The town of Nefta (Nafta)

Nefta, known as the “Pearl of the Jerid”, is one of the most fascinating oasis towns in southern Tunisia. The former Roman Nepte, it now stands out for the beauty of its surroundings, its thermal springs, its deep spirituality and, above all, for its spectacular oasis, one of the largest and most impressive in the country.

The green heart of the town is La Corbeille, a majestic oasis shaped like a natural amphitheatre that is home to more than 400,000 palm trees, surrounded by rocky cliffs from which countless water springs emerge. This landscape creates a striking contrast between the intense green of the palm trees, the ochre tones of the earth and the aridity of the desert. Walking through this oasis is a unique sensory experience, accompanied by the constant murmur of flowing water.

Located just a few kilometres from Tozeur and very close to the Sahara Desert, Nefta is also renowned for its strong spiritual character. For centuries it has been an important religious centre and enjoys the privilege of being the second most important pilgrimage site in Tunisia, after Kairouan. Numerous mausoleums of local saints are scattered throughout the town, enhancing its mystical and serene atmosphere.

As in Tozeur, the traditional architecture of Nefta is one of its great attractions. The houses are built with small clay bricks arranged in delicate geometric patterns, and many doors and decorative elements are made from palm wood, a perfect reflection of adaptation to the environment.

Nefta is, without doubt, a must-see stop on any journey through southern Tunisia, a place where oasis, desert, spirituality and authentic traditions come together to offer travellers a deep and truly unique experience.