3DAYS 4×4 safari from Sousse/Hammamet/Tunis 100km deep in desert camp

Planning a trip to Tunisia and craving an authentic adventure that combines history, nature, and a touch of Hollywood magic? This 3-day private 4×4 safari promises an exhilarating journey through some of Tunisia’s most iconic sites, from ancient ruins to sweeping salt flats, all within a comfy, well-organized package. While it’s not your typical sightseeing tour, it’s packed with unique experiences that appeal to those eager to explore off the beaten path.

What we particularly like about this tour are the personalized touches—pickups from multiple locations, the flexibility of a private guide, and the chance to see where Star Wars was filmed. The desert camp stay offering a true night under the stars, combined with delicious local meals, makes this a memorable escape. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention certain missing steps or the need for extra fees for activities like camel riding or carriage rides, so managing expectations is key.

This tour is perfect for adventurers, film fans, and culture lovers who want a blend of history, scenic beauty, and desert life—all wrapped into one well-paced excursion. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable with off-road driving and eager to experience Tunisia’s wild landscapes firsthand.

Key Points

• Customized private experience ensures flexible pacing and personal attention.
• Includes desert camp stay for a true overnight experience in the oasis.
• Highlights filming locations from Star Wars and iconic desert scenery.
• Offers camel rides, salt lakes, and mountain visits for diverse sights.
• All logistics handled by experienced guides and drivers, saving stress.
• Optional activities available at extra costs, like ATV rides and carriage excursions.

Exploring Tunisia’s Desert and Cultural Heritage

This safari offers a deep dive into Tunisia’s landscape, history, and pop culture, with a carefully curated itinerary that balances sightseeing and adventure. The journey kicks off with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Amphitheatre D’el Jem, the most intact Roman amphitheater in Africa. This site, dating from the 2nd century AD, is a grand reminder of Roman engineering and entertainment. Our guide will share facts about its history and significance, enriching the visit beyond just snapping photos.

Next, driving into the southern regions, the tour takes you to Matmata, famous for its underground cave dwellings. These troglodyte homes look surreal—almost like walking on a moon landscape. Reviewers highlight the viewpoint overlooking the lunar terrain as a favorite spot, along with the chance to visit Sidi Driss, a Star Wars filming location. The guide shared that the local guides here are quite knowledgeable, giving visitors a real sense of how the Berber communities live today.

The stop at Tamezret is brief but memorable, offering a taste of local culture with mint tea, honey-covered cakes, and panoramic views of a Berber village. These moments provide a genuine feel of rural Tunisia, far from tourist-heavy cities.

Day 2: From Salt Lakes to Desert Towns

The second day’s highlight is visiting Ksar Hadada, a traditional Berber fortified granary and another Star Wars filming site. The camera-friendly architecture makes for stunning photos, and the guide’s insights help you appreciate its historical importance.

Following that, you’ll trek to Chenini, an ancient Berber village perched on a hilltop. The easy walk around the old houses offers a glimpse into traditional mountain life, paired with spectacular mountain views. It’s a peaceful, slow-paced visit that allows for relaxation and photo opportunities.

The trip then heads into the Sahara with a visit to Douz, often called the “desert capital” of Tunisia. Here, you can opt for an extra paid camel ride to truly feel the desert’s vastness or simply enjoy the desert vistas. Reviewers mention that the endless sea of sand is genuinely breathtaking and evokes a sense of adventure.

The next stop at Chott El Jerid, the largest salt lake in North Africa, provides an almost surreal landscape—completely flat and shimmering in the sun. It’s a photographer’s dream, and visitors often find the vast emptiness oddly captivating.

Tozeur, a lush oasis town, offers a relaxed evening and optional carriage rides. The hotel stay here is conveniently located at the edge of the oasis, giving easy access to explore on foot or relax after a day of travel.

Day 3: Film Sets, Mountain Oases, and Off-Roading

The final day is packed with cinematic scenery and mountain adventures. First, the Decor Star Wars location in the middle of the desert is an immediate hit for fans. The backdrop, used in the original series, is remarkably well-preserved and makes for a memorable photo stop.

