3-day Sahara, Oasis & Heritage Journey
About this tour
Experience
Experience the best of Tunisia in just three days on this immersive journey from Tunis. Travel through sacred cities, lush oases, and vast desert landscapes while discovering the country’s rich history and culture. From the spiritual heart of Kairouan to the cinematic desert of Tozeur and the golden dunes of Douz, this tour blends adventure, heritage, and authentic local encounters. End your journey with iconic sites like Matmata and the majestic El Djem amphitheater.
Highlights
Visit Kairouan, one of Islam’s holiest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore Tozeur and the stunning mountain oases (Chebika & Tamerza)
Discover Star Wars filming locations in Ong Jemal and Matmata
Cross the spectacular Chott El Jerid salt lake
Experience a night in a Sahara desert camp with Berber dinner
Enjoy optional camel or quad rides in the dunes
Meet locals and explore troglodyte homes in Matmata
Visit the iconic El Djem Amphitheater, one of the largest Roman colosseums
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Departure from Tunis Visit Kairouan (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Great Mosque of Kairouan Mausoleum of the Barber Aghlabid Basins Explore the Medina of Kairouan and its souks Visit a carpet weaving workshop with local artisans Enjoy a typical Tunisian lunch and taste the famous Makroud pastry Scenic drive toward Tozeur (with stops) Arrival in Tozeur Hotel check-in (4★) Dinner and overnight stay
Day 2
Breakfast at the hotel 4x4 excursion to: Chebika oasis (mountain springs & palm groves) Tamerza waterfalls (possible swim) Ong Jemal (Star Wars filming location) Learn about date production and enjoy tastings Lunch in an oasis setting Drive across Chott El Jerid (salt lake) Arrival in Douz (Gateway to the Sahara) Optional camel or quad ride (extra) Check-in at desert camp Berber dinner + sand bread demonstration Overnight under the stars
Day 3
Breakfast in the desert camp Visit Matmata: Troglodyte underground dwellings Meet local Berber families Visit Sidi Driss Hotel (Star Wars site) Continue to El Djem: Explore the Roman amphitheater (UNESCO) Lunch break Return to Tunis
What's included
Professional licensed guide (English/French) throughout the tour Private air-conditioned transport (car, minivan, or minibus depending on group size) Accommodation: 1 night in a 4★ hotel in Tozeur 1 night in a traditional Sahara desert camp (shared facilities) 4x4 Jeep excursion to Chebika, Tamerza & Ong Jemal Entrance fees to all mentioned sites (Kairouan, El Djem, etc.) Meals: Breakfasts Dinners (Tozeur hotel & desert camp) Lunches as mentioned in the program Cultural experiences: Carpet weaving workshop in Kairouan Date tasting in Tozeur region Sand bread demonstration in the desert
Drinks Tips and gratuities Personal expenses Optional activities (camel ride / quad biking in Douz) Any additional services not mentioned in “Included”
Languages spoken
What to know
Cash recommended: For tips, drinks, and optional activities (Tunisian dinar) Early departures & long drives 4x4 experience: Mountain oasis visits are done by off-road vehicles What to wear: Comfortable clothes, walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. A jacket is recommended for desert nights Health note: Not ideal for travelers with back problems due to long drives and off-road sections Photography: Expect incredible photo opportunities — keep devices charged