Gafsa is the main city of its region, and the centre of the profitable phosphate industry. Unlike the towns closer to the mines, Metlaoui and Moulares, it has not been turned into a dust hell. Gafsa is a modern town, busy and friendly, but without many tourists. Those coming here, most often stay only for the night before they head in direction of the mountain oases of Mides and Tamerza, or travel down to the region around Tozeur.

Should you choose to spend some time in Gafsa, there are clearly some attractions that will entertain you. Your first stop will probably be the 5 metre deep roman baths, which are surprisingly well preserved. The water comes from hot water springs, and offer some friendly 30° Centigrade. They were constructed for the use of normal people, and this still holds. Tourists are charmed by the boys jumping into the water from a roof, diving for coins thrown into one of the pools.
The kasbah is now open to tourists, after considerable rebuilding, as it was heavily destroyed during World War 2. It was built by the Hafsids in the 13th century on the foundations of a Byzantine fortress. Later, many addtions came
A third attraction is the Dar Loungo, a residence of the 18th century. Like other rich man's houses in Tunisia, it is arranged around an inner courtyard, and there are several grand appartments to explore. From a roof terrace, you will be able to see large parts of the town of Gafsa.
Apart from this there is fairly little to see, except people of course. But strolling around the oasis, is a nice experience if you haven't done it in another oasis before. The whole oasis is fairly big, and has more than 100,000 palm trees.