Southern Tunisia offers a blend of Sahara Desert adventures, cultural immersion, and natural wonders. The right tour depends on your interests, whether you’re drawn to exploring ancient sites, enjoying desert activities, or experiencing the tranquility of oases.
Popular Tour Options in Southern Tunisia
1. Sahara Desert Adventure
Duration: 1–3 days
Highlights:
Camel treks across the Grand Erg Oriental.
Visits to the stunning Ksar Ghilane oasis, where you can relax in hot springs.
Overnight stays in desert camps with traditional Berber hospitality and stargazing.
Best For: Adventure seekers and nature lovers.
2. Cultural Heritage and Film Locations
Duration: 1–2 days
Highlights:
Explore the troglodyte homes of Matmata, including the iconic Star Wars set at Hotel Sidi Driss.
Visit Ksar Ouled Soltane and Ksar Hadada, ancient Berber granaries with unique architecture.
Wander through the medina of Douz and learn about local traditions.
Best For: History buffs and Star Wars fans.
3. Mountain Oases Tour
Duration: 1 day
Highlights:
Visit Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides, three stunning oases with waterfalls, palm groves, and dramatic canyons.
Enjoy panoramic hikes and the serenity of these lush desert havens.
Best For: Nature enthusiasts and photographers.
4. Salt Flats and Desert Landscapes
Duration: 1–2 days
Highlights:
Explore the vast Chott el Jerid salt flats, famous for mirages and pink-tinged reflections.
Combine with stops at Ong Jemel (“Camel’s Neck”) and the Mos Espa Star Wars set.
Best For: Scenic explorers and adventure seekers.
5. Customized Multi-Day Tours
Duration: 3–5 days
Highlights:
A mix of desert adventures, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders.
Options for camel treks, quad biking, and visiting archaeological sites like Dougga or El Jem.
Best For: Travelers wanting an in-depth experience of Southern Tunisia.
Factors to Consider
Time Available
Short trips: Focus on specific destinations like Matmata, Ksar Ghilane, or the mountain oases.
Longer trips: Combine multiple experiences, including desert camping and cultural sites.
Activities
Adventure: Look for tours with camel treks, 4×4 rides, or quad biking.
Culture: Choose tours that emphasize visits to ksour (granaries) and traditional villages.
Budget
Luxurious: Opt for private guided tours with premium accommodations like luxury desert camps.
Budget-Friendly: Group tours and basic camping options are widely available.
Season
Best time: October to May, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable.