Things To Do
in Metlaoui
Metlaoui is a small desert town in southern Tunisia, perched on the edge of the Sahara within the Tataouine region. The town grew up around phosphate mining and its railway heritage, giving it an industrial past paired with warm, welcoming locals. The surrounding landscape features flat plains, low dunes, and rugged limestone plateaus that frame dramatic desert sunsets.
It serves as a quiet base for day trips to ksars, oases, and starlit skies far from the coast’s bustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the impressive caves of Metlaoui, where you can marvel at the stunning rock formations. Engage in a guided tour that takes you deep into the heart of the caves, surrounded by unique geological features. This morning adventure will set the tone for the beauty of Tunisia's natural landscapes.
After lunch at a local eatery, spend your afternoon hiking around the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Keep your camera ready as you might spot some local wildlife among the serene nature. A leisurely walk will allow you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the area.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby café to unwind while enjoying traditional Tunisian tea and pastries. Engage with locals or fellow travelers, sharing stories about the day's adventures. The atmosphere will be lively with music and chatter, representing the warmth of Tunisian hospitality.
Wake up early to visit the lush oasis just outside Metlaoui, where palm trees sway gently in the breeze. This peaceful setting is perfect for wandering, as you take in the sights and sounds of nature around you. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast picnic, surrounded by vibrant greenery.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the oasis, learning about its significance and the local flora and fauna. Expect to see farmers tending to their crops and perhaps even participate in a workshop to learn about traditional farming techniques. The experience will give you a deeper appreciation of the region's agricultural heritage.
Return to Metlaoui in the evening and stroll through the local market, where you can shop for handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Taste the delicious street food options as you walk through, sampling local flavors that tantalize your taste buds. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚗Local taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🥖Groceries and bread staple | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🧭Souvenir or market item | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich desert scenery and starry nights
- Warm, welcoming local hospitality
- Accessible day trips to ksars and oases
- Limited infrastructure and signage in English
- Heat in summer and sparse amenities outside town
- Public transportation options are fewer; car hire is often convenient
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlek" - Please
- "Besh thaman hada?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hotel?" - Where is the hotel?
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Metlaoui
Visit one of these nice places.
Endless amber dunes glow as the sun sinks, creating dramatic silhouettes and long shadows ideal for landscape photography.
Rusting relics and weathered rails tell the story of the town’s mining past with stark, industrial textures against the desert backdrop.
Mud-brick fortifications and winding lanes provide authentic architectural photography and human-interest shots.
Expansive horizons and low-contrast landscapes offer wide-angle opportunities and striking silhouettes.
Food in Metlaoui
Metlaoui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple North African dish featuring fluffy semolina grains topped with stewed vegetables and tender lamb, usually served with a light broth.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked lamb in a spiced sauce with garlic, cilantro, and preserved lemon, sometimes finished with olive oil drizzle.
Thin, pan-fried dough stuffed with onions, peppers, and herbs; a popular street-side snack.
A warming chickpea soup perfumed with cumin and harissa, often eaten with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly or daily stalls offering dates, olives, bread, cheese, vegetables, and small snacks to sample on the go.
Ripe dates and olive varieties displayed in wooden crates; perfect for a quick, authentic bite or to take home as gifts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Salam' or 'Marhaba'; handshakes are common among men, while greetings with women may be more reserved.
Modest attire is appreciated, especially for women; shoulders and knees should be covered in public spaces.
Haggling is common in markets; do so with a smile and patience, and expect offers to be negotiated.
Safety
Tipping in Metlaoui
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (around 5-10%) at restaurants and cafes is appreciated. For informal services, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely used; some places accept cards in larger towns. ATMs are more common in Tataouine than in Metlaoui itself.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with strong sun. Hydration and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days and cooler nights; possible chilly winds. Layered clothing is recommended for comfort during day trips.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming vegetation; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Gradual cooling with comfortable days; good visibility for desert scenery and stargazing at night.
Metlaoui at Night
Hiking in Metlaoui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes along dune edges and rocky plateaus with expansive desert views.
Ridgetop routes around nearby ksar villages offering cinematic desert panoramas and cultural insights.
Airports
How to reach Metlaoui by plane.
Regionally accessible airport serving the southwest; connects to Tunis and some European destinations. Useful for reaching remote Tataouine region towns by road or onward travel.
Small regional airport serving the Tataouine area; limited schedules, typically used for domestic travel and regional connections.
Major international gateway with broader flight options; often used for longer journeys that connect to the south via domestic segments.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of indigenous Berber groups and Arab communities, with a culture shaped by desert life and traditional crafts.
Residents connected to the mining heritage and related trades, many of whom participate in family-run stalls and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Tunisia, with local clubs and informal matches common in towns like Metlaoui.
Camel rides, dune treks, and off-road experiences are culturally embedded experiences rather than formal sports, but widely enjoyed by visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metlaoui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many soups, salads, and bread-based dishes can be vegetarian. Ask for cheese, egg, or vegetable-forward plates and request no meat stock if needed.