2 Days Tour of the Sahara from Hammamet

Discovering the Sahara from Hammamet: A Balanced Look at the 2-Day Tour

Planning a trip to Tunisia and dreaming of experiencing its vast Sahara? This 2-day Sahara tour from Hammamet promises a blend of iconic sights, cultural encounters, and unforgettable desert landscapes. While the journey is long and packed with activities, it offers a unique glimpse into Tunisia’s diverse south — from salt lakes to Berber villages and star-studded dunes.

Three things we love about this tour: the chance to see the legendary El Jem amphitheatre, the authentic Berber troglodyte homes in Matmata, and the mesmerizing sunrise over Chott El Jerid salt flats. On the flip side, a few travelers note that the bus rides can be lengthy and somewhat uncomfortable, which is worth considering if you’re sensitive to long hours on the road. This tour suits those eager for a comprehensive Sahara experience with guided insights and scenic stops, especially if you enjoy culture and stunning vistas.

Key Points

• Varied Itinerary: Combines history, culture, and natural beauty across Tunisia’s south.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who offer insights in multiple languages.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting Berber villages, salt lakes, and desert camps.
• Long Days: Expect early mornings, long drives, and packed schedules.
• Value for Money: Includes meals, hotel stay, and multiple activities at $175.71.
• Mixed Reviews: Some praise the guides and scenery; others mention bus comfort issues.

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Sahara Tour from Hammamet

This tour provides a broad look at some of Tunisia’s most striking sights, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a taste of desert life, history, and local culture. With a cost of around $175.71 per person, it’s priced to include meals, hotel accommodation, and guided commentary, which adds value considering the diverse sites visited.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief considering the desert heat and long drives. While the itinerary doesn’t specify group size, reviews suggest it can be quite a large group (up to 55 travelers), though some travelers, like Guy, experienced a more VIP feel with just a couple of guests and a private guide. This variability hints at flexibility but also points to possible crowded moments.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Hammamet to Sahara’s Heart

The journey kicks off with a visit to the Amphitheatre of El Jem, often called the “Colosseum of Africa.” This Roman relic is a highlight for history lovers and offers great photo opportunities. However, note that admission tickets are not included, so budget around 12 TND if you want to enter.

Next, the tour heads to Matmata, famous for its troglodyte homes and as a filming location for Star Wars. Here, you’ll get to step inside traditional Berber dwellings, which are carved directly into the earth — a genuine, living piece of Tunisia’s heritage. Many reviewers mention that lunch in these troglodyte homes is a novel experience, adding a layer of cultural authenticity.

A midday break at Tamezret offers panoramic views of a Berber village perched atop a hill, with a chance to enjoy green tea infused with rosemary. It’s a peaceful spot that rewards a short stop with stunning vistas.

Arriving in Douz, the so-called “Gateway to the Sahara,” the evening is dedicated to exploring desert dunes. Optional activities like camel rides or quad biking are available, but if you prefer to relax, you’ll have an hour to enjoy the sunset from a café. The highlight here is dinner in the desert with Bedouin entertainment, which many reviews find memorable — the authentic music and local dishes create a true desert ambiance.

Your overnight stay is at a 4-star hotel, offering a welcome retreat after a day of exploration. A pool and the hotel’s amenities add a touch of comfort after hours in the bus.

Day 2: Salt Lakes and Oasis Adventures

After breakfast, the tour continues with a visit to Kebili, known for its oasis and bustling souk, giving a peek into local market life.

The highlight of the day is Chott El Jerid, the enormous salt lake. Here, travelers can witness a spectacular sunrise over the flat, white salt flats — an image that sticks with many. The salt desert’s stark beauty is complemented by a stop at a café, where you can buy salt souvenirs and fossils. One reviewer called it “a true white salt desert, flat without relief,” perfectly capturing the landscape’s surreal quality.

Next, the journey takes you to Chebika, a lush oasis surrounded by cliffs, waterfalls, and small lakes. You might even take a swim in the lake amid the canyons, an invigorating contrast to the arid environment. Many appreciate the guided tour of the oasis, which reveals hidden waterfalls and fruit-bearing date palms.

The final stop at Tamaghza surprises visitors with its big waterfall amid an otherwise dry landscape. It’s a strange and almost magical sight, often described as “strange and magical” by travelers.

The tour concludes with a return to Hammamet, ending a full, diverse exploration of Tunisia’s south.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Several reviews highlight the knowledge of guides like Kamel and Ali, who offer stories in multiple languages — making the experience accessible and enriching. The Sunset in the Sahara, as one reviewer said, was a standout highlight, thanks to the guide’s tips on the best viewing spots.

Dining in the desert with Bedouin entertainment adds a cultural touch that’s rare in typical tours. The overnight stay in a high-star hotel provides a comfortable base after long desert adventures.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers mention long bus rides and discomfort, as the journey involves numerous hours on the road. The vehicle’s comfort level might not match the scenery, especially for those sensitive to heat or motion. Plus, while the tour includes many stops, admission fees for certain sites (like El Jem) aren’t included, which can add up.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a rundown of southern Tunisia. If you’re interested in history, culture, and stunning landscapes in one package, you’ll find this tour rewarding. The presence of a knowledgeable guide makes it suitable for those who want context and stories behind each sight.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or value comfort over extensive sightseeing, you might find the long drives tiring. It’s also a good fit for those willing to pay the extra for a richer, guided experience with authentic local interactions.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Sahara tour offers a well-rounded peek into Tunisia’s diverse south, combining towering Roman relics, traditional Berber villages, and breathtaking desert vistas. The inclusion of meals, hoteliers, and guiding services creates a package that balances adventure with comfort.

While the bus rides can be lengthy and some sites require an extra fee, the opportunity to see the salt flats at sunrise, explore ancient oasis towns, and spend a night under the stars makes this a worthwhile choice for travelers craving a full Sahara experience. The knowledgeable guides and authentic cultural interactions elevate the tour from mere sightseeing to a meaningful journey.

This tour is best suited for those who want to pack a lot into a short trip and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s perfect for history buffs, desert lovers, and anyone eager to understand the varied tapestry of Tunisia’s southern regions.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making logistics easier for travelers staying in Hammamet.

What does the tour include?
It includes meals (dinner, breakfast, and two lunches), bottled water, guide services, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel accommodation.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, camel rides and quad biking are available for extra fees, if you want to add some adventure to your desert experience.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At around $175.71, the tour offers a broad range of sights, guided insights, and accommodations, representing good value for a two-day package.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides like Kamel and Ali provide explanations in multiple languages, making the experience accessible to international travelers.

What is the accommodation like?
You stay in a four-star hotel in Douz, which provides comfort and a relaxing base after busy days.

How long are the bus rides?
The schedule mentions long hours on the bus, which some travelers find tiring, especially given the distances covered.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally suitable, with baby seats available if needed, but consider the long drives and early mornings for younger children.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Are there any extra costs to consider?
Admission to certain sites like El Jem is not included, so budget for those if you wish to explore more deeply.

In the end, this Sahara adventure offers a genuine taste of Tunisia’s desert landscapes, history, and culture. It’s a busy but rewarding journey that would suit travelers eager to see the highlights and embrace the adventure of the desert.