2-Day Tunisian Sahara Tour with Food & Stay from Hammamet

Exploring the 2-Day Tunisian Sahara Tour from Hammamet: An Honest Review

Taking a two-day trip through southern Tunisia offers a chance to see some of the most fascinating sights — from ancient Roman ruins and Star Wars film sets to the stunning Sahara dunes. While this tour promises a packed itinerary and lots of adventures, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for before booking.

What we love about this experience is the rich diversity of sites, the knowledgeable guides, and the value for money — especially given all the included meals and accommodation. That said, some travelers might find the long coach rides and tight schedule a bit exhausting or rushed.

This tour is best suited for those who want a short but immersive overview of Tunisia’s highlights, are okay with spending time on the road, and love a mix of history, natural beauty, and pop culture. If you’re after a relaxing, slow-paced trip, this might be less ideal. But if you’re eager to tick off several iconic sights and have an appetite for adventure, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Valuable experience for travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive tour of southern Tunisia.
• Expert guides help bring the sites and stories to life.
• Long travel distances mean a lot of time in transit, which could feel tiring.
• Authentic meals and local stays add to the genuine experience.
• Highlights include El Jem, Matmata, Douz, and the Star Wars set.
• Mixed reviews on the hotel quality and the pace of activities, so be prepared for some variability.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Day 1: Roman Ruins, Troglodyte Homes, and Desert Nights

Your journey kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel in Hammamet around 6:30 am. The first stop — El Jem’s Colosseum — is a highlight. This Roman amphitheater is remarkably well-preserved and offers a glimpse into ancient entertainment. According to travelers, the experience is enhanced by the guide’s storytelling, with one reviewer noting the 2-hour visit was “well organized,” and they appreciated the admission ticket included which saved hassle.

Next, you head to Matmata, where underground homes carved into the earth have featured in Star Wars films. Guests often comment on the guided tour of these troglodyte dwellings, with one reviewer sharing how they enjoyed exploring the centuries-old underground homes, and appreciated the local lunch—a chance to taste traditional Tunisian cuisine in a relaxed setting.

The afternoon takes you to Douz, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara.” The town, surrounded by date palms, provides a peaceful setting for dinner and an overnight stay. Several reviews praise the comfortable hotel, though some mention the hotel’s facilities aren’t the newest. Optional camel or carriage rides are available, and travelers generally love these activities for the authentic desert experience.

Day 2: Desert Adventures, Star Wars Sets, and Historic Kairouan

The second day begins with a hearty breakfast before crossing the spectacular Chott El Jerid, a massive salt lake that seems to stretch endlessly. Many reviewers mention how surreal the mirage-like views are, making it a perfect photo stop.

From there, you hop into a 4×4 for a scenic ride to the Star Wars film set at Onk Jemal. The set, built for the iconic movie series, is described as “run down” by some travelers, though others found it fascinating to see the actual filming locations. The ride offers a taste of the desert terrain and gives fans a chance to see a piece of cinematic history.

Lunch in Gafsa offers a break from the constant travel, and most reviews mention the local charm of this regional hub. The tour concludes with a quick photo stop in Kairouan, a city renowned for its beautiful mosques and vibrant medina. Reviewers often highlight the history and architecture, making it a fitting end to the journey.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Traveling in a comfortable Land Cruiser 4X4, groups are typically kept to around 50 travelers, which strikes a balance between social atmosphere and manageable logistics. Many reviews note the professionalism of the driver and guide, often mentioning Mr. Mo as a standout—helpful, friendly, and full of interesting stories.

The long coach rides—roughly 750 miles total—are the biggest part of the journey, with some guests describing the experience as “exhausting” but still “worth it” for the sights seen. The timing can feel tight; some reviews point out that time at each attraction is limited, especially at El Jem and the Star Wars set, but this is partly due to the packed schedule.

