A Royal Journey Reawakens in Tunisia
After more than eight years of silence, the Lezard Rouge Tunisia’s most iconic train is once again steaming through the rugged canyons of southern Tunisia. On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, Mr Smaoui, an official from the National Railway Company (SNCFT), announced on Mosaïque FM that the legendary train is back in operation, fully restored and ready to welcome travellers.
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Its return comes at a symbolic time: the Tourism Promotion Days of Gafsa, running from May 16 to 18, 2025, under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism. The relaunch is not just the revival of a train, but a celebration of Tunisia’s heritage, craftsmanship, and efforts to breathe new life into regional tourism.
From Royalty to Rugged Rails: The History of the Lezard Rouge
Le Lézard Rouge, meaning “Red Lizard” in French, is no ordinary train. Built in 1910 by the French company Dyle & Bacalan, it was originally commissioned for the Bey of Tunis, serving as the official royal train. For over four decades, it transported Tunisia’s last three sovereigns in style and luxury until the abolition of the monarchy in 1957.
Its luxurious wooden interiors, red lacquered exteriors, and Belle Époque design made it a symbol of prestige and power. It was more than transportation; it was a royal carriage of diplomacy and ceremony, a rolling palace moving through southern Tunisia’s harsh yet captivating landscapes.
A Scenic Journey Like No Other with The Lezard Rouge in Gafsa Tunisia:
Today, the Lezard Rouge has been repurposed into a tourist train, but it hasn’t lost its original charm. The route from Métlaoui to Redeyef stretches across approximately two hours, cutting through the awe-inspiring Selja Gorges.
This railway, initially laid out for phosphate transport from the mineral-rich region of Gafsa, now offers an unforgettable ride through canyons, tunnels, stone bridges, and ochre cliffs that seem almost Martian in their desolate beauty. Passengers are treated to panoramic views that can’t be seen by car or even imagined until witnessed in person.
The train’s reactivation followed months of careful restoration, which began in September 2023 in the Sidi Fathallah workshops in Tunis. Technicians and artisans worked to preserve the train’s original architecture while ensuring safety and comfort for modern visitors. The result is a perfect blend of heritage and functionality.
Why the Lezard Rouge Matter to Tunisia?
The revival of the Lezard Rouge is not just a nostalgic nod to Tunisia’s royal past it’s a strategic cultural investment. In a time where authentic travel experiences are more in demand than ever, the Lézard Rouge offers a one-of-a-kind journey that combines history, geography, and identity.
It draws attention to the underexplored Gafsa region, helping to decentralize tourism from the coast and diversify Tunisia’s travel offering. The train is also a living museum, educating passengers about the country’s industrial and political evolution while showcasing the raw beauty of its inland landscapes.
Furthermore, it supports local economies, encourages eco-friendly travel, and invites photographers, historians, nature lovers, and curious travellers to rediscover a part of Tunisia that often goes unnoticed.
All Aboard a Timeless Journey
With its return to the rails, the Lézard Rouge offers a unique journey through both time and terrain. For both Tunisians and international visitors, it’s not just a tourist attraction it’s a powerful symbol of heritage, resilience, and revival.
Now operational, the Lézard Rouge departs daily at 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM, offering a 1 hour and 45-minute round trip. Tickets are priced at approximately 10 €. Whether you’re seeking royal elegance, stunning landscapes, or a deep dive into history, the Lézard Rouge awaits you red, regal, and ready to ride. For more information or to book tickets, you can contact them via email at lezardrouge@topnet.tn or by phone at 76241469 or 98212779.
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