From Hammamet: 2-day Sahara Express Tour
About this tour
Travel from the north of Tunisia to visit the desert highlights of the south. Over the course of 2 days, discover the mountain oases of Tozeur, the dunes of Douz, and El Jem amphitheater.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Hammamet, Tunisia to Sabria, Es Sabria, Tunisia
Day 1: Departure – El Jem – Matmata – Sabria (Desert Camp) Your adventure begins at 6:00 AM, when we pick you up directly from your hotel or residence. Get ready to travel through history, culture, and desert legends. First stop: El Jem. Step into the mighty Roman Empire as you explore one of the world’s best-preserved amphitheaters – a UNESCO World Heritage site that rivals Rome’s Colosseum. Continue south to the troglodyte village of Matmata, with a stop at the iconic Sidi Driss Hotel, the filming location for Star Wars: A New Hope. Meet locals and discover how families still live in underground houses carved into the rock – enjoy a welcoming cup of rosemary tea with honey and olive oil. Photo stop in the peaceful Berber village of Tamazret, perched on a ridge above the desert. Lunch in a traditional local restaurant on the way to the desert. By mid-afternoon, you'll reach the village of Sabria, where the dunes begin to roll endlessly into the Sahara. Settle into a comfortable desert camp in the dunes – a true off-the-grid escape. Optional: Camel ride at sunset, a timeless way to experience the golden silence of the desert. Watch and participate in the preparation of sand bread, baked under hot embers in the traditional Bedouin way. Enjoy a delicious homemade dinner and gather around the campfire for stories and stargazing. Sleep under the stars or retreat to your private tent. The Milky Way here feels close enough to touch.
Day 2: Sabria, Es Sabria, Tunisia to Hammamet, Tunisia
Day 2: Sabria – Chott El Jerid – Chebika – Kairouan – Return Wake up to the crisp silence of the desert and enjoy breakfast at the camp before hitting the road. Cross the mysterious Chott El Jerid, North Africa’s largest salt lake – a surreal landscape of shimmering mirages and endless salt flats. Head north to the breathtaking mountain oasis of Chebika, where palm trees grow from canyon walls and fresh water flows from stone. Explore the abandoned old village, hike to a hidden waterfall, and feel the cool breeze among the rocks. On the way back, stop for lunch in a local eatery, then reach Kairouan, the holy city of Tunisia. Admire the exterior of the Great Mosque of Kairouan (viewable before 13:00), a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Take a short walk in the enchanting UNESCO-listed old medina, where artisans, spices, and history meet. Return to your hotel with a heart full of memories and your camera full of magic.
What's included
Camel ride costs around 25 Euros depends on local provider and duration. Quad tour costs around 40 euros depends on local provider and duration.
Languages spoken
What to know
Nights in th desert can be cold (think of a jacket). Bring your personal towel and toileteries.
Route & locations
Hammamet, Tunisia to Sabria, Es Sabria, Tunisia