Best Of Authentic Tunisia In 9 Days: History, Culture & Desert
About this tour
Discover Tunisia beyond the guidebooks on an immersive journey designed for curious travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. This itinerary is perfect for those who want to connect with local communities, uncover hidden stories, and experience the country's rich heritage from an insider's perspective.
Explore the vibrant capital of Tunis, stroll through the iconic blue-and-white streets of Sidi Bou Said, and delve into the fascinating history of Carthage with a knowledgeable local guide. Travel through UNESCO-listed treasures such as Kairouan and the ancient Roman amphitheatre of El Jem, while discovering the coastal charm of Sousse and Hergla.
Venture south to explore Amazigh villages around Tataouine, learn about traditional ways of life, and experience the magic of the Sahara with a camel ride and an unforgettable night among the dunes of Douz. In Tozeur, discover hidden desert oases and refreshing waterfalls nestled in breathtaking landscapes.
Throughout the journey, travelers will gain a deeper understanding of Tunisia's history, culture, architecture, and traditions while sharing authentic moments with welcoming locals, enjoying traditional cuisine, and staying in carefully selected accommodations that reflect the true spirit of the country.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Aéroport de Tunis-Carthage, Tunis, Tunisie to Médina de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
Upon arrival at Tunis–Carthage International Airport, your driver will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name and will transfer you to your accommodation. You’ll then enjoy a short, 30-minute drive to a charming guesthouse in the heart of the Medina of Tunis, celebrating local traditional architecture and warm Tunisian hospitality. • Overnight: Medina of Tunis • Inclusions: Transfer from the airport to your accommodation
Day 2: Médina de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie to Site archéologique de Carthage, Tunisie
Today is where the magic begins. After breakfast at your guesthouse, you’ll set off with a knowledgeable local guide who will reveal the hidden stories behind the winding alleys, historic buildings, and hidden gems of the Medina of Tunis. Next, you’ll travel to Carthage Archaeological Site to explore its remarkable archaeological remains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll discover the fascinating history of the ancient civilizations that once flourished here and learn about the city’s pivotal role in Mediterranean history. Your day concludes in one of Tunisia’s most enchanting settings: the hilltop village of Sidi Bou Saïd. From this picturesque white-and-blue village, enjoy breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea and watch the sunset from one of the region’s most spectacular vantage points. The late afternoon and evening are yours to explore at leisure, wandering through the charming streets, browsing local boutiques, and relaxing in the village’s iconic cafés. • Overnight: Medina of Tunis • Inclusions: Guided tour of the Medina and Carthage archeologica sites, and entry fees • Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Tunis, Tunisie to Kairouan, Tunisie
Today marks the beginning of your journey into Tunisia’s magical south. After breakfast, you’ll continue towards Kairouan, one of the country’s most important historical and spiritual cities. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your local guide for a guided tour of Kairouan. Renowned for its rich Islamic heritage, the city is home to remarkable mosques, mausoleums, and historic monuments that reflect its significance as one of the great centers of early Islamic civilization. After your visit to Kairouan, you’ll continue to the charming coastal town of Hergla, a peaceful seaside village known for its authentic atmosphere and cultural character. Tonight, you’ll stay at a charming guesthouse located just steps from the beach. Built around a tranquil courtyard, it offers the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of discovery. • Overnight: Hergla • Inclusions: Guided tour in Kairouan, entry fees to the Great Mosque of Kairouan • Meals: Breakfast Add-on at extra cost: For those who wish to deepen their culinary discovery in Kairouan, a street food tour can be arranged to sample the city’s most iconic specialties, including kafteji, a nationally-beloved savory dish, and makroudh, a traditional sweet delicacy for which Kairouan is famous. Add-on at extra cost: Guests can also take part in a makroudh-making workshop with local bakers, where they will learn how to prepare this traditional pastry and discover the techniques behind one of the city’s most cherished culinary traditions.
