Ichkeul National Park, National park in Tinja, Tunisia
Ichkeul National Park is a nature reserve in northern Tunisia encompassing an 8,500-hectare lake, a 1,360-hectare mountain, and 2,740 hectares of wetlands. The grounds feature multiple walking paths through natural areas, with a visitor center at the entrance that includes a restaurant, shop, laboratories, and offices.
The site received UNESCO World Heritage status in 1980, marking its role as the last major freshwater lake in a chain that once extended across North Africa. This designation underscored the importance of preserving this landscape as the final remnant of a larger freshwater system that once shaped the region.
The protected area serves as a crucial winter stopover for over 200,000 migratory waterfowl from Europe and Africa, including ducks, geese, storks, and flamingos. Visitors can observe these bird species especially during the colder months when they gather here for food and rest.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months when birdwatching is most productive and conditions are more pleasant. Bring binoculars and allow time for exploration, as the varied landscapes offer different perspectives and viewing points.
The lake's water changes seasonally in both salinity and water level, with fresh water from six rivers in winter and increased saltiness from Mediterranean influx in summer. These natural fluctuations create varying conditions that attract different bird species at different times.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
