Climate and monthly weather forecast
Tunisia

Tunisia, located in North Africa, sits along the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east. The country encompasses diverse geographical features, including the northernmost point of Africa, Cape Angela. Tunisia boasts a varied topography of coastal plains, fertile valleys, mountainous regions, and the arid Sahara desert in the south. This diversity shapes the country's complex climate, which ranges from a hot desert climate (BWh) and hot semi-arid climate (BSh) in the interior and southern regions to a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Csa) along the northern coast.

Throughout the year, Tunisia experiences varied weather conditions, predominantly shaped by two main seasons: a mild, rainy winter from November to January, and a hot, dry summer from May to September. During winter, temperatures in coastal regions range from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), while the desert regions can drop as low as 5°C (41°F). In contrast, summer temperatures regularly rise above 30°C (86°F) along the coast and can soar to 45°C (113°F) in the interior and desert regions. Rainfall patterns also differ considerably, with most precipitation falling during the winter months and minimal rainfall occurring in summer. Coastal areas receive between 400mm (15.75") to 600mm (23.62") of annual rainfall, while the desert regions receive less than 100mm (3.94").

The optimal time to visit Tunisia largely depends on the desired activities and destinations within the country. Generally, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are considered the most favourable times. During these periods, temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F) along the coast and in the interior, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing, exploring archaeological sites, and enjoying beach activities. Moreover, spring sees the countryside bloom with wildflowers, enhancing the beauty of Tunisian landscapes.

The peak of summer (July and August) is often considered the least favourable time to visit Tunisia, especially for those sensitive to high temperatures. During these months, temperatures can surpass 40°C (104°F) in the southern and interior regions, making outdoor activities challenging. Moreover, the lack of precipitation coupled with intense heat can lead to dusty and arid conditions. Coastal areas, while cooler, can still reach high temperatures of 30°C (86°F) to 35°C (95°F) and are often crowded with tourists during this season.

In Tunisia, spring is a season of moderate temperatures and blooming landscapes. From March to June, temperatures gradually rise from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) along the coast and from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) in the interior. Rainfall decreases significantly compared to the winter months, resulting in drier conditions. This period, characterised by a mild climate and reduced tourist crowds, is perfect for exploring Tunisia's rich historical sites and picturesque coastal towns.

Summers in Tunisia, from June to September, are typically hot and dry. In coastal regions, temperatures fluctuate between 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F), while the interior and southern regions experience extremes from 35°C (95°F) to 45°C (113°F). Precipitation is scarce, contributing to the arid conditions typical of the summer months. Despite the high temperatures, the coastal regions draw tourists seeking sun-drenched beaches, with Mediterranean waters providing a refreshing escape from the heat.

Autumn in Tunisia, from September to November, mirrors the comfortable climate of the spring season. Temperatures during this period decline gradually, ranging from 30°C (86°F) in September to 15°C (59°F) by November. Rainfall begins to increase towards the end of autumn, particularly in the northern and coastal regions. As with spring, the mild and relatively dry climate makes this an excellent time for outdoor exploration and cultural tourism.

Winter in Tunisia spans from December to February, characterised by cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. Along the coast, temperatures oscillate from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), while the desert and interior regions can drop to a chilly 5°C (41°F). Coastal areas receive the majority of their annual precipitation during this season, with totals reaching up to 200mm (7.87") per month. Despite cooler temperatures and rainy days, winter offers a unique perspective of Tunisia, with snow-capped peaks in the Atlas Mountains and fewer tourists across popular sites.

January is the coldest month in Tunisia, with temperatures contrasting noticeably between the coastal areas and the desert regions. Coastal cities, such as Tunis and Sousse, experience average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F). Weather in January »

February in Tunisia brings a slight increase in temperatures compared to January, but still remains within the winter season. In the coastal cities, such as Tunis and Sousse, the temperatures start to rise marginally, with averages ranging from 12°C (53.6°F) to 16°C (60.8°F). Weather in February »

In Tunisia, March signifies the transition from winter to spring, with temperatures rising and rainfall decreasing across the country. Coastal cities such as Tunis and Sousse experience average temperatures ranging from 12°C (53.6°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Weather in March »

April ushers in a more pronounced spring climate across Tunisia. In coastal cities such as Tunis and Sousse, the climate becomes noticeably warmer with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F). Rainfall continues to decrease, with an average of 30mm (1.18") to 40mm (1.57"), a substantial reduction compared to the preceding winter months. Moving towards the interior and southern regions, including towns like Tataouine and Douz in the Sahara, temperatures rise significantly, averaging between 17°C (62.6°F) and 27°C (80.6°F). Weather in April »

May in Tunisia marks the transition from spring to the early onset of summer, with rapidly rising temperatures and a further decrease in rainfall. Coastal cities such as Tunis and Sousse experience average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 23°C (73.4°F), offering warm yet comfortable conditions for beach activities. Weather in May »

June signals the commencement of the hot summer season in Tunisia. In the coastal cities of Tunis and Sousse, temperatures range from 22°C (71.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). The Mediterranean Sea provides a cooling influence, tempering the summer heat to some extent. Weather in June »

July is the peak of the hot summer season in Tunisia. Coastal cities, such as Tunis and Sousse, experience high temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The cooling influence of the Mediterranean Sea remains, offering some relief from the intense heat. Weather in July »

August in Tunisia maintains the high temperatures characteristic of the summer season. In coastal cities like Tunis and Sousse, temperatures hover between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F). The Mediterranean Sea continues to exert a cooling influence, offering a respite from the inland heat. Weather in August »

September in Tunisia marks the beginning of the transition from summer to autumn, with temperatures starting to decline across the country. In coastal cities such as Tunis and Sousse, temperatures range from 22°C (71.6°F) to 27°C (80.6°F). Weather in September »

October in Tunisia sees a more pronounced transition into autumn, with further declines in temperature and increases in rainfall. Coastal cities such as Tunis and Sousse experience temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). Weather in October »

November in Tunisia brings further progression into the autumn season, with temperatures continuing to drop and precipitation increasing. Coastal cities such as Tunis and Sousse experience temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F). Weather in November »

December in Tunisia marks the onset of the winter season, characterized by a further drop in temperatures and increased precipitation. Coastal cities like Tunis and Sousse experience average temperatures ranging from 12°C (53.6°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). Weather in December »