Nestled in the rugged mountains of northwestern Tunisia, El Feija National Park is a breathtaking bastion of biodiversity and natural beauty. This protected area is not only a critical sanctuary for endangered species but also a landscape of profound aesthetic appeal, characterized by ancient oak forests, babbling brooks, and dramatic rock formations. In recognition of its outstanding universal value, the Tunisian government proposed El Feija for UNESCO World Heritage status on May 28, 2008, and it currently awaits classification, standing as a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

General Information at a Glance

• Superficie: The park covers a total area of 2,632 hectares (26.32 square kilometres), with a fenced integral protection zone of 417 hectares dedicated to the Barbary deer.
• Establishment: The park's core was established as a reserve in 1961. The official national park was delimited and developed starting in June 1990.
• Location: It is located in the Kroumirie region, about 200 kilometers west of Tunis, near the Algerian border. It is approximately 17 km northwest of Ghardimaou city and 49 km west of Jendouba.
• Travel Time: The capital city of Tunis is an easy three-hour drive away. It is also possible to take a train to the town of Ghardimaou and then a short taxi ride to the park entrance.
• Climate: Mediterranean climate with rainy winters, including snow at higher altitudes. Summers can be very hot, with Saharan winds elevating temperatures to up to 45°C.
• Key Feature: The park is the wettest region in Tunisia, with annual rainfall reaching 1200-2000 mm.

A Sanctuary for Remarkable Fauna

El Feija is a haven for wildlife, housing an impressive 25 species of mammals, about 70 species of birds, and 21 species of reptiles. The undisputed emblem of the park is the Barbary deer (Cervus elaphus barbarus), the largest herbivore in Tunisia. This majestic creature, which was rescued from the brink of extinction in the 1960s, now thrives here with a population in the thousands. Visitors might spot these grayish, white-spotted deer in clearings early in the morning or at sunset, especially during the August-September "slab" (mating season), when males emit loud calls and engage in fierce battles.

The park's dense forests are also home to:

• Other Major Mammals: The African golden wolf, the Barbary boar (which plays a key role in forest regeneration), red fox, serval, genet, European weasel, porcupine, and hare.
• A Rich Avian Population: Birdwatchers can delight in spotting Levaillant’s Woodpecker, the Eurasian Jay, bee-eaters, flycatchers, blackbirds, booted eagles, and various nocturnal raptors like owls.
• Reptiles and Insects: The park hosts a variety of reptiles, including the chameleon and the horseshoe whip snake, as well as a multitude of insects, some extremely rare and specific to the oak forest.

A Flourishing and Diverse Flora

From a botanical perspective, El Feija ranks first nationally in floral richness. The landscape is dominated by a magnificent ancient forest, considered one of the best Zen oak (Quercus canariensis) forests in all of North Africa. This "zenaie" is mixed with extensive stands of cork oak, creating a majestic canopy.

The forest floor is a treasure trove of biodiversity, featuring:

• A variety of ferns, cyclamen endemic to North Africa, fragrant violets, and orchids.
• Aromatic and medicinal plants such as lavender, myrtle, and heather.
• Over 700 plant species in total, thriving thanks to the region's high rainfall and diverse topography.

Suggested Itinerary: A Two-Day Immersion

To truly discover the hidden treasures of the El Feija region, a two-day trip is highly recommended. Hiring a professional guide is essential to safely navigate the best trails and enrich your experience with local knowledge.

• Day 1: Hiking in Ain Soltane
  Begin your trip at the camping and vacation center in Ain Soltane. The staff are very welcoming and can provide helpful information. From there, embark on a guided hike in the Mount Statir area through stunning cork oak forests. Enjoy a picnic lunch before descending to the small village of "El Mrouje." This 15-kilometer trek is a rewarding journey for hiking enthusiasts. Head back to the center in Ain Soltane for the evening.
• Day 2: Exploring El Feija National Park.
  After a traditional breakfast, head to the park. Visit the eco-museum for context, then follow the trails to observe the Barbary deer. Hike up Kef Nakcha for a breathtaking panoramic view from its summit. Enjoy a picnic in one of the designated spots before concluding your visit.

Extending Your Trip: Jendouba Governorate offers remarkable historical sites. You can visit the Archaeological Museum of Chimtou (1 hour away from El Feija), famed for its Numidian and Roman ruins, followed by the incredible underground Roman villas at Bulla Regia (30 minutes from Chimtou). For a scenic coastal finish, drive north to the beautiful towns of Ain Draham and Tabarka.

The Importance of Hiring a Guide

To unlock the full secrets of El Feija, hiring a knowledgeable guide is strongly suggested. Professional guides lead organized birding and photographic tours, helping you spot elusive wildlife like the golden jackal, serval, and rare birds. They provide invaluable context about the ecosystem and ensure you discover the most breathtaking landscapes and the best spots for that perfect photograph of a Barbary deer in its natural habitat.

Tips for Respecting the Environment and Animals

As a protected area and a future UNESCO World Heritage candidate, it is crucial to visit El Feija responsibly.

• Stay on Designated Trails: This minimizes erosion and protects fragile plant life.
• Observe Wildlife from a Distance: Do not approach or feed the animals, especially during sensitive periods like the deer mating season.
• Carry Out All Trash: Leave no trace of your visit.
• Respect the Silence: Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing the wildlife and to enhance the experience for other visitors.
• Follow Park Regulations: Adhere to all rules set by the park administration, including those regarding camping and fires.

Important New Regulations for Visitors (Updated October 2025)

Please be advised that the Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fishing has implemented new mandatory procedures for visiting national parks, including El Feija National Park. These stricter controls were introduced following a recent incident where authorities discovered visitors illegally hunting a highly protected and endangered species.

• Prior Authorization Required: All visitors must obtain prior approval from the regional agricultural development commissions (Mendoubiya). A request must be submitted via email to the Jendouba Regional Commission and the General Directorate of Forests 7 days before your planned visit. crda.jendouba@iresa.agrinet.tn

• Groups of 5 or More: Groups exceeding four people must be organized by a licensed travel agency, a legal organization, or an association. The application must list the group leader and the identity of all participants. (Official visits and family groups are exempt).
  

• Notify Local Authorities: After receiving the permit, the group leader is responsible for notifying the local and regional authorities of the visit date and participant list.
  

• Strict Rules On-Site: It is forbidden to camp, light fires, make excessive noise, bring in musical instruments or sound amplifiers. Visitors must preserve the cleanliness of the area and take all their waste with them.
  

• Follow Instructions: You must follow the instructions of the park rangers and stay only in the areas where access is permitted.
  

• Fees & Penalties: The administration reserves the right to refuse applications based on the park's capacity and may institute entry fees. Violating these rules can lead to legal prosecution and a ban from visiting protected areas in the future.
  
  

Conclusion

El Feija National Park is a jewel in Tunisia's ecological crown—a magical, emerald-green sanctuary where ancient forests whisper tales of survival and renewal. From the triumphant story of the Barbary deer to the awe-inspiring views from Kef Nakcha, the park offers a unique and profound connection with nature. Despite its immense value, it remains a somewhat undiscovered treasure. A visit to El Feija is not just a trip into the Tunisian wilderness; it is an active participation in the preservation of a fragile and irreplaceable ecosystem awaiting global recognition.