2 Days Private to Ksar Ghilan and Chenini night in Bivouac

A deep dive into Tunisia’s desert and mountain villages, this 2-day private tour offers a blend of culture and adventure. From wandering lively markets to camping under the stars in the Sahara, it’s a curated experience designed to bring the country’s traditions and landscapes alive.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private setting ensures a personalized adventure. Second, the chance to camp overnight in a desert bivouac under the night sky is truly special. Lastly, the mix of cultural sites and active fun—like camel rides and quad biking—caters well to families and explorers alike.

One possible consideration? The tour’s schedule is quite packed, with multiple stops and activities that might feel rushed to some travelers. If you prefer a slower pace or more downtime, this might be a good thing to keep in mind.

Ideal for those who love a bit of everything—culture, adventure, and authentic experiences—this tour is especially well-suited for families, small groups, or couples eager to explore Tunisia beyond the usual spots.

Key Points

• Private experience offers tailored, intimate adventures away from crowds.
• Cultural immersion with visits to Berber villages, markets, and Ksar Hadada (Star Wars fans will love this).
• Active fun includes swimming in hot springs, camel rides, and quad biking.
• Overnight desert bivouac promises a memorable night under the stars with a wood-fired dinner and campfire music.
• Comprehensive itinerary balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and adventure activities.
• Good value for the price, considering the inclusion of meals, guided visits, and unique overnight experience.

Introduction: Exploring Tunisia’s Hidden Corners in Comfort and Style

This 2-day private tour from Djerba opens a window into Tunisia’s less-trodden paths — a chance to explore both its historical villages and stunning desert landscapes. Designed for travelers seeking an authentic, personalized experience, it takes you from lively markets to tranquil springs, culminating in a night spent beneath the stars in a Sahara bivouac.

What we love about this experience is how it combines cultural discovery with adventurous activities. The private nature means you can go at your own pace, ask questions, and enjoy the journey with your family or friends without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of meals, guided visits, and some optional activities like quad biking adds real value.

A slight caveat: with so many stops packed into just two days, you may find the schedule quite full. If you prefer slow mornings or an unstructured pace, this tour could feel a bit intense. Nevertheless, for those eager to see a broad swath of Tunisia’s highlights, it hits the sweet spot.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, hands-on activities, and the thrill of sleeping under the desert sky—truly a bucket-list experience.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour’s charm lies in its carefully curated combination of culture, adventure, and nature. It’s not just a sightseeing trip but a chance to connect with Tunisia’s traditions, landscapes, and local life.

Private and Personalized

The private aspect ensures that you don’t share your experience with strangers, offering more flexibility and a tailored feel. From pickup to the final drop-off, your group is the only one on the journey, making it perfect for families or small groups who want an intimate adventure.

Cultural Highlights

You’ll visit Tataouine’s lively souk, bursting with spices, fruits, and local cakes like gazelle horns—small details that reveal local flavors and customs. The guided tour of Chenini, an ancient Berber village, promises insight into traditional ways of life and architecture. The visit to Ksar Hadada, a Star Wars filming location, adds a pop culture twist that fans will appreciate.

Adventure and Relaxation

The afternoon at Ksar Ghilane combines relaxation with activity: a swim in hot springs, camel rides, and quad biking. These optional activities allow you to choose whether to relax or get your adrenaline going. Plus, ending the day in a desert camp for the night offers a completely different perspective—an authentic Sahara experience with a campfire, music, and star-gazing.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Salt Lake, Tataouine, Chenini, and Ksar Ghilane

Stop at Neffatia Salt Lake
The journey begins with a quick stop at the edge of a salt lake. While only 30 minutes with free admission, it provides an excellent photo opportunity and sets the tone with the stark, shimmering landscape.

Tataouine Market
Next, a two-hour exploration of Tataouine’s bustling souk. You’ll see locals buying and selling everything from fresh produce to spices, with the vibrant atmosphere being a highlight. The reviewer noted the market as a “meeting place for villagers coming from far away,” which captures the authentic feel of this stop.

Chenini Village
A three-hour guided walk through this ancient Berber site offers a window into traditional architecture and local life. The guide provides in-depth stories about the heritage and history of the area. Some visitors appreciated the opportunity to hear local tales and discover the significance of the ksar as a storage and defense structure.