Day 4: Hergla, Tunisie to Tataouine, Tunisie
Wake up to a traditional breakfast served in the courtyard of your guesthouse, before joining your knowledgeable guide Hakim for a walking tour of the quiet and charming fishing town of Hergla. Together, you’ll explore its lesser-known archaeological site off the usual tourist path, then continue through the town’s streets as you learn about its history and discover the fascinating local craft of halfa weaving, deeply rooted in the area’s cultural heritage. After your tour, you’ll set off toward Tataouine, gradually leaving coastal life behind as you travel through Tunisia’s striking and ever-changing southern landscapes. Upon arrival, check in to a traditional guesthouse or an atmospheric cave-dwelling, where you’ll experience your first momentsin the Tunisian South in a unique and authentic setting, and enjoy your first taste of southern Tunisian hospitality over a included dinner. • Overnight: Tataouine • Inclusions: Guided tour in Hergla • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 5: Tataouine, Tunisie
After a homemade breakfast, set out with a local guide to explore the treasures of the Tataouine region. Discover the legendary ksour—ancient fortified granaries that once protected food supplies and served as vital communal hubs across the desert landscapes. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the evocative Berber villages of Chenini and Douiret, where traditional architecture and centuries-old ways of life are still preserved. From there, set out on a short sunset hike to the hidden village of Guermessa, a peaceful and atmospheric spot overlooking the surrounding desert. Return to your accommodation in the evening to enjoy another lovingly prepared dinner, rounding off a day rich in discovery, culture, and breathtaking southern landscapes. • Overnight: Tatouine • Inclusions: A guided immersive experience in Tataouine • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6: Tataouine, Tunisie to Douz, Tunisie
Following your last homemade breakfast, you’ll set off for Douz, the Gateway to the Sahara, on a roughly 4-hour drive through spectacular and ever-changing desert landscapes. Upon arrival at the desert camp, you’ll be welcomed by your nomadic hosts, who will guide you to your base camp tent and help you settle into your surroundings. As the sun sets and night falls over the desert, enjoy dinner and a slow, peaceful evening by the campfire under the star-filled sky. • Overnight: Douz, Dune Insolites (Base camp) • Inclusions: Night in the desert • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Add-on at extra cost: For those seeking a deeper desert experience, a bivouac night is available as an optional add-on upon request. This immersive experience includes a camelback ride to the dune camp, participation in the baking of traditional “sand bread” and dinner by the campfire, and a night sleeping under the stars in a tent in the open desert.
Day 7: Douz, Tunisie to Tozeur, Tunisie
Greet the day with a breathtaking desert dawn in the heart of the Sahara Desert and savor a hearty nomad-style breakfast. Next, set off on a two-hour drive to Tozeur, the desert’s lively capital. Don’t forget your camera as you cross the legendary salt flats of Chott el Jerid. In the afternoon, explore the city on foot with a knowledgeable guide, marveling at the intricate brickwork of the old Medina of Medina and learning about its stories from a local. Finally, unwind in the evening as you settle into your chic boutique hotel for the night. • Overnight: Tozeur • Inclusions: Guided tour in the medina of Tozeur • Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Tozeur, Tunisie
Once you’ve enjoyed breakfast, get ready for a full-day adventure through some of Tozeur’s most spectacular landscapes and natural wonders. You’ll journey by 4×4 into the dramatic depths of Mides Canyon, discover the hidden desert waterfalls of Chebika Oasis, and wander through the lush mountain springs of Tamerza Oasis. As the afternoon light softens, make your way back to Tozeur and settle into your boutique hotel for one last enchanting evening. • Overnight: Tozeur • Inclusions: A guided immersive exeprience in Tozeur • Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Tozeur, Tunisie to Tunis, Tunisie
Following your last breakfast in Tozeur, check out and set off for Tunis. On your way north, we highly recommend stopping in El Jem Amphitheatre for a self-guided tour at the world’s third-largest colosseum. Do not be suprised if you entered the majestic place and realized that you have the whole place to yourself! It’s the perfect place to wander at your own pace, exploring the grand arena, imagining ancient gladiatorial battles, descending into the underground chambers and climbing up to the crowds viewing stands. Upon arrival in Tunis, you can be transferred to Tunis–Carthage International Airport (included), ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure for your journey home.
What's included
• Accommodation in charming guesthouses • Airport transfers on day 1 and day 9 • Daily breakfasts • 3 dinners (in Tataouine and Douz) • Guided tours with knowledgeable local guides • Entrance fees to the Carthage archaeological sites and the Great Mosque of Kairouan
• Transportation is not included in the displayed price but can be added upon request as an optional add-on. We offer a variety of transportation solutions, including car rentals, van rentals for groups, and private vehicles with professional drivers. • If the traveler wishes to include other additional meals, these can be arranged upon request.
Languages spoken
What to know
We can tailor this itinerary to suit each client’s preferences, including adjusting the number of days or adding additional destinations upon request. Please note that the prices displayed do not apply to the New Year’s Eve period.
Route & locations
Aéroport de Tunis-Carthage, Tunis, Tunisie to Médina de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie