What a hammam is
The hammam is a traditional steam bath and an everyday part of life in Tunisia. Many hotels and spas offer one, often with a scrub and a massage, and there are also local bathhouses in town.
How a session usually goes
You start by warming up in the steam room, then your skin is covered with black soap, a soft olive-based soap. An attendant then scrubs you with a rough glove called a kessa before you rinse off. Many spas end with a massage and a rest with mint tea.
What to wear
In hotel spas, a swimsuit or the disposable underwear provided is usual, and men and women may share some areas. Local bathhouses often have separate times or rooms for men and women: ask before you go.
Practical tips
Drink water before and after, and avoid going straight after a large meal. If you are pregnant or have a heart or blood-pressure condition, ask your doctor first. Leave valuables at the hotel.
Choosing your ritual
Rituals differ in length and in what they include, from a simple scrub to a full session with a massage. Each activity page lists exactly what is included.
