Things To Do
in Metlaoui
Metlaoui is a small town located in southern Tunisia known for its picturesque landscape and natural beauty. The town is famous for its majestic Red Lizard Train, offering tourists a unique and scenic journey through the rugged Selja Gorges. Metlaoui is also home to the stunning Chebika Oasis, a tranquil desert oasis surrounded by palm trees and mountainous terrain.
Visitors can explore the town's traditional market, where they can shop for locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.
- "Sabah el khir" - Good morning
- "Chukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Afek" - Excuse me
- "Bikhir, shukran" - I’m fine, thank you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Metlaoui Oasis, known for its lush palm trees and tranquil atmosphere. Take a morning walk and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
In the afternoon, explore the local markets where you can find traditional crafts and delicious street food. Engage with locals to learn more about their culture and lifestyle.
End your day with a sunset view from the nearby hills, offering breathtaking panoramas of the oasis below. Consider dining at a local restaurant to savor authentic Tunisian cuisine.
Catch the historic train ride from Metlaoui to the picturesque town of Redeyef. Enjoy the stunning views as you travel through the mountains and valleys.
Once in Redeyef, visit the local museum to explore the region's mining history. Enjoy lunch at a local café while soaking in the town's unique atmosphere.
Head back to Metlaoui in the evening and relax at your accommodation. Consider taking a stroll in the cool night air to unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Strategic location for mining and industry.
- Access to natural resources, particularly phosphate.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Tunisia.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services.
- Fewer educational and recreational opportunities for youth.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some areas.
- Economic dependency on mining, leading to market vulnerabilities.
- Potential environmental concerns related to mining activities.
Best Activities in Metlaoui
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a unique experience by exploring the beautiful desert landscape on the back of a camel.
Hike or take a guided tour through the striking Selja Gorges, known for their dramatic rock formations and picturesque scenery.
Embark on an off-road excursion to discover the rugged beauty of the Atlas Mountains, a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Metlaoui with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Metlaoui
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Oung Jmel mountain.
Scenic train ride that provides picturesque views of the desert landscapes and local villages.
Food in Metlaoui
Metlaoui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made with eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and olive oil, often seasoned with harissa, giving it a spicy kick. Found in local eateries and street food stalls around Metlaoui.
Must-Try!
A crispy pastry filled with whole egg, parsley, onions, and capers, deep-fried to perfection. Look for this savory treat in traditional cafes and family-owned restaurants.
A staple of Tunisian cuisine, couscous is served with a variety of meat or vegetable stews. Enjoy this hearty dish at local restaurants and households, especially on Fridays, the traditional couscous day.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Metlaoui better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling Metlaoui Souk to explore an array of fresh local produce, aromatic spices, and traditional ingredients. Try street food such as grilled lamb skewers, falafel, and Tunisian sandwiches while wandering through the vibrant market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Metlaoui, Tunisia, it is important to greet people with a handshake, although you may find that some women prefer a nod or smile as opposed to physical contact.
It is important to be respectful of Islamic customs in Metlaoui, such as dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and during the month of Ramadan.
Hospitality is highly valued in Metlaoui, and it is customary to accept offers of food and drink when visiting someone's home, as it is seen as a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Metlaoui with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Metlaoui
Ensure a smooth experience
In Metlaoui, Tunisia, it is customary to tip around 5-10% in restaurants and cafes if a service charge is not already included in the bill. Tipping is also common for hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers.
Payment in Metlaoui, Tunisia is primarily done in cash, although some establishments may accept credit cards. It's always good to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Metlaoui.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Metlaoui, as the weather is mild and pleasant. The surrounding landscapes are lush and green, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the canyons.
Summer in Metlaoui can be hot and dry, with temperatures reaching high levels. However, it's a good time for adventure seekers to explore the desert and take part in activities like desert safaris and camel treks.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and is another ideal time to visit Metlaoui. The scenery becomes more colorful as the leaves change, making it a picturesque time for exploration and enjoying outdoor activities.
Winter in Metlaoui can be cold, especially at night, but it's a great time for those who enjoy cooler weather and want to experience a more authentic local lifestyle. The nearby mountains also offer opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
Metlaoui at Night
Hiking in Metlaoui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large salt flat located southwest of Metlaoui, offering scenic views and unique hiking opportunities in the surrounding areas.
A picturesque village near Metlaoui, known for its stunning canyons and waterfalls, providing excellent hiking trails through the beautiful Berber landscape.
These gorges offer dramatic landscapes and challenging hikes, with paths that allow for exploration of the natural beauty and rugged terrain.
A hidden gem surrounded by mountains, Chebika features trails that lead through palm groves and provide spectacular views of the oasis.
A historical site that also serves as a hiking location, the dolmens are surrounded by desert landscapes ideal for exploration and trekking.
Aiports
How to reach Metlaoui by plane.
Located approximately 250 km from Metlaoui, this is the main international airport serving the capital city of Tunisia, Tunis.
Situated around 350 km from Metlaoui, this airport serves the island of Djerba and is a popular destination for tourists.
Located about 215 km from Metlaoui, this airport serves the Monastir area and is a hub for several low-cost airlines.
Approximately 200 km from Metlaoui, this airport provides access to the coastal resort areas of Hammamet and Sousse.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Metlaoui, primarily identifying as Arab with a rich cultural heritage.
A minority group in Metlaoui, historically present in Tunisia, contributing to the region's diverse cultural fabric.
Includes small groups of various ethnic backgrounds residing in Metlaoui, contributing to its multicultural community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Metlaoui, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball is a growing sport in Metlaoui, with youth programs and local competitions gaining popularity.
Handball is actively played in schools and local clubs, contributing to its popularity in the region.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively, especially among youth in the area.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular among the youth, with local competitions encouraging participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metlaoui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tunisian cuisine traditionally features meat-based dishes, most restaurants in Metlaoui offer delicious vegetarian options like couscous with vegetables, hearty salads, and savory pastries. To find vegan options, communicate your preferences clearly, and chefs are often accommodating.
Many Tunisian dishes are naturally gluten-free, including grilled meats, vegetable tagines, and seafood. However, it's important to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience. Local eateries are generally willing to customize dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements.