Metlaoui is a small town located in the Gafsa Governorate of Tunisia. Situated in the southwestern part of the country, it is known for its…
Best for you if…
Metlaoui is a strong pick for historical sites & desert exploration — plan about 5 days. Peak season: Summer.
Solid guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 66/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈7.1 km span)
High season: Summer
Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · November · December
20°C - 30°C
15°C - 25°C
25°C - 40°C
10°C - 20°C
Metlaoui is a charming town located in the Gafsa Governorate of Tunisia. It is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and the famous Red Lizard Train. If you are planning a visit to this hidden gem, here are some ways to reach Metlaoui:
The nearest international airport to Metlaoui is the Tunis-Carthage International Airport, located in the capital city of Tunis. From there, you can take a domestic flight to the Gafsa-Ksar International Airport, which is approximately 40 kilometers away from Metlaoui. Once you reach Gafsa, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Metlaoui.
Metlaoui is well-connected by train services. You can take a train from Tunis to Gafsa, which is the closest major city to Metlaoui. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, but the scenic views along the way make it worth it. From Gafsa, you can either hire a taxi or take a local train to reach Metlaoui.
If you prefer to travel by road, you can drive to Metlaoui from various cities in Tunisia. From Tunis, you can take the A1 highway towards Gafsa and then follow the signs to Metlaoui. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
There are regular bus services available from Tunis and other major cities to Gafsa. Once you reach Gafsa, you can easily find buses or shared taxis that will take you to Metlaoui. The bus journey from Tunis to Gafsa takes around 6-7 hours, so it's advisable to book a comfortable seat in advance.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, reaching Metlaoui is an adventure in itself. The journey offers glimpses of Tunisia's diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to desert vistas. Once you arrive in Metlaoui, you can explore the town's historical sites, take a ride on the Red Lizard Train, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of this picturesque destination.
Metlaoui is a small town located in the Gafsa Governorate of Tunisia. Situated in the southwestern part of the country, it is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and unique attractions. The town is nestled in the Atlas Mountains and is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including rocky desert terrain, lush palm groves, and towering cliffs.
One of the main highlights of Metlaoui is the Red Lizard Train, also known as Lezard Rouge. This historic train takes visitors on a scenic journey through the picturesque Selja Gorges. The train ride offers breathtaking views of the rugged mountains, deep canyons, and verdant oases. It is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
In addition to its natural wonders, Metlaoui is also home to the Mining Museum. This unique museum showcases the region's mining heritage and provides insights into the history of phosphate mining in Tunisia. Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn about the mining techniques, equipment, and the impact of mining on the local economy.
Another notable landmark in Metlaoui is the Oasis Palace. This former residence of the local governor is now a hotel and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The Oasis Palace offers a glimpse into the town's past and provides a tranquil oasis for visitors to relax and unwind.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
6 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~0.2 km · 2 places
~1.3 km · 2 places
~0.2 km · 2 places
~3.8 km · 4 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~78.4 km path
~1.3 km path
~0.2 km path
Listings update over time — confirm availability before you book.
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 5 days in Metlaoui, Tunisia.
High season is typically Summer.
Travelers often find better value in January, February, November, December.
Metlaoui suits Historical Sites, Desert Exploration, Nature Hikes.
A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.
Pack sunscreen and a hat
Add Metlaoui and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.
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