Next, the Ong Jmel mountain resembles a sitting camel—an odd but fascinating natural formation that’s been used as scenery in films like The English Patient. The off-road aspect of this visit is especially thrilling, as you’ll be riding over rugged terrain.

Following that, dune riding and a crazy salt lake off-road adventure offer adrenaline-fueled fun. Reviewers appreciated the life-changing off-road experience and the chance to see Tunisia’s desert from a different perspective.

The Chott el Gharsa salt lake provides a lunar-like landscape, perfect for those striking photos and a bit of playful off-roading.

Finally, the tour takes you to Chebika and Tamerza Canyon, two of Tunisia’s most beautiful mountain oases. These spots are tranquil, with walking trails that reward visitors with views of waterfalls and lush greenery. The stop at Kairouan for a quick peek at the mosque and some souvenir shopping caps off the trip.

Transport, Accommodation, and Inclusions

Traveling in a brand-new, 7-seater 4WD, the journey is comfortable, even through rougher terrains. The private group setting maximizes flexibility, allowing you to spend more time at your favorite spots or skip over less interesting ones.

The two nights of accommodation are located at well-chosen spots—starting from hotels near the desert camps and oasis towns. Meals are included (breakfasts, dinners, and lunches), giving you a taste of local cuisine without additional hassle. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sousse, Hammamet, or Tunis, which is a huge plus for convenience.

Extras like camel rides, carriage rides in the oasis, or ATV adventures are available at additional costs, giving you options to customize your experience. The price of $739.97 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—especially given the private nature of the tour, the accommodation, and multiple guided stops.

Authentic Reviews Provide Added Perspective

One reviewer praised the “fantastic experience,” highlighting the guide’s knowledge and the trustworthy driver, who was said to be experienced in navigating remote areas. The brand-new vehicle was appreciated, along with the chance to chase sunsets over the Sahara, a truly magical moment.

Another reviewer pointed out that the guides and drivers were very attentive and friendly, making the trip enjoyable. However, a negative note was about some missing steps in the itinerary, which highlights the importance of clarifying exactly what’s included and what might require extra payment.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Since activities like camel riding and carriage rides are extra paid, it’s best to decide beforehand if these are worth the additional cost.
• The off-road segments are quite bumpy, so packing comfortable, sturdy shoes and being prepared for some motion is wise.
• The desert camp offers a genuine night under the stars, but bring layers—desert nights can get chilly.
• The private tour setup means you can tailor your pace, but it’s good to be prepared for a full, active schedule over three days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for adventurers craving authentic desert experiences, film fans wanting to see iconic locations, or nature lovers interested in Tunisia’s diverse landscapes. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind off-road driving and enjoy guided tours with a personal touch.

Those looking for a luxurious, all-inclusive tour might find some activities extra, but for the price, you gain a comprehensive, well-organized adventure that hits many highlights.

This 3-day private 4×4 safari offers a compelling mix of history, adventure, and cinematic scenery, making it a standout experience in Tunisia. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a comfortable itinerary, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting a deeper connection with Tunisia’s wild side.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, off-beat destinations, and the chance to stay overnight in the desert. The inclusion of iconic film locations and diverse landscapes ensures there’s plenty to marvel at, while the flexible schedule caters to your pace.

If you’re ready to swap city sightseeing for desert dunes, this tour is a great way to explore Tunisia’s natural beauty and cultural gems in just three packed days.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Sousse, Hammamet, or Tunis are included, making logistics easier.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $739.97 per person. This includes accommodation, most meals, and guided stops.

Are activities like camel riding included?
Camel riding is optional and paid separately at around 10 Euro, along with other extras like carriage rides or ATV adventures.

How many days does the tour last?
It’s a three-day experience, with an estimated duration of about 3 days.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Star Wars filming locations, salt lakes, desert camps, mountain oases, and off-road dune rides.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Since it’s a private experience for your group, it’s flexible and suitable for families or solo travelers seeking a personalized adventure.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A brand-new 7-seater 4WD LC76 ensures comfortable and reliable transportation across rugged terrains.

How physically demanding is the trip?
Expect some walking, off-road driving, and possibly camel rides. It’s designed to be engaging but not overly strenuous.

This detailed and balanced review helps you understand what to expect from this unique Tunisian safari and determine if it fits your travel style. Happy adventuring!