Kairouan, Douz & El Djem 2-Day Trip

Embark on a captivating 2-day Sahara Desert experience, traversing through remarkable sites such as El Djem, Matmata, Douz, and Kairouan. Discover unique troglodyte dwellings and serene desert oases before spending the night in a cozy tent camp under the stars.

Tour Overview

Day 1: Tunis - El Djem - Matmata - Douz

Your journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Tunis, setting off on a scenic 2.5-hour drive southward. As we traverse diverse landscapes, prepare to immerse yourself in the essence of a genuine Sahara expedition.

After stopping in Hammamet for a self-arranged breakfast, we will head to the majestic El Djem Amphitheatre. Spending approximately an hour here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this Roman marvel, the third-largest amphitheater globally, and appreciate its rich historical significance.

Next, we will embark on a 3-hour journey to Matmata, renowned for its distinctive troglodyte homes hewn into the mountains, inhabited by local Berber families. We’ll tour one of these unique residences and visit the famed Sidi Idriss Hotel, a notable filming site for Star Wars. A lunch will be served at this location to refuel for the adventures ahead.

After about 1 hour and 20 minutes in Matmata, we will set off towards Douz, often referred to as the entrance to the Sahara Desert. Here, we will check into our desert camp and witness a breathtaking sunset over the golden dunes. The scenic majesty of this landscape is simply unforgettable!

For those interested, a camel ride is also available to delve deeper into the Sahara’s wonders. The day's events will culminate in a delightful Bedouin dinner under the stars, enhanced by traditional music and a demonstration on baking bread in the sands.

As night falls, we’ll retreat to our tents, surrounded by the profound silence of the desert. Rest well!

Day 2: Douz - Chott El Djerid - Chebika - Kairouan - Tunis

After breakfast, we are set to explore Chott El Djerid, located 1.5 hours away, which boasts the title of Tunisia's largest salt lake. The shifting colors and mirages of this area will transport you to a fantastical realm. It is said that a submerged palace lies beneath its shimmering surface!

Following a brief 20-minute visit, we’ll move on to the Chebika Oasis for an invigorating hour-long trek. This picturesque oasis, where fresh water flows from ancient mountains, reveals a lush paradise of palm trees and cascading waterfalls.

At lunchtime, we will pause at a local restaurant to replenish our energy. Later, we will continue towards Kairouan, the first sacred city of the Maghreb and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will visit the Great Mosque, a remarkable architectural landmark that laid the foundation for Islamic architecture in the region.

Concluding our adventure, we will embark on a 2-hour drive back to Tunis, with an estimated arrival at your hotel around 6 PM.

Accommodation Information

This trip includes one night at a desert camp in Douz.

The camp features tents equipped with electricity for device charging and a communal bathroom block, segmented for privacy. You will not have to share a tent with anyone outside your group, with options available for single, double, triple, and family accommodations. Extra charges apply for single occupancy, and children aged 1 to 12 must share a room with their guardians in an extra bed.

Food Arrangement

• Lunch on Day 1: Brik (a pastry filled with meat, tuna, or vegetables), couscous, a variety of salads, and seasonal fruits.
• Dinner on Day 1: Brik, meat prepared in a traditional gargoulette, accompanied by salad and seasonal fruits.
• Breakfast on Day 2: Eggs, dates, butter, jam, cheese, sand-baked bread, milk, coffee, and juice.
• Lunch on Day 2: Chicken or turkey escalopes, salad, and seasonal fruits.

Vegetarian meals can be arranged upon request. Beverages are not included and should be purchased separately.

New Year's Eve Celebration in the Sahara

On December 31, we will usher in the New Year in a captivating desert environment. The evening will begin with entertainment featuring knights and camels, reminiscent of ancient caravan journeys.

Guests will enjoy an aperitif at the camp before indulging in a traditional New Year's Eve feast styled in Bedouin tradition. Festive tunes provided by a folk band will accompany the celebration, with a DJ inviting everyone to dance under the expansive night sky.

The event will culminate in a stunning fireworks display, illuminating the sandy expanse, creating the perfect backdrop for the New Year festivities.

Private Tour Option

If you would prefer an exclusive experience with your own English-speaking guide, we recommend reserving our 2-day private tour.