North Africa American Cemetery
A solemn tribute to 2,841 American heroes of WWII, the only American cemetery in Africa, offering peace and remembrance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour glow
North Africa American Cemetery
Best Time
Golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn tribute to 2,841 American heroes of WWII, the only American cemetery in Africa, offering peace and remembrance.
"A must-visit in Tunis, this cemetery is a powerful reminder of sacrifice and shared history."
Allow 2+ Hours
Don't just stop for a photo; immerse yourself in the history and solemnity.
Dress Respectfully
This is a sacred burial ground. Modest attire is appreciated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wall of the Missing
Memorial Court
A solemn tribute listing 3,724 names of those lost at sea or missing in action.
Chapel of Remembrance
Central Courtyard
A serene space for quiet reflection, featuring beautiful mosaics and maps of WWII campaigns.
The Rows of Headstones
Burial Plots
2,841 gleaming white marble headstones, a powerful visual reminder of sacrifice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time for Reflection
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow 2+ Hours
Don't just stop for a photo; immerse yourself in the history and solemnity.
Dress Respectfully
This is a sacred burial ground. Modest attire is appreciated.
Visit the Visitors Center
Discover historical photos and an original 2nd-century mosaic.
Ask for a Personal Tour
The staff, like Adrien Adams, offer incredible insights and personalized experiences.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow 2+ Hours
Don't just stop for a photo; immerse yourself in the history and solemnity.
Dress Respectfully
This is a sacred burial ground. Modest attire is appreciated.
Visit the Visitors Center
Discover historical photos and an original 2nd-century mosaic.
Ask for a Personal Tour
The staff, like Adrien Adams, offer incredible insights and personalized experiences.
Bring Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated while exploring the grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the North Africa American Cemetery as a profoundly moving and beautifully maintained memorial. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the historical significance of honoring fallen WWII soldiers, leaves a lasting impression. While the site is free to enter, many recommend allocating ample time to truly appreciate its solemnity and the dedication of the staff.
"My mother and I embarked on a transformative 5,000-mile journey to the North African American Cemetery, driven by the recent discovery that my grandfather's name is etched on the revered 'Wall of the Missing.' We had the privilege of connecting with Adrien Adams, Director/Superintendent of the North African American Cemetery, American Battle Monuments Commission, who, along with his team, went above and beyond to make our visit truly unforgettable. Adrien's thoughtful gestures, including placing wet sand in my grandfather's name for clarity, providing a poignant explanation of the North African campaign, and opening the chapel for a private moment of reflection, left a lasting impression. The 27-acre cemetery, a serene oasis in the desert, is a masterful blend of Arlington's grandeur and the Vietnam War Memorial's solemnity. Rather than merely stopping for a photo opportunity, we encourage visitors to immerse themselves in this historical treasure, allocating at least two hours to explore and absorb the significance of this sacred site, ideally as the setting sun casts a warm glow on the gleaming white headstones."
Carrie Sharp
"The cemetery is beautifully maintained. A powerful reminder of sacrifice and shared history set in a serene location near Carthage"
Hadil mahfoudhi
"This was the highlight and the reasons or my trip to Tunisia. The North African Cemetery is the final resting place for 2,841 of our fallen soldiers who died fighting in North Africa. It was opened in 1960.
The grounds are stunning. Beautiful flowers, trees, fountains all around the cemetery area. The chapel is beautiful.
The memorial court is just beautiful. Amazing mosaics and maps of the battle areas in North Africa from WWII. In the background you can hear the soothing sound of the water fountain.
The visitors center is very warm and welcoming with an original mosaic on the wall from the 2nd century. There are also various photos on the wall including those of Captain Foy Draper, and Medal of Honor recipient Nicholas Minue.
The Wall of the Missing contains the names of 3,724 service members whose bodies have not been recovered.
I would personally like to Thank the Director of the North African Cemetery and Memorial for his (and his teams) warm welcome and personal tour.
