land.
Lake of Tunis: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Lake of Tunis: why is it worth visiting?
The Lake of Tunis (Lac de Tunis) is a shallow natural lagoon that separates the Tunisian capital from the Gulf of Tunis.
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Nearby cities
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.
Radès
An important port and industrial town as well as the center of Tunisian sport.
La Goulette
The main port of Tunis, known for its maritime character and seafood restaurants.
Manouba
A city in the northwest of the Tunis metropolitan area, known for its university.
Carthage
A suburb of Tunis, built on the site of the ancient Phoenician city.
Hammam-Lif
A coastal town south of Tunis that formerly served as a spa resort for the Beys of Tunis.
Oued Ellil
An important suburb of Tunis with growing industry and residential areas.
Tebourba
A city northwest of Tunis with a long Roman and Andalusian history.
Korbous
A picturesque spa town on Cap Bon, famous for its hot sulfur springs that flow directly into the sea.
Ghar el Melh
A picturesque coastal town with imposing Ottoman forts and a unique saltwater lagoon.
Zaghouan
Known for its Andalusian architecture and as the starting point of a Roman aqueduct.
History & landmarks
Clock Tower of Tunis
This iconic steel structure in the January 14 Square is a symbol of modern Tunis and a central meeting point.
Dar Hussein
One of the most magnificent palaces in the medina of Tunis, which served as a residence for princes, governors, and ministers.
Bab Saadoun
One of the historical city gates of Tunis with distinctive triple arches that once guarded access to the medina.
Radès Olympic Stadium
The largest stadium in Tunisia hosts major football matches and athletics competitions.
Nature
More places
Tunis Children's Park
A popular urban recreation area for kids with playgrounds and green spaces.
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Gammarth Adventure Park
A modern leisure park with many interactive elements for kids and youth.
Sidi Bou Said Botanical Garden
A peaceful garden featuring native plants, offering an educational look at the local flora.
Gulf of Tunis
A gulf in the Mediterranean.
Bardo National Museum
A historic palace that today houses the world's largest collection of Roman mosaics, as well as Punic and Islamic artifacts.
Port of Rades
The main commercial port in Tunisia, handling the majority of the container traffic of the country.
Mghira Industrial Zone
A modern industrial park specializing in aeronautical component manufacturing and automotive parts.
Djebel Bou Kornine
A prominent mountain near the Bay of Tunis.