Imagine spending a night under the stars in a Bedouin-style tent, surrounded by towering sand dunes and ancient ruins. That’s exactly what this 2-day tour in southern Tunisia promises – a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty that feels both adventurous and deeply authentic.
We’re here to share what makes this trip stand out: from the knowledgeable guides with impressive local insights, to the breathtaking views you’ll encounter. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of travel and some optional activities like quad biking and camel rides, so be prepared for a full-immersion experience. Overall, it’s best suited for those craving an adventure that combines cultural discovery with the magic of the Sahara.
Key Points
- Authentic experiences with local Bedouin tents and desert scenery
- Rich cultural insights from experienced guides who are passionate and knowledgeable
- Stunning landscapes including dunes, oasis, troglodyte villages, and ancient ruins
- Well-organized itinerary ensuring a smooth and rewarding journey
- Optional activities such as camel rides and quad biking for added fun
- Good value considering the included meals, overnight stay, and guided visits
An Overview of the Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive look at southern Tunisia, blending historical sites, traditional villages, and the iconic Sahara dunes in a two-day adventure. It’s designed for travelers eager to experience the real, unfiltered Tunisia beyond the usual tourist spots.
One of the main highlights is the opportunity to stay overnight in a Bedouin camp, experiencing the desert’s tranquility under a starry sky. The inclusion of cultural stops, stunning photo moments, and optional adrenaline rushes like quad biking make this experience both rich and lively.
Looking for more options in Djerba? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Itinerary
Day 1: From Djerba to the Desert Oasis
Starting early at 7:00 am, the journey begins with a stop at the Chaussee Romaine Djerba. Built by the Romans in the 2nd century, it’s a quick 20-minute visit but offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient engineering that connected Zarzis to Djerba. It’s a free stop, yet it sets a historical tone for the day.
Next, a trip to Tataouine introduces you to a charming city famous for its regional pastries, notably gazelle horns. As one reviewer pointed out, exploring Tataouine really helps you soak up its distinctive atmosphere, with local flavors and scenery adding authenticity.
The highlight of this day is Chenini, a troglodyte village carved into the mountains, where traditional Berber houses are built into the landscape. Expect to walk through narrow passageways and learn about ancient living styles. Several reviews mention how guide Fahmi shared social insights along with the sights, adding depth to the visit.
A brief photo stop at Guermassa offers a change of pace — perfect for capturing the striking landscape and creating memorable images. It’s a quick 15-minute break, but it’s enough to appreciate the beauty of the region.
As the afternoon approaches, your route shifts toward Ksar Ghilane, crossing stony desert terrain to reach this lush oasis. The landscape transforms from rugged stones to a vibrant green oasis, complete with hot springs — a prime spot for relaxation after a long day of travel.
Optional activities here include camel rides or quad biking to the Roman fort ruins, which many find to be a highlight. One reviewer noted the optional quad trip at €30 and camel ride at €15, adding a fun, adventurous element to the experience.
The evening begins with a scenic 4×4 drive to Campement Zmela, where you’re greeted by a sunset over the dunes — a moment many describe as unforgettable. Dinner is served in traditional Bedouin tents, accompanied by the sounds of the desert, making it a truly unique overnight stay.
Day 2: Exploring Berber Villages and Desert Scenery
The next morning, the tour continues with a visit to Tamezret, a small Berber village famed for its dramatic erosional landscapes. Reviewers appreciated the spectacular views and the cultural richness of this stop, which offers a peaceful contrast to the desert.
Next, you’ll head to Matmata, known for its lunar-like landscape and troglodyte dwellings. This location gained fame through Star Wars, providing a fun and educational opportunity to see how local Berbers live. Travelers often mention how enthusiastic guides explain the traditional lifestyle, making the visit both interesting and immersive.
A brief stop at Escale de Toujane allows for panoramic photos of the surrounding hills and traditional settlements. It’s a perfect spot for a quick rest and photo collection before heading back.
The journey concludes with a relaxed return, and many reviews highlight how well organized and rewarding the experience was. One traveler stated it was “very well organized and very rewarding,” with guides like Mahmoud and drivers like Hichem earning praise for their professionalism and friendliness.
Transportation and Group Size
This tour is conducted as a private experience, allowing for a more personalized and flexible journey. The transportation mainly involves comfortable 4×4 vehicles, which reviewers repeatedly praised for their safety and reliability. With pickup offered from Djerba, the logistics are straightforward, easing worries about planning multiple transfers.
The tour lasts approximately two days, but travelers often find that the pace is just right — enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.
The Value and What’s Included
Priced at $254.75 per person, this tour provides a lot for the cost. Meals are included — breakfast, lunch (two times), and dinner — which helps to streamline the experience and avoid extra expenses. The overnight stay in Bedouin tents is another significant highlight, offering a genuine desert experience that’s often reserved for more expensive packages.
While drinks, tips, and additional activities like visits to Tisavar fort by quad (€30) or camel (€15) are not included, the overall value remains high considering the rich itinerary and culture.
Authenticity and Personal Touch
This tour stands out because of the knowledgeable guides who go beyond surface-level explanations, sharing social and cultural insights that deepen your understanding of the region. Multiple reviewers praised guides like Fahmi, Yoser, Mahmoud, and Sarah, noting their passion and ability to engage both adults and children alike.
The chance to stay overnight in a desert tent under the stars is a rare opportunity — many mention how the peacefulness and beauty of the Sahara left lasting memories. The sunset over the dunes, combined with local dinners in traditional tents, makes this a genuinely immersive experience.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Be prepared for long travel days; comfortable clothing and shoes are advisable.
- Bring sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen — especially for midday stops.
- Consider optional activities like quad biking or camel rides (budget for €15-30 if desired).
- Remember that alcohol and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.
- Pack a camera and binoculars for the best photo and viewing experiences.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find some stops challenging due to terrain.
- Arrive with an open mind and a sense of adventure — this is about experiencing Tunisia in its most authentic and stunning form.
The Sum Up
This Night Under Tent 2 Day Excursion to Ksar Ghilane offers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to curious travelers yearning for an authentic desert experience. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a well-organized itinerary, it delivers excellent value for those wanting to explore southern Tunisia’s highlights.
The overnight stay in Bedouin tents under the stars, combined with visits to Berber villages and ancient ruins, makes for an unforgettable trip that balances relaxation with discovery. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this tour provides enough flexibility and rich experiences to satisfy all.
If you’re eager to see the Sahara’s vastness, learn about Berber traditions, and enjoy the simplicity of desert life, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just come prepared for a full day of exploration and a night spent under the stars — a truly magical experience that stays with you long after the dunes fade into memory.
FAQ
Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from Djerba is included, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.
What activities are optional during the tour?
Camel rides and quad biking are available at the oasis, with costs of €15 and €30 respectively, offering added adventure.
How long is the total duration of the tour?
The adventure lasts roughly two days, with the itinerary carefully paced to include sightseeing, cultural stops, and relaxation.
Are meals included in the price?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch (two times), and dinner, making it convenient and cost-effective.
Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews mention that guides successfully engaged children with cultural stories and fun activities.
What should I bring?
Pack sun protection, comfortable clothing, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler desert evenings.
Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Some stops involve walking and uneven terrain, so travelers with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.
This tour combines cultural richness with stunning landscapes and genuine adventure — perfect for explorers ready to step into Tunisia’s wild heart.