Tunis Village: Fayoum’s Bohemian Lakeside Art Colony

Escape to Tunis Village, Fayoum's bohemian art colony perched above Lake Qarun. This charming village is world-famous for its distinctive pottery; you can visit the studios of master artists or take a hands-on class at the original Fayoum Pottery School. Explore the winding, flower-lined streets, take a sunset boat ride on the lake, go birdwatching for flamingos, or visit the Fayoum Art Centre. Stay in a unique Nubian-style boutique hotel and enjoy the tranquil, creative atmosphere of this stunning lakeside gem.

EFT Team
April 7, 2022
Updated: November 6, 2025

Tucked away on the shores of Lake Qarun, Tunis Village is an enchanting artist’s colony and one of Egypt’s most unique destinations. It’s a world away from the bustle of Cairo, a tranquil oasis defined by its lush gardens, Nubian-style villas, and a world-famous pottery scene.

A Potter’s Paradise: The Story of Tunis Village

What to Expect - Tunis Village in Fayoum - Egypt Fun Tours

While founded in the 1960s by two Egyptian poets, the village’s modern story began in the 1980s. A Swiss potter, Evelyne Porret, moved here and established a small studio. She soon began teaching the local children the art of pottery, transforming her workshop into a school.

Today, that legacy is everywhere. The village is now a vibrant hub for artists, and many of those original students have become master potters, running their own studios and galleries, and shipping their beautiful, distinctive “Fayoumi” pottery around the world.

The Vibe: What to Expect

Walking into Tunis Village feels like stepping into another world. The air is peaceful, and the unpaved roads are lined with vibrant rose bushes, pomegranate shrubs, and flowering trees.

The architecture is a charming mix of Nubian and Tunisian styles, with domed roofs and colorful, artistically designed homes. The community is warm and welcoming to visitors, with a mix of local families and foreign nationals who have made the village their home. It’s the perfect place to unwind, explore, and let your own creativity flow.

Top 6 Things to Do in Tunis Village

From art to adventure, the village offers a unique blend of activities.

1. Make Your Own Pottery (A Must-Do)

You cannot visit Tunis Village without trying your hand at its most famous craft. It’s a fun, hands-on experience to create your own mug, plate, or vase with your own design. It also makes for the perfect, personal souvenir.

Where to Go: Fayoum Pottery School (Evelyne’s original school)
Location: Ibsheway area, Tunis Village
Price: EGP 100 per person
Hours: 9 am – 5 pm
Contact: 01001388018

2. Take a Boat Ride on Qarun Lake

Tunis Village overlooks the vast, ancient Lake Qarun. Taking a traditional boat ride is a must, especially at sunset. It’s the best way to see the nearby Qarun waterfalls and witness the lake’s mesmerizing, tranquil beauty.

Location: The lake is directly accessible from the village.

3. Go Birdwatching

The lake is a crucial resting spot for migratory birds. This makes Tunis Village a prime location for birdwatching. You can spot flamingos, ducks, and many other species.

Best Time: From September through the end of May.
Contact (for guided tours): 01003779542
Prices (Guided): Tours start from EGP 700 for a solo trip, with the per-person price decreasing as the group size increases.

4. Visit the Fayoum Art Centre & Caricature Museum

Founded by artist Mohamed Abla, this center is a cultural hub. It houses the Caricature Museum, the first of its kind in the Middle East, with over 500 works from various Arab artists. The center also hosts workshops and an academy for artists.

Location: Ibeshway area, Tunis Village
Price: EGP 20 per person
Hours: 10 am – 9 pm
Contact: 01120021213

5. Ride Horses

Experience the village and the surrounding desert landscape on horseback. It’s a fantastic activity for both adults and kids, with options for a gentle walk or a faster ride in the desert.

Location: At the entrance of Tunis Village
Price: EGP 80 (30 mins) | EGP 150 (1 hour)
Contact: 01002094774

6. Explore the Village on a Bike

One of the best ways to see the village’s hidden corners and charming streets is on two wheels. You can easily rent a bike and enjoy a joyful ride at your own pace.

Location: Opposite Kom El Dika Hotel
Hours: 8 am – 8 pm
Contact: 01027273733

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Tunis Village

The village is famous for its boutique hotels and guesthouses, which are as artistic as the village itself. They emphasize nature, serenity, and beautiful design.

1. Lazib Inn Resort & Spa (Luxury)

This is the top luxury option for those looking to pamper themselves. It’s known for its exceptional service, beautiful landscapes, spa, and stunning pool.

Best for: Luxury stays, spa weekends, couples.
Facilities: Spa, swimming pool, restaurant, lush gardens.
Price: Starts from EGP 2,812/night for two.
Contact: 01090735328

2. Barefoot Tunis Village (Private Villas)

For a more private and independent stay, Barefoot offers three unique, self-catering residential options (“Barefoot,” “Sheesh,” and “Tea Cup”). Each has its own private kitchen, pool, terrace, and garden.

Best for: Groups, friends, or families seeking privacy.
Facilities: Pet-friendly, private pools, private kitchens.
Price: Varies by unit (e.g., “Tea Cup” from EGP 1,260/2 nights).
Email: Barefootintunis@gmail.com

3. Tunis Village El Fayoum (Rooftop Views)

A highly-recommended hotel with excellent services, a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the lake, an indoor pool, and lovely green spaces.

Best for: Great views, relaxing by the pool.
Facilities: Indoor pool, rooftop terrace, wide green areas.
Price: Starts from EGP 1,537/night for two.
Contact: 01113681037

4. Tunis King Hotel (Budget-Friendly)

A great-value option that still offers good amenities, including a swimming pool, gardens, and a terrace.

Best for: Travelers on a budget.
Facilities: Swimming pool, gardens, terrace, restaurant.
Price: Starts from EGP 834/night for two.

5. Tunis Village Chalet (Families & Groups)

This spot is ideal for families, offering spacious 2-bedroom chalets that can accommodate larger groups. It’s pet-friendly and overlooks the lake.

Best for: Families, longer stays.
Facilities: Pet-friendly, outdoor dining area, terrace, lake views.
Price: Starts from EGP 2,130/night (for a full chalet).

Where to Eat: Top Restaurants

The food in Tunis Village focuses on fresh, local, and often organic ingredients, with many dishes prepared in the traditional Fayoumi way.

1. Ibis Restaurant & Cooking School

Famous for its high-quality, tasteful food using fine organic ingredients. The owners provide a flawless dining experience with fresh, daily-cooked meals.

Known for: Organic food, high-end dining, cooking classes.
Location: Off Qarun Lake Touristic Road
Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Contact: 01060906048

2. Kom El Dikka Agri Lodge

A must-try for authentic, gourmet local food. They plant almost all their own ingredients. Don’t miss the duck or stuffed pigeon. You can also buy their organic vegetables and ready-to-eat meals.

Known for: Farm-to-table Egyptian food, duck & pigeon.
Location: Youssef Al Sedeeke, Tunis Village
Contact: 01222440012

3. Tunis Restaurant

For seafood lovers, this is one of the best spots in the area. They serve delicious, fresh fish, shrimp, and lobsters made with their own special recipes.

Known for: Fresh seafood.
Location: Ibeshway area, Tunis Village
Hours: 10 am – 8 pm
Contact: 01022275300

Plan Your Visit: Practical Tips

What to Wear (Shoes): The village roads are unpaved and uneven to match the rustic architecture. Wear comfortable flat shoes for walking.
What to Pack (Weather): If you visit between May and October, the weather can be very hot. Bring a hat, high-quality sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water.
Best Time to Visit: The weather is most pleasant from September to April. This also coincides with the birdwatching season.

Explore Tunis Village with Egypt Fun Tours

Ready for a breath of fresh air? At Egypt Fun Tours, we offer both a one-day tour to experience the art and atmosphere, or a two-day tour to Tunis Village for a chance to truly unwind, relax, and take in the serenity. Let us handle the details while you enjoy the magic of Fayoum.

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