Southern Tunisia is a land of dramatic desert landscapes, ancient ksars, rolling sand dunes, salt lakes, lush oases, and Saharan culture. This Tunisia Sahara desert guide will show you the top things to do when you’re going to the South of Tunisia!
Where to stay in the South of Tunisia?
Things to do in Djerba, Tunisia
1) Star Wars Film locations
Star Wars movies may be set ‘in a galaxy far, far away,’ but the filming spots in Tunisia can be visited easily. South Tunisia is the place for Star Wars enthusiasts. Add these popular Star Wars shooting locations to your must-visit list: Mos Espa, Lars Homestead, Tataouine, … Read more about all Star Wars Film Locations you can visit in Tunisia.
2) Berber village
You can say that the Berber people are the real Tunisians of old. You can find centuries-old villages in the whole of Tunisia. As a strategy to defend themselves from invaders, Berber settlements were either built on fortified mountaintops or dug into the ground in the form of troglodyte dwellings hidden in the rockface. Today, these houses are largely abandoned as their inhabitants have moved to newly built satellite towns with modern buildings. This unique Berber architecture and heritage inspired George Lucas for the Star Wars movies. Can you see why?
Cafe Ben Jemaa
When visiting another Berber village, we also stopped at Cafe Ben Jemaa, a cafe that goes down 4 generations already!
3) Matmata
Go to Matmata to see some Berber villages, the rocky landscape that inspired the moonscape in the Star Wars movies.
Ksar Ghilane
Go to Ksar Ghilane in Matmata: an oasis in the middle of the Sahara desert.
4) Tataouine
So there is this town in Tunisia that shares the name of a planet from Star Wars. Once again, George Lucas let him be inspired by Tunisia.
Tataouine – Chenini
Chenini is a Berber village in the rocky mountains. It is probably the oldest Berber town in Tunisia. Chenini appears to be deserted at first sight, but it is actually home to 600 people.
Tataouine – Mosquée des sept dor
After exploring the town, you might want to check out the Mosque of the Seven Sleepers. A tale claims that seven Christians who had lived for more than 400 years apiece and grown to gigantic heights slept here. Here they repose following their conversion to Islam.
5) Tembaine sahara dunes
Go spend the night in the Tembaine Sahara Desert, a 3-hour 4×4 drive from the nearest town and in the heart of the Grand Erg Oriental. We stayed at Camp Abdelmoula, where we enjoyed a beautiful sunset, sunrise, and watching the stars in the night (and during a sandstorm). Perfect place for a retreat!
Fun Fact: the tent camps here are more nomadic & ecological accommodations.
Chasing stars
During a sandstorm – I kid you not. Still got sand in my eye after 2 days. My shoes still have sand in them. 😉
Sunrise
6) Tozeur
Tozeur stands in the desert as a beautiful city surrounded by the biggest oasis of Tunisia. The houses in Tozeur are made of brick, decorating the facades with geometrical motifs. The bricks are still handmade using the same original techniques as the first people in Mesopotamia.
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7) Salt lake Chott el jerid
Sjott el-Djerid is a large salt lake in southern Tunisia. Pink flamingos have been known to use the shores of the lake as nesting sites in springtime
8) Chebika Mountain Oasis
Not far from Chebika, you will find a small waterfall that creates a natural lake. If you cross the lake, you will find a bigger one, even more spectacular. The beauty of the water sources and palm trees in opposition to the dry and rocky place is breathtaking.
9) Douz
Douz is an Oasis town near the desert and is the gateway to the white Sahara desert. It is famous for its Festival of Sahara where the Sahara culture is celebrated with music, dancing, and camel racing. From Douz it’s also easy to visit some Star Wars film locations like Mos Espa. Near Douz is Zaafrane where you can enter the white desert only by camel!
10) Tamerza old village
Together with Tozeur and Chebika, Tamerza is one of the most beautiful oasis town in Tunisia. The Tamerza Canyon is one of the main attractions of this region. The magnificent gorges carved by the once powerful river.
11) Mides Mountain Oasis
The oasis’s greenery contrasts with the surrounding rocky area. Go swim in some real paradises of small waterfalls in the middle of the canyon.
What to pack for the South of Tunisia?
Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your trip to Hurghada:
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned when visiting Egyptian temples!
- Microfiber towel: compact towel to take everywhere with you & that dries quickly!
- Hat or cap: for sun protection
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip.
Transportation in Tunisia
Popular transport to travel within Tunis includes minibuses, buses, taxis, and private drivers. We used a mix of private drivers and taxis.
You can also do 2-day trips from Tunis or Sousse for a short highlight visit to the Sahara desert.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Tunisia
✈️ Best time to visit the south of Tunisia?
The best times to travel to the South of Tunisia are during the cooler months from October to April.
🕒 How many days do you need in Southern Tunisia?
You need 3-5 days for a highlight trip, but a 7 day Tour is preferred for a deeper exploration.
🚙 Do I need a 4×4 to explore the Sahara?
A 4×4 vehicle is not strictly necessary to reach the edge of the Sahara, but it is highly recommended. For a safe experience, specialized 4×4 vehicles are preferred.
🛟 Is Southern Tunisia safe for travelers?
Yes, it’s generally safe for travelers. Always stay vigilant for pickpockets or scams & dress appropriately where needed (mosques). Just stay away from the border with Libya and Algeria due to high terrorism and kidnapping risks.
Wow, love your pictures!! Thanks for your tips! I traveled with friends some weeks ago and we visit almost every you mentioned here, many thanks for your tips!!
Nice to hear you enjoyes the south of Tunisia and that my tips have helped you!
Great must-do’s for the South of Tunisia. Such a varied landscape! The Star Wars film locations are out of this world.
Right? 😍 Loved this the most in the south of tunisia next to the sahara desert!