2Days 4×4 safari from Sousse/Hammamet/Tunis, night 100km deep in Sahara desert

Travelers looking for an adventure that combines history, stunning scenery, and authentic local culture will find this 2-day, 1-night desert safari from Sousse to be a compelling option. This tour promises a well-rounded experience—balancing thrilling off-road driving, cultural visits, and an overnight stay in traditional tents amid the dunes.

What we love about this journey is the chance to see some of Tunisia’s most iconic sights, like the Roman amphitheater of El Jem, and to spend a night in the desert, gazing at the stars. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation add to its appeal. However, be prepared for many hours of driving, which might not suit everyone. This trip works best for those eager to experience authentic Sahara life, stunning landscapes, and historical sites in a compact, two-day format.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of sand dunes, mountains, and oases.
• Cultural highlights include Roman ruins, Berber villages, and Star Wars filming locations.
• Activities like camel riding and off-road driving add fun and adventure.
• Overnight stay in a desert tent offers a memorable night under the stars.
• Comprehensive package includes transport, meals, and guides, offering good value.
• Ideal for those seeking an active, authentic desert experience with cultural insights.

What to Expect from the 2-Day Sahara Safari

This tour is a deep dive into Tunisia’s desert landscapes combined with cultural sights, designed with travelers who want more than just a scenic drive. It’s a well-structured itinerary that balances sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, making it suitable for those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and lively local culture.

The Journey Begins: Day 1

The adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup in Sousse, Hammamet, or Tunis, ensuring a smooth start. You’ll be transported in a comfortable, modern 4×4, ready to tackle the rugged terrain. The first major stop is the Amphitheatre D’el Jem, the best-preserved Roman amphitheater in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide will provide insights into its historical significance—an impressive introduction to Tunisia’s ancient past.

Next, the itinerary includes a visit to an underground cave house, a must-see for visitors interested in local architecture and lifestyle. From here, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the moon-like landscape at a viewpoint, and get to visit Sidi Driss, a filming location from Star Wars, which adds a fun pop culture twist. Lunch features traditional Tunisian dishes like brick and couscous, giving you a taste of local flavors.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore a deserted Berber village—a quiet, authentic spot that offers insight into traditional lifestyles. The highlight here is the visit to a famous oasis, about 100 km into the Sahara, where reddish sands and a pond create a surprisingly lush stop. If you’re up for it (additional cost applies), you can try quad riding on the dunes, adding a dash of adrenaline before settling into a night in a desert tent.

Night in the Sahara

Spending a night under the stars is a core feature of this tour. The tents are typically simple, but comfortable enough for a memorable experience. According to one reviewer, “It was really great! The tour guide & driver were so kind. Be prepared for many hours of driving, but it was worth it.” The night allows for genuine desert tranquility, away from city lights, perfect for star gazing and appreciating the silence of the dunes.

Day 2: Cultural and Scenic Highlights

The second day takes you back into history, with visits to Ksar Hadada and Chenini, two notable Berber sites. Ksar Hadada is a photogenic fortified granary and another Star Wars filming location. Chenini, a centuries-old Berber village, is nestled on a mountain, offering easy walking and panoramic views. Travelers can relax with a cup of coffee while taking in the breathtaking vistas.

The tour continues with a visit to the ruins of ancient grain warehouses in Medenine, giving a glimpse into traditional Tunisian storage practices. A brief stop at the viewpoint of Toujane offers a lovely photo opportunity and a chance to experience more local culture.

The day ends in Matmata, famous for its underground hotel, Sidi Driss, where you’ll enjoy lunch. This site gained fame from the Star Wars saga, with its troglodyte dwellings offering a unique glimpse into Berber architecture. After lunch, the tour concludes with a return transfer to your hotel.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The package includes one night in a tent, meals (breakfast, dinner, two lunches), hotel pickup & drop-off, and the guiding service. It’s designed to offer value for money, especially considering the number of sites visited and activities included.

Additional costs include entrance fees (~5 Euro), drinks, and optional activities like camel riding (10 Euro) or ATV riding (from 20 Euro). It’s wise to budget for these extras if you want to maximize your experience.

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is in a modern, well-maintained 4×4 vehicle, which is appreciated by reviewers for its comfort and reliability. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more tailored experience and flexibility with timing.

Authentic Experiences and Local Insights

Reviewers emphasize the guides’ knowledgeability—they often go beyond basic info, sharing local anecdotes and cultural insights. One reviewer noted, “The guide explained facts and details about the amphitheater,” which made the visit much more engaging.

The chance to interact with local Berbers during visits offers an authentic glimpse into indigenous life. The stunning views from mountain villages like Chenini and Toujane are frequently highlighted as memorable highlights—perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

The Value of the Tour

At $435.71 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances sightseeing, activities, and culture. When you consider the included transport, meals, guides, and overnight stay, it compares favorably to other desert excursions. Travelers frequently mention good value for money, especially given the chance to visit multiple sites in two days.

The reviews praise the professionalism of the guides, modern vehicles, and the memorable night in the desert. However, some note that long hours of driving can be tiring, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full-on adventure rather than a relaxed sightseeing day.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see a mixture of history, culture, and natural beauty. It suits those who don’t mind a full schedule and some hours on the road, as the itinerary is packed with stops. Families with older children, history buffs, and anyone wanting an authentic desert experience will find this trip rewarding.

If you’re looking for a luxury, leisurely trip, or have very young children, you might want to consider a different option. But for those craving a balanced, action-packed journey into Tunisia’s Sahara, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.

How long is the overall trip? The tour runs for approximately two days, covering multiple sites and activities.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast, dinner, and two lunches are part of the package.

Can I participate in activities like quad riding or camel riding? Quad riding is optional and paid separately (from 20 Euro). Camel riding is also available for an extra 10 Euro.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children aged 8 and under, largely due to the long hours of driving and outdoor activities.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothing, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for the stunning scenery. Consider extra cash for optional activities.

How physically demanding is the tour? Some walking is involved, especially at Chenini and Toujane, but it’s generally accessible for most travelers in good health.

Is the tour operated by a multilingual guide? Yes, most travelers can participate, and guides often speak multiple languages.

What’s the cancellation policy? Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if plans change.

How many people typically book this tour? On average, travelers book about 33 days in advance, indicating steady interest and good availability.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Sahara safari from Sousse offers a rich mix of history, adventure, and authentic desert life. From exploring ancient Roman ruins to spending a night under the stars in a traditional tent, it’s a well-rounded experience for those eager to see Tunisia’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage in a compact trip.

The guides’ expertise and the comfort of modern transportation stand out as major plus points, along with the chance to visit star-studded filming locations and Berber villages. While the long hours of driving are not for everyone, travelers prepared for an active, immersive journey will find this tour highly rewarding.

Ideal for adventurous spirits, history lovers, and culture seekers, this tour strikes a good balance between fun activities, scenic stops, and cultural insights, making it a memorable escape into the heart of Tunisia’s Sahara.