Things To Do
in Ajim

Ajim is a picturesque coastal town on the island of Djerba, offering a calm, authentic Tunisian atmosphere. Its whitewashed lanes, sun-warmed harbors, and sea breezes create a relaxed backdrop for exploration. The town provides easy access to markets, mosques, and nearby beaches while serving as a gateway to the island's southern scenery.

Visitors often combine Ajim with day trips to Houmt Souk and other Jerba attractions for a varied experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Ajim
morning
:

Arrive in Ajim and check in to your seaside hotel, which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beaches and absorb the sun-drenched atmosphere. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local Tunisian pastries.

afternoon
:

Dedicate the afternoon to exploring the small fishing port and its vibrant community, where you can watch fishermen at work. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a locally favored restaurant. Afterward, visit the nearby olive groves to learn about the region's olive oil production.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Tunisian dinner at a local eatery, where you can try dishes such as couscous or brik. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, taking in the cool sea breeze. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café to sip mint tea and socialize with locals.

day 2
Day Trip to Djerba Island
morning
:

Start your day early with a ferry ride to Djerba Island, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich history. Explore the island's enchanting markets, filled with colorful textiles and handcrafted goods. Stop for a traditional breakfast at a local bakery, savoring the fresh flavors of Tunisian bread.

afternoon
:

Visit the El Ghriba Synagogue, one of the oldest in the world, followed by a tour of Houmt Souk, the island's main town, packed with artisan shops and local delicacies. Enjoy a fresh seafood meal at one of the charming seaside restaurants. Spend some time at one of the island's beaches, soaking up the sun and swimming in turquoise waters.

evening
:

Return to Ajim in the evening and freshen up at your hotel. Head out to a local lounge for dinner and enjoy traditional music performances while sampling local dishes. Wrap up your day with a relaxed walk under the starlit sky along the beach.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or tea at a cafe$1-3
🚖Short taxi ride within town$2-5
🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night$25-60
🧭Souvenir shopping (dates, pottery, spices)$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming, authentic island atmosphere with friendly locals
  • Beautiful coastline and accessible beaches
  • Affordable prices compared with many destinations
  • Good base for exploring Djerba’s markets and crafts
  • Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions in Ajim
  • Language barriers in rural spots outside tourist areas
  • Summer heat can be intense; plan outdoors accordingly
  • Some facilities may be basic outside major towns
  • "Marḥaba" - Hello
  • "Min faḍlik" - Please
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "La shukran" - No, thank you
  • "Kif halek?" - How are you?
  • "Wahed men fadlik" - One more, please

Places to Visit in Ajim

Visit one of these nice places.

Ajim Harbor at Dawn

Soft light over fishing boats and reflective water—great for early-morning portraits and seascapes.

Old Medina Walls

Whitewashed lanes and blue doors with sunlit corners perfect for moody street photography.

Gulf of Gabes Overlook

Coastal panorama with distant islands and horizon lines, ideal for wide-angle shots.

Colorful Fishing Nets at the Port

Close-ups of nets, floats, and boats provide vibrant texture and color.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ajim

Ajim and the island of Djerba celebrate seafood-forward Tunisian cuisine, with generous use of olive oil, harissa, herbs, and citrus. Fresh fish, seafood couscous, brik pastries, and market produce shape most meals, while sweet mint tea and coffee accompany many stops.

Ajim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Brik

A crispy pastry filled with egg, tuna, or vegetables, often enjoyed as a starter or snack.

Must-Try!

Seafood Couscous

Couscous loaded with fresh fish, shrimp, or squid, seasoned with spices and finished with lemon.

Grilled Fish with Harissa

Sea bass or dorade grilled and served with a tangy harissa sauce and lemon.

Ojja

Tomato, pepper, and egg stew with sizzling spices, commonly served with bread.

Lablabi

Chickpea-based flatbread soup flavored with harissa and olive oil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ajim Market

Small seaside market offering fish, seafood, olives, dates, bread, and fresh produce.

Houmt Souk Market

Larger island market with leather, pottery, spices, dates, and snack stalls; best explored in the afternoon.

Climate Guide

Weather

Djerba’s climate is Mediterranean: hot, dry summers with sea breezes and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities, while summer calls for sun protection and hydration. Rainfall is relatively scarce, mostly concentrated in the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress and Behavior

Dress modestly in public spaces, especially near religious sites. Ask before taking photos of people, and use the right hand when handing objects or eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ajim is generally safe for travelers. Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets, keep valuables secure, and use reputable taxis. Drink bottled water if the local supply is uncertain and follow local guidance during any weather or sea-related advisories.

Tipping in Ajim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants if the service charge isn’t included, a small tip (around 5-10%) is appreciated. For hotel staff or tour guides, a modest tip is customary if you’re satisfied with the service.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Pleasant temperatures, blooming shrubs, and comfortable humidity—great for walking tours and outdoor markets.

Summer

Very hot and dry; expect high daytime temperatures. Favor early mornings and late evenings; sea breezes moderate the heat, and beaches fill with visitors.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler nights; sea remains comfortable for swimming and boating; fewer crowds than peak summer.

Winter

Mild and occasionally rainy; daytime temperatures comfortable for sightseeing, though evenings can be cool.

Nightlife Guide

Ajim at Night

Ajim’s nightlife is laid-back and centered around seaside cafes and small venues. Expect mint tea, juice, and light snacks rather than large-scale clubbing. In nearby Houmt Souk, there are a few bars with live music or DJ sets, especially on weekends, offering a gentler late-evening scene compared to larger tourist hubs.

Hiking in Ajim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Footpath Ajim to Ras el-Ma

Easy coastal hike with sea views, suitable for a morning or late-afternoon ramble.

Djerba Dunes Walk

Short desert-edge trails along Jerba’s dune fields; reveals unique coastal landscapes and birdlife.

Airports

How to reach Ajim by plane.

Djerba–Zarzis International Airport (DJE)

Main international gateway to the island, located near Houmt Souk. Regular domestic and international flights; taxis or rental cars connect to Ajim.

Tunis–Carthage International Airport (TUN)

Major hub in Tunis for international connections; longer drive or domestic leg required to reach Djerba and Ajim.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ajim is compact and walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. The town center and harbor are easily explored on foot, but longer walks to beaches or outlying villages may require a short drive or taxi, especially in hot weather. Sidewalks are present in the town center, though some spots may have uneven surfaces near cafés and markets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Arab Tunisian

The dominant demographic, speaking Arabic and practicing Tunisian customs; Muslims form the majority.

Berber communities

Smaller groups associated with the island’s broader North African heritage; contribute to regional crafts and music.

Jewish community on Djerba

Historically present on the island with synagogues and a lasting cultural footprint; smaller in Ajim specifically but part of the Jerban tapestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Tunisia, widely followed and played across towns, including Jerba.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Jerba’s coastal conditions attract water sports enthusiasts, especially on windy days near beaches.

Fishing

As a coastal town, local fishing activities are common and form part of daily life and cuisine.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ajim is generally light, with most movement occurring on local roads. Taxis or rental cars are common for longer trips to Houmt Souk or beaches. In peak tourist seasons, expect more vehicle activity around markets and ferry routes; plan extra time for routes across the island during weekends or holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ajim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy salads, bean dishes, vegetable couscous, lentil soups, and flatbreads with tahini. When ordering, request oil-based sauces and avoid meat-based broths; many taverns can adapt dishes if you ask in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in Ajim and nearby towns, with more comprehensive services in Houmt Souk and Zarzis. For serious or specialized care, travel to larger hospitals on Djerba or in mainland Tunisia. Travelers should have travel insurance and carry any necessary medications; bring copies of prescriptions when needed.

Discover Tunisia

Read more in our Tunisia 2025 Travel Guide.

Tunisia Travel Guide