Meals and Accommodation

Meals include two full lunches, breakfast, and dinner on the first night. Many guests praise the quality of the food, particularly the dinner buffet, which is described as delicious and filling. Vegetarian options can be arranged, and all meals are Halal, fitting local customs.

The hotel in Douz varies between four-star and high-quality three-star, with some reviews mentioning dated facilities or lack of amenities like water or proper air conditioning. Still, most travelers appreciate the authentic experience and the chance to rest before the next day’s adventures.

Highlights and Authentic Experiences

The Roman amphitheater at El Jem is a standout, offering a tangible link to history. Guides often enhance the visit with engaging stories, making the ruins come alive.

The troglodyte houses in Matmata are a unique sight—an ancient way of living that continues today. The underground dwellings, carved into the earth, keep residents cool in the summer heat, and many visitors find them surprisingly cozy.

The desert landscape delivers breathtaking views—dunes, mirages, and starry nights. The camel or carriage rides are generally well-received, though some reviewers suggest the rides could be longer or more authentic, noting that some rides are short or slightly rushed.

The Star Wars film set at Onk Jemal provides a fun peek into the making of the famous movies, though some guests were surprised at how dilapidated parts of the set appeared, which can be a bit of a disappointment for fans expecting a more pristine location.

Finally, the city of Kairouan offers a peaceful conclusion, with its grand mosques and lively medina providing excellent photo opportunities and a feel of traditional Islam’s heartland.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Prepare for long travel days: Expect roughly 750 miles over two days, so pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the coach rides.
• Book early: This tour is popular and often booked a month in advance, so secure your spot early.
• Bring a camera: The scenery, ruins, and desert landscapes are incredibly photogenic.
• Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes: Especially for walking around ruins and the desert.
• Consider your hotel expectations: While most reviews find the accommodations acceptable, some mention the hotel’s age and facilities.
• Optional activities: Camel rides cost around EUR 15, so bring cash if you want to participate.

Is This Tour Worth It?

This 2-day tour hits a sweet spot for those wanting to get a broad taste of southern Tunisia without breaking the bank. The value for money is evident with included meals, hotel stays, and guided tours.

While the long travel distances and tight schedule might challenge those who prefer slower-paced trips, the variety of sights—from Roman ruins to desert scenery and film sets—makes it a memorable experience. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey more engaging.

The quality of hotels varies, and some guests noted that certain sites like the Star Wars set felt a bit neglected, but overall, the tour balances adventure, culture, and fun. Expect to come away with a deeper appreciation for Tunisia’s diverse landscapes and a collection of stories to share.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see as much as possible in just two days. It’s perfect for history buffs, film fans, or anyone wanting to step outside the typical tourist trail with guided support.

Those comfortable with long coach rides and a somewhat packed schedule will find this tour rewarding, especially if they want a cost-effective way to cover many key sites. Family groups or solo travelers looking for camaraderie and authentic experiences will also appreciate the mix of activities.

If you’re after luxury and relaxation, or prefer more time at each location, you might want to consider a slower, more boutique-style tour.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it easy to start your adventure hassle-free.

Are meals included, and do they cater to different diets?
Meals—breakfast, dinner, and two full lunches—are included. Vegetarian options can be requested, and all meals are Halal.

What kind of transportation is used?
Travel is in a Land Cruiser 4X4, which is comfortable and suitable for desert terrain.

How long are the coach rides?
Expect around 12 hours of travel over the two days, covering approximately 750 miles.

Can I participate in optional activities like camel rides?
Yes, camel rides are available for about EUR 15 per person. Cash is recommended to pay for extras.

Is hotel accommodation comfortable?
Most guests find the hotels acceptable, though some mention they’re dated or basic. The focus is more on location and authenticity than luxury.

To sum it up, this 2-day tour from Hammamet offers a lively, varied look at Tunisia’s history, desert landscapes, and pop culture. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to see multiple highlights in a short period, willing to endure some long days in transit, and enthusiastic about authentic experiences. With knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and unforgettable scenery, it promises an adventure worth considering—just pack some patience and your camera!