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Working on wildlife research and sustainable livelihood via community-based ecotourism
We are a team of committed and experienced people from many backgrounds conducting research on the ecology, the conservation status and behaviour of Tunisian wildlife in Bouhedma and in south Tunisia since 2019. Our aim is aligning conservation goals and the ones of the local community in general. Our results directly support Tunisian wildlife conservation in Bouhedma and beyond. We’re grateful to the IUCN, the PPIOSCAN programm, the Institut Francais de Tunisie and other supporters and funding partners for the generous support of our research projects.
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The Bouhedma Biodiversity and Research Center
Situated in the Bouhedma National Park, the last Tunisian pre-Saharan Savannah biome, the center consists of a scientific research pole which brings together several biodiversity stakeholders to contribute to preserving and sustainably managing the biodiversity of the park and its surroundings and effectively including local population in conservation. The observatory is functioning as a work space for researchers, an ecological library (ecotheque), a station for ecological survey equipment and supplies and a place for field courses.
Our vision is to be a leader in wildlife research and experiential learning. Since 2019, we have been supporting wildlife research and conservation, student training in the natural sciences, and outdoor education.
We operate as a registered Tunisian not-for-profit organization administered by a volunteer board of directors and a small team of staff. Our organization NAWT "North African Wild Traces" (Ex. ATRAkouda) has been at the forefront of nature conservation and scientific expeditions since the organization's inception in 2014.
Our mission
We work to ensure the delicate balance between the environments, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in local communities around the Bouhedma National Park
Wildlife conservation
The threats from wildlife poaching, habitat loss and unsustainable development present an immediate risk of extinction to many species. Whilst we develop long-term solutions we must ensure no further losses to wildlife populations and their habitat
Build local capacity
We believe that local communities are at the core of our mission. Our role is to support the vision of local people; to empower and assist with resources to enable sustainable development in harmony with nature preservation
Long-term solutions
Conservation cannot be effective without genuine consideration of socio-economic needs and all inclusive strategic planning. Whilst long term support from international partners may be required, our end goal is always redundancy as a result of permanent and effective locally managed biodiversity protection
PROJECTS
Since 2019, we have been conducting research on the ecology, conservation status, and behaviour of Tunisian wildlife in Bouhedma National Park and across southern Tunisia.
Engaging local communities in wildlife protection is a cornerstone of our work, ensuring that conservation grows from within the landscapes we aim to protect.
Over the years, we have launched three key projects, each contributing to a deeper understanding of biodiversity and the connection between people and nature.
Here, you can learn more about our specific initiatives and their impact on the ground.
RESEARCH
Our research projects have been active in Bouhedma National Park since 2019.
Our team focuses mainly on wildlife monitoring and tracking to fill data gaps and ensure a continuous update of biodiversity assessments in the region.
We have established a Participatory Wildlife Observatory that brings together scientists, students, naturalists, and local communities in collaborative fieldwork.
Through our Scientific Tourism concept, we also involve visitors in hands-on research, creating bridges between science, culture, and conservation.
Our mission is to turn knowledge into action — developing practical, science-based solutions to protect Tunisia’s wildlife and its fragile ecosystems.
PRODUCTS
Our shop is well worth a visit!
At our visitor center in Bouhedma and through our online shop, you’ll find a selection of handmade and locally sourced products that reflect the spirit of the region.
Discover unique creations from four local artisans living around the National Park — including pottery, woven carpets, herbal blends, and other traditional crafts.
Every purchase supports local families and helps sustain community-based conservation in Bouhedma.
Looking to stay at Bouhedma?
In collaboration with the local population we provide facilities for researchers, students as well as for all visitors, hikers, campers who want to stay in Bouhedma... In addition to providing accommodations and meals, we can also provide logistical support, guided hiking tours, camping equipment, mountain bike hiring, lab space, scientific survey equipment, hiking with donkey (coming soon) and more.
Accommodation & camping options
Learn about our facilities, rates and services
Guided tours and equipment
Join a guided tour with our local guide. We provide multiple mountain-bikes for rent as well as donkeys for hiking tours
Contact Us
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Send us a message
Important Notice – Access to Bouhedma National Park
Access to Bouhedma National Park – as well as to most national parks in Tunisia – is only permitted with an official entry permit.
This permit is delivered by the Direction Générale des Forêts (DGF) and must be obtained before your visit.
You have two options:
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We can apply for the permit on your behalf together with our local guide, or
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You can request the permit directly from the DGF via:
dgforet.boc@gmail.com
+216 71 786 833
Please make sure to apply early enough (2 weeks in advance) so that your permit can be issued in time for your planned visit.
Your journey begins!
Volunteer with us!
Join us on any one of our current projects or even start your own. We are looking for smart and enthusiastic volunteers and students to become part of our working group and help us fill vital research gaps in Tunisia's savannah area!
Discover Bouhedma
Bouhedma lies in the pre-Saharan region of Tunisia and represents an ecosystem a little bit unique in Tunisia. It comprises an ancient pre-Saharan savannah with acacia raddiana trees, a relic of a quaternary acacia forest that survived due to geomorphologic reasons. Surrounded by mountain ranges the region is like an island with its microclimate and has been protected all the years.
Explore new landscapes, discover the flora and fauna and meet different people, cultures, traditions. Our visitors and students come from all over the world. Bouhedma has so much to offer!
Bouhedma Blog
Discover our Blog from the field
Annual research reports
Our annual research report is a way for us to share with our members, supporters and...
Latest from our Bouhedma Blog
Our website is currently undergoing essential maintenance to enhance your browsing experience. We apologize if informations in this website are not fully complete. Rest assured, our team is working diligently to improve our platform.
If you have any urgent inquiries, please contact us via the contact form here below:
Contact Us
Our association has its formal base in Akouda (Sousse). Research operations are conducted at the field research station in Bouhedma as well as in other national Parks in South Tunisia.
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Saturday
Sunday
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Network & Partners
Our work is not carried out in isolation, but in close collaboration with many trusted partners within a strong network in Tunisia and worldwide.
Political Partners
Funding Partners
Academic and further partners