Ksar Ghilane Oasis
Arriving mid-afternoon, the contrast is striking: a lush oasis amidst ocher-colored sands. Here, you can relax in hot springs, a treat after a day of walking. Optional activities like camel rides or quad biking are available, adding an element of fun and adventure. The reviewer loved the opportunity to “swim in the spring” and experience a different side of desert life.

Day 2: Berber Villages, Star Wars, and Djerba Return

Stop at Tamezret
A quick visit to this perched Berber village offers scenic views and a chance to relax with a traditional herbal tea—roses and rosemary are typical. The highlight, according to some, is soaking in the peaceful mountain ambiance.

Matmata and Star Wars Filming Location
A major draw for many is the visit to the famous troglodyte dwellings of Matmata. You’ll get to see homes dug into the earth and experience local hospitality by visiting a Berber family’s home. The guide explains how these underground homes are built, giving insight into their practicality and tradition.

The highlight for Star Wars fans is, of course, the Sidi Driss hotel, where scenes from the original movies were filmed. A two-hour stop includes a troglodyte lunch, allowing you to taste local cuisine in an authentic setting. One reviewer mentioned the experience as “being the host of a Berber family,” which adds a personal touch.

Toujane Village
A brief stop to admire this semi-troglodyte village offers more scenic views and a chance to take photos of traditional architecture.

Ferry to Djerba
Concluding the trip, the group takes a ferry back to Djerba Island, arriving relaxed and ready to unwind. The one-hour transfer is straightforward and signals the end of an action-packed itinerary.

Meals and Activities: What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the dinner being in the desert after setting up the bivouac. Sharing a wood-fired dinner around the campfire provides a memorable end to day one—think hot, freshly cooked food under the stars, with some lively music and stories.

Optional activities like quad biking and dromedary rides cost extra, with a typical charge of €30 for 40 minutes on a quad or €10 per camel for an hour. These options allow for added adventure but are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

Tipping is not included, but it’s customary to tip guides and drivers if you feel they added value.

The Unique Desert Bivouac Experience

One of the most compelling aspects is the night in a desert tent, sleeping under a blanket of stars. The camp setup is private, ensuring you won’t be sharing it with strangers, creating a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The dinner is cooked over a wood fire, enhancing the authenticity, while the evening around the campfire—songs, stories, and music—makes for a truly memorable experience. The reviewer described it as a gathering “for the family, friends, or couples,” emphasizing its versatility.

The campsite is set two hours into the desert, offering seclusion and breathtaking views of the starry sky. It’s an experience that balances adventure with tranquility, perfect for disconnecting from daily life.

Practical Details and Tips

Transport and Timing: The tour starts early, at 6:30 am, with pickup from your hotel in Djerba. The transportation is private, providing comfort and flexibility. The full two days are well-paced but packed, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and active moments.

Price and Value: At approximately $258 per person, the tour includes guided visits, meals, and a unique overnight experience. Considering the personalized service, cultural depth, and activities, this represents good value for those wanting an immersive adventure.

Booking and Cancellation: The experience is bookable with at least 5 days’ notice and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, making it flexible for planning.

Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility, as much of the sightseeing involves walking and gentle exploring.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers craving an authentic Tunisian adventure that mixes cultural sites with outdoor fun. It suits families with children, couples, or small groups who want a private, flexible itinerary. If you enjoy learning about local traditions, exploring scenic villages, and sleeping under the stars, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or dislike early starts, you might find the schedule a bit tight. It’s perfect for those eager to maximize their time and see a broad spectrum of what Tunisia offers in just two days.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is private, and many activities like visiting villages, markets, and the desert are family-friendly. Optional activities such as camel and quad rides are available, so you can choose based on your children’s comfort levels.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes private transportation, guided visits, all meals (dinner, breakfast, and lunch), and the overnight desert bivouac—an authentic camping experience in the Sahara.

Are activities like quad biking and camel riding free?
No, these are optional extras and cost an additional €30 for quad biking and €10 per camel for an hour. You can decide whether to partake.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about five days ahead, but booking earlier is recommended to secure availability, especially during peak seasons.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, layers for the desert heat, and sturdy shoes are advisable. Don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for daytime activities, and warm clothes for the desert night.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This 2-day private tour from Djerba offers a well-balanced mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation in Tunisia’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a family seeking fun, or a couple looking for a romantic desert night, it promises a memorable escape filled with authentic moments.