About This Park
Bouhedma National Park lies in central Tunisia, between the governorates of Gafsa and Sidi Bouzid. It is located 85 km east of Gafsa and 105 km west of Sfax. The park covers 16,448 hectares, making it the second-largest national park in Tunisia . It sits within the Orbata-Bou Hedma mountain range of the Saharan Atlas. UNESCO recognized it as a Biosphere Reserve in 1977 .
Bouhedma National Park, unique savanna, wildlife, and heritage
The park protects the last remnant of an ancient pre-Saharan savanna in North Africa . Its vegetation is dominated by the Acacia raddiana, a tree species forming a pseudo-savanna landscape unique in Tunisia . The park hosts 485 plant species, including 8 species recognized as first-priority for protection in Tunisia. These include Acacia raddiana, Juniperus phoenicea, Pistacia atlantica, and the Tunisian endemic Thymelaea sempervirens .
Bouhedma National Park is a refuge for several endangered species. Reintroduced mammals include the scimitar oryx (extinct in the wild), addax (critically endangered), dama gazelle, Barbary sheep, and dorcas gazelle . The park also shelters red-necked ostriches, striped hyenas, and golden jackals. Among reptiles, visitors can find Greek tortoises, common chameleons, desert monitors, cobras, and horned vipers . Birdwatchers may spot Bonelli’s eagles, golden eagles, eagle owls, and Numidian guineafowl. The park also offers an ecomuseum, visitor accommodation, and guided tours. It was proposed for UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2008 .
Bouhedma National Park in Photos
Where to Find Bouhedma National Park
Discover in Video
Frequently Asked Questions
Bouhedma is home to the last remnant of pre-Saharan savanna in North Africa, an ecosystem dominated by the iconic Acacia raddiana (umbrella thorn acacia) that once extended across the entire Saharan fringe. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977 and is the second largest national park in Tunisia at 16,448 hectares.
Bouhedma hosts a successful reintroduction programme for Saharan antelopes and gazelles that were regionally extinct. The park now has populations of scimitar-horned oryx (extinct in the wild globally until reintroductions), addax, dama gazelle (critically endangered), and Barbary sheep (aoudad), all protected within the park's enclosed zone.
Bouhedma is located between Gafsa and Sidi Bouzid in central Tunisia, about 380 km southwest of Tunis. The nearest town is Maknassy. A 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended as tracks within the park are rough. Guided excursions can be arranged locally.
Bouhedma is important for dry-country birds including the endangered houbara bustard, various eagle species, Pharaoh eagle-owl, and numerous larks and wheatears adapted to arid environments. The diversity of bird life reflects the transitional position between Mediterranean and Saharan zones.
Spring (March to May) is the optimal season - temperatures are moderate, resident wildlife is active, and migratory birds pass through. Summer temperatures can exceed 45°C and are not suitable for visiting. Autumn is also pleasant.
Yes. Walking or driving through the park reveals stands of the magnificent umbrella acacias, some of which are centuries old. Their presence in this remnant savanna landscape is a powerful reminder of what North Africa's pre-Saharan vegetation looked like before widespread overgrazing and climate change.
