Discover the Tunisian Sahara: A Detailed Review of the 2-Day Douz & Ksar Ghilane Oasis Tour
Traveling through Tunisia offers a captivating blend of landscapes, culture, and adventure—and this 2-day tour to Douz and Ksar Ghilane provides just that. Hosted by Caravane du Sahara, this experience promises a mix of desert exploration, culture, and the thrill of sleeping under the stars in a Bedouin tent. We’ve looked into what makes this trip a compelling choice, along with some honest insights from past travelers.
What we love about this tour includes the chance to visit the iconic Ksar Ghilane oasis, the opportunity for camel and quad rides in the Sahara, and the authentic overnight camp under a Bedouin tent. The private Jeep transfers with an English-speaking guide make it feel personalized and smooth. However, some reviews mention that logistical issues—such as timing—can occasionally affect the overall experience. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see the Sahara’s vastness, enjoy cultural encounters in Berber villages, and don’t mind occasional minor inconveniences for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Key Points
- Authentic Sahara Experience: Sleep overnight in a Bedouin-style tent in the desert.
- Cultural Encounters: Visit Berber villages and underground homes, adding depth beyond the typical desert trip.
- Adventure Options: Camel rides, quad biking, and swimming in hot springs offer active choices.
- Professional Guide: An English-speaking guide ensures smooth communication and rich explanations.
- Value for Money: For around $234, you get two days of varied activities, transport, and meals.
- Some logistical hiccups: Past reviews note slight delays, but these rarely spoil the overall adventure.
Looking for more options in Djerba? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Day 1: From Djerba to the Sahara’s Heartland
The adventure begins early—around 6:30 am—with pickup from Djerba. The journey to the Sahara is an approximately full-day affair with several fascinating stops designed to introduce you to Berber culture and the unique landscape.
Ksar Hallouf marks the first stop, where you’ll explore the Ghorfas—traditional storage structures made of dry stone, once used to stock cereals and provisions. This spot offers a peek into Berber ingenuity, with some travelers noting that the visit provides a tangible connection to local history.
Next, the tour heads to Ksar Ghilane, a truly special oasis. Here you will find a hot water spring, which is perfect for a quick swim and relaxing after the morning drive. The oasis is surrounded by tall palms and a backdrop of rocky desert, making it an ideal spot for photos. You’ll also have the chance to ride camels or quads, adding an active element to the day. Lunch is included here, providing a well-earned break amid stunning scenery.
In the late afternoon, the group travels to Douz, the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where you’ll set up camp around 25 km into the dunes. Here, the bedouin-style tents are equipped with camp beds, sleeping bags, and blankets—all designed to make your overnight stay comfortable in the desert environment. The evening features a dinner in the camp, with some guests praising the quality of the meal as good or very good.
Day 2: Exploring Berber Villages and Matmata
The morning in the Sahara begins with a full breakfast at the camp, set against a desert sunrise. Afterward, you’ll visit three Berber villages: Tamazret, Matmata, and Toujane. These stops are especially interesting for those curious about local lifestyles.
Matmata is famous for its underground houses—a unique adaptation to desert living. Travelers often find these dwellings fascinating, and the tour includes a visit to a family living in such a home, offering a glimpse of daily life beyond tourist spots. You might also recognize the Star Wars set, known as Sidi Driss, which many have enjoyed seeing in person.
The tour wraps up with more exploration of Berber culture and some free time to absorb the atmosphere. The return trip to Djerba is scheduled for the late afternoon, with the experience ending around 6:30 pm.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s price, approximately $234.06 per person, covers quite a bit: breakfast, lunch, dinner, private transport, and all camping gear—including tents, beds, sleeping bags, and blankets. Mineral water is also provided, which is essential in desert conditions.
However, it’s important to note that tips are not included—a small but notable consideration in Tunisia’s hospitality culture. The tour is entirely private, meaning you won’t be sharing your experience with strangers, which appeals to many travelers seeking intimacy and flexibility.
Transportation & Comfort
The journey is made in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the long drives between Djerba, oasis stops, and Berber villages. The private Jeep allows your English-speaking guide to tailor explanations and ensure smooth navigation through the various sites.
Accommodations & Meals
Sleeping under the Bedouin tent is generally well-rated, with blankets and camp beds provided. Some travelers, like Nina, pointed out minor logistical issues—such as the team being late in preparing for the overnight trip, which slightly cut into the sunset’s view. Despite this, the overall experience in the desert was appreciated, especially the dinner and breakfast, which many found to be good or even memorable.
Authentic Experiences with Some Caveats
This tour offers authentic moments—riding camels, swimming in hot springs, and staying overnight under the stars. It’s ideal for adventure seekers and those interested in culture. The stops in Berber villages and underground houses add depth, making it more than just a desert ride.
That said, some reviews hint at logistical hiccups. For instance, the late setup for the overnight trip meant missing some sunset views, and occasional air in the dunes was noted. One reviewer mentioned the dunes had about 5 meters of height, with green vegetation, which might surprise travelers expecting endless rolling dunes.
The Value of This Tour
At its price point, the tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, accommodation, and meals—making it a solid pick for those wanting a hassle-free Sahara experience. The private guide adds value through personalized explanations, especially if you’re keen to learn about local Berber culture.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventure travelers who don’t mind minor logistical issues and are eager to explore the Sahara beyond standard day trips. It’s perfect if you want overnight camping, a cultural touchstone with Berber villages, and a private guide to enhance the journey. If you’re seeking a relaxing, perfectly organized tour with zero hiccups, you might want to weigh the reviews about slight delays.
FAQs
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the long drives between Djerba, oasis stops, and Berber villages.
What does the overnight stay include?
You’ll sleep in a Bedouin-style tent with camp beds, blankets, and sleeping bags provided. The experience aims to mimic traditional desert life, with a focus on authenticity.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and a dinner in the camp. Past travelers have rated the meals as good, with some describing the dinner and breakfast as particularly satisfying.
What activities can I do in the Sahara?
Camel rides and quad biking are offered, giving you options to explore the dunes actively. Swimming in the hot spring at Ksar Ghilane is also a highlight.
Are there any logistical issues to be aware of?
Some reviews mention the team being slightly late in preparing for the overnight, which might affect sunset views. It’s wise to be flexible and prepared for minor delays.
Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, there’s some flexibility. However, major modifications may depend on the tour operator’s arrangements.
Final Thoughts
This 2-day tour to Douz and Ksar Ghilane delivers a well-rounded Sahara adventure filled with cultural insights, active pursuits, and the thrill of sleeping under the stars. It balances the practicality of transport and accommodation with the authentic charm of Berber villages and desert landscapes.
It’s a good fit for travelers craving a more immersive Sahara experience—especially if they’re comfortable with minor logistical quirks. The private guide, cultural stops, and camping adventure make it a memorable escape into Tunisia’s desert heart.
For those seeking a straightforward, engaging Sahara journey with a touch of local culture—and ready to embrace the occasional bump in the road—this tour offers solid value and plenty of authentic moments.
Remember: Packing layers, sun protection, and a good camera will help you make the most of this adventure. Prepare for a journey that combines comfort with a touch of rugged desert life, and you’ll leave with stories to tell for years.