This is a must visit when in Tunis."
Michael Mack
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located in Carthage, a short drive from Tunis. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to reach the site. Some visitors have also arranged private tours that include transportation.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at the North Africa American Cemetery.
While public transport options exist to get to Carthage, a taxi or ride-sharing service from the nearest stop might be necessary for the final leg to the cemetery itself.
Many visitors combine a trip to the North Africa American Cemetery with other Carthage historical sites. Hiring a taxi for the day or booking a guided tour can be efficient.
The grounds are generally well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible for many. However, it's always a good idea to contact the cemetery directly for specific accessibility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the North Africa American Cemetery is free of charge. It is a memorial site maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission.
The cemetery is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Advance booking is not required for general visits. However, if you are part of a large group or wish to arrange a special tour, it's advisable to contact the cemetery administration beforehand.
The cemetery is closed on Christmas Day (December 25th) and New Year's Day (January 1st). It is open on other public holidays.
Visitors are generally allowed to bring cameras and personal belongings. However, large bags or items that could be disruptive are usually not permitted. It's best to check their official guidelines if unsure.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It is the final resting place for 2,841 American military personnel who died during World War II's North African campaign. It also honors those missing in action on the Wall of the Missing.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least two hours to fully appreciate the site, reflect on its history, and explore the memorials.
Key areas include the Wall of the Missing, the Chapel of Remembrance with its mosaics and maps, and the meticulously arranged rows of white marble headstones.
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, it's important to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, especially during moments of reflection.
While not always formally scheduled, the cemetery staff, like Director Adrien Adams, are known to provide incredibly insightful and personal tours if arrangements are made.
📸 📸 Photography
The long, symmetrical rows of headstones, the Chapel's architecture, and the Wall of the Missing offer powerful photographic opportunities. The late afternoon light can create a beautiful atmosphere.
While personal photography is allowed, it's crucial to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid drone photography or any shots that might disturb other visitors.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the grounds, while a telephoto can isolate details.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of the white marble headstones and the memorial structures.
Yes, you can photograph the names, but do so respectfully. Some visitors have used techniques like placing paper and charcoal over the names to get rubbings, but check cemetery policy first.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger historical tour of Carthage. The visitor center offers some historical context that can be simplified for younger minds. Emphasize the respect and quiet demeanor required, turning it into a lesson on honoring heroes.
🇺🇸 Veterans and Military Families
+1If you have a family member whose name is on the Wall of the Missing or who is interred here, the staff are known for their exceptional support and can help make the visit even more personal and meaningful.
🌍 History Buffs
Take the time to read the information provided and consider the broader geopolitical implications of the battles fought in North Africa. The cemetery is a tangible link to a pivotal period in world history, offering a unique perspective on the sacrifices made for global freedom.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance
Beyond the 2,841 buried here, the Wall of the Missing bears the names of 3,724 additional service members who were lost at sea or whose remains were never recovered. This solemn feature ensures that no one is forgotten. The cemetery's design is a blend of solemnity and beauty, with meticulously maintained grounds, fountains, and a chapel, creating a serene environment for remembrance.
Visitors often speak of the profound emotional impact of walking among the rows of white marble headstones. It's a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the shared history between nations. The presence of notable individuals, including Tuskegee Airmen and a Medal of Honor recipient, adds further layers to the historical narrative.
Experiencing the Memorial
The Chapel of Remembrance is a central feature, adorned with stunning mosaics and maps that detail the North African campaign. It provides a quiet space for visitors to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made. The Memorial Court, leading to the Wall of the Missing, is equally impressive, offering a solemn yet beautiful setting.
Social media content often highlights the visual beauty of the cemetery, particularly the endless rows of gleaming white headstones stretching across the landscape.
+1 The late afternoon sun is frequently mentioned as casting a warm, evocative glow over the memorial, enhancing the emotional impact of the visit. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit