Things To Do
in Kasserine
Kasserine is an inland town in western Tunisia, set in a valley at the foothills of rugged mountains. It sits at a historical crossroads where Berber heritage blends with Arab and Ottoman influences, evident in its markets, mosques, and traditional crafts. The surrounding countryside offers dramatic scenery—from terraced hillsides to pine-clad ridges—making it a gateway for outdoor exploration.
Visitors can expect warm hospitality, a slower pace, and authentic experiences away from Tunisia’s coastal hotspots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin the day with a guided tour of the impressive Roman forum at Sbeitla, marveling at its well-preserved columns and arches under the soft morning light. Your guide will share stories of ancient daily life, trade routes, and the significance of each monument. Capture golden hour photographs and feel transported back to the 3rd century AD as the site awakens.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grassy slopes overlooking the ruins before exploring the adjacent temples dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. Wander through the basilica and baths, appreciating the intricate mosaics that once adorned the floors. Local archeologists might be on hand to discuss recent discoveries and ongoing conservation efforts.
Return to Kasserine city for a sunset stroll through the old medina’s narrow alleys, where ceramic shops and spice sellers come alive with color and chatter. Dine at a family-run restaurant serving mechouia salad and lamb couscous, savoring each authentic bite. End the night with mint tea in a quaint café, listening to locals share legends of the area.
Set out early for a journey to the Makthar oasis, framed by palm groves and sandstone hills. Walk among date palms and olive trees while learning about traditional irrigation methods still used by local farmers. Spot migratory birds and discover hidden freshwater springs that sustain this verdant enclave.
Enjoy a homemade lunch under a shaded pergola, featuring freshly baked khobz and olives cured in aromatic oils. Take a guided bike ride along dusty trails, passing abandoned ksars (fortified villages) and quaint Berber hamlets. Meet with a local family to witness the art of basket weaving and pottery making.
As dusk falls, gather around a glowing bonfire by the oasis, sipping sweet almond tea and sampling honey-drenched pastries. Listen to a master storyteller recount myths of desert spirits and ancient caravans. Sleep in a comfortable eco-lodge where the night sky is studded with stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.30-0.70 |
| 🚇Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich inland scenery with mountain viewpoints
- Friendly hospitality and authentic rural culture
- Affordable costs and straightforward travel logistics
- Easy access to Berber heritage and traditional crafts
- Limited nightlife and fewer cosmopolitan amenities
- Rural transport can be less frequent outside towns
- Hot summers can be intense inland; plan outdoor activities accordingly
- Some services and English proficiency may be limited outside the main towns
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam thaman hada?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Kasserine
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views across the mountain range and valley floor, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful stalls, bustling lanes, and traditional storefronts offering texture-rich street photography opportunities.
Winding stairways and whitewashed walls provide intimate shots of daily life and architectural character.
Terraced fields and rural landscapes that capture the harmony between agriculture and the surrounding hills.
Food in Kasserine
Kasserine Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A chickpea-based soup served over day-old bread with cumin, garlic, and harissa; popular for breakfast or a light lunch in markets and local cafes.
Must-Try!
A classic North African staple featuring fluffy couscous with a mix of vegetables and a flavorful broth; commonly enjoyed in family-style meals at homes and traditional restaurants.
A hearty vegetable and olive oil tajine slow-cooked with regional herbs, often found in local eateries and family kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample fresh produce, olives, bread, harissa, and street snacks; best for observing daily life and picking up picnic ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). Dress modestly, especially in religious sites and rural areas. Use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Kasserine
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest but appreciated for good service. Round up in cafes, leave a few dinars for guides, and tip hotel staff when service is satisfactory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and cooler evenings, especially in the mountains. Hydration is essential; seek shade in markets and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures with harvest season in many rural areas. Great for hiking and photography with golden light.
Mild to cool, with occasional rain and cooler nights. Bring a warm layer for valley visits and possible dips into higher elevations where it can be chilly.
Green landscapes and blooming flora; ideal for outdoor activities, markets, and village visits with comfortable temperatures.
Kasserine at Night
Hiking in Kasserine
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails offering sweeping valley views, forested slopes, and opportunities to spot wildlife and native flora.
Rugged gorge routes with scenic rock formations and riverine scenery, suitable for intermediate hikers.
Low-cost day hikes along terraced fields and rural roads, ideal for photography and village interaction.
Airports
How to reach Kasserine by plane.
The main international gateway to Tunisia, about a several-hour drive from Kasserine; offers flights to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. From the airport, you can hire a car or take a domestic connection to reach western regions.
A regional international airport with connections to Europe and some inland routes; useful if you’re combining a coastal leg with a inland visit to Kasserine.
Another regional option in the southeast; may be convenient for a broader Tunisia itinerary and then driving west to Kasserine.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong presence of farming households and village communities, with traditions passed through generations.
A growing number of college-educated youths seeking regional opportunities and cultural activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and informal matches happening in towns and schools.
Common in schools and community centers, with local leagues and friendly pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasserine.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes feature vegetables and legumes; look for salads, lentil soups, and bread-based meals. When dining out, ask for dishes without meat or dairy and request olive oil and chili-based sauces on the side.