Flamingo Island and the Ras Rmel lagoon: Djerba’s boat trip

Flamingo Island, which locals call Ras Rmel, is not really an island: it is a long sandspit closing off the lagoon north of Houmt Souk. Deserted and lined with shallow water, it has become the classic destination for boat trips from Djerba. Here is how to make the most of it.

Where is Flamingo Island?

The Ras Rmel peninsula stretches into the sea north of Houmt Souk and the tourist zone. You reach it by sea from Houmt Souk harbour, about an hour of gentle sailing. On foot or by car, access is long and without facilities: the boat trip remains the simplest and most pleasant way to get there.

How the boat trip works

The boats, often decked out as pirate ships, leave Houmt Souk harbour in the morning. The crossing is slow, giving time to watch the coast, sometimes fishermen at work and, depending on the season, birds. On arrival you land on the sand for a few hours: swimming, a lunch of grilled fish or Tunisian dishes, music and games for children. The return is in the mid or late afternoon.

When can you see the flamingos?

Flamingos frequent the lagoon mainly from autumn to spring, when they winter in Tunisia. In high summer they are rare or absent. Their numbers and location vary from year to year and with the tide: the trip is always a lovely day at sea, but do not book it only for the birds. To watch them, bring binoculars and keep your distance.

What is usually included

• Hotel pick-up (depending on the package) and transfer to the harbour.
• Return sailing and entertainment on board.
• Lunch and soft drinks, according to the programme.
• Free time on the beach.

Paid activities on site (camel rides, water sports) and extra drinks are generally paid separately. Always ask for the exact list.

Practical tips

• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and water: shade is scarce on the sandspit.
• Easy-to-remove shoes and a towel.
• Small dinar notes for extras.
• If you suffer from seasickness, be reassured: the lagoon is sheltered and the sailing is very calm.
• With young children, check that life jackets are available.

Alternatives and combinations

If you prefer a shorter outing, some packages offer a half day. You can also combine the boat day with a visit to Houmt Souk the day before or after. See our excursions in Djerba for the different options, and our “Things to do in Djerba” guide to plan your stay.

An ecosystem to respect

The Ras Rmel lagoon is an important wetland for migratory birds: flamingos, but also terns, gulls and waders. Do not feed the birds, do not approach them by boat or on foot, and take your rubbish back with you. Serious operators keep observation distances; feel free to remind them.

About the “pirate boats”

Most boats making the crossing are decked out as pirate ships, with music and games for children. If you prefer a calmer atmosphere, ask us: some trips on smaller boats or early in the morning are quieter and better for bird watching.

Fitting it into your stay

With a morning departure and a late afternoon return, the boat day stands on its own. The next day, half a day in Houmt Souk or a trip to Guellala rounds off the programme nicely. See our “Things to do in Djerba” guide.

Booking

Tell us your date, the number of participants and your hotel: we will suggest the most suitable trip, with details of what is included. The booking is confirmed in writing by the agency.