Explore Tunisia in Depth: The Grand Tour in 8 Days (From Tunis)

Discover the best of Tunisia on an unforgettable 8-day journey from Tunis to the Sahara Desert. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient Roman ruins, charming coastal towns, sacred Kairouan, mountain oases, spectacular canyons, and iconic Star Wars filming locations. Experience a desert oasis at Ksar Ghilane, sleep in a traditional tent beneath the stars, discover Berber villages and troglodyte homes, and admire the magnificent Roman amphitheatre of El Jem. A perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and authentic Tunisian hospitality.

Embark on an extraordinary 8-day journey through Tunisia, combining ancient civilizations, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mediterranean charm, breathtaking desert landscapes, and authentic Berber culture. Starting in Tunis, this tour takes you through the country's most fascinating destinations, from the historic streets of Carthage and Kairouan to the mountain oases of Tozeur, the golden dunes of the Sahara, and the traditional villages of southern Tunisia.

Along the way, discover iconic Star Wars filming locations, cross the vast salt lakes of Chott El Jerid, relax beside the natural spring at Ksar Ghilane, and spend a memorable night in a desert camp beneath a sky full of stars.

Day 1 – June 6: Tunis, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said

Your Tunisian adventure begins with your arrival at Tunis-Carthage International Airport at 10:35 AM. Our local partner will welcome you and arrange your transfer to the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said, famous for its whitewashed houses, blue doors, charming streets, and spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea.

Enjoy some free time to stroll through the village, explore its traditional architecture, and discover its cafés and artisan shops. Lunch is at your leisure.

At 1:00 PM, meet your tour guide if you have selected the guided option and begin exploring Tunisia's rich historical heritage.

Visit the old Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow alleyways, traditional souks, historic mosques, and architectural treasures reveal the country's fascinating past.

Continue to the Bardo Museum, renowned for its exceptional collection of Roman mosaics and archaeological treasures that illustrate Tunisia's rich ancient history.

Your journey continues to the archaeological site of Carthage, once a powerful Phoenician and Roman city. Discover its remarkable remains, including Byrsa Hill, the Punic sanctuary, the Antonine Baths, and the ancient Punic harbour.

At the end of the day, travel to Sousse, where you will check in to your hotel and relax.

Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Sousse, including breakfast.

Day 2 – June 7: Sousse, Monastir and Port El Kantaoui

After breakfast, discover the historical and coastal charm of Tunisia's eastern Mediterranean region.

Begin with a visit to the old Medina of Sousse, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its traditional streets, explore the lively souks, and admire its historic architecture and defensive walls.

Continue to the Sousse Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Roman mosaics, ancient sculptures, and archaeological objects that reveal the region's Punic, Roman, and early Christian heritage.

Enjoy lunch at your leisure before travelling to Monastir.

Visit the impressive Ribat of Monastir, a historic Islamic fortress overlooking the sea, known for its architectural significance and panoramic views. Continue to the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, the resting place of Tunisia's first president, distinguished by its elegant architecture and golden domes.

Later, head to Port El Kantaoui, a beautiful marina lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy free time to stroll along the harbour and soak up the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Return to Sousse for your overnight stay.

Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Sousse.

Day 3 – June 8: Kairouan, the Holy City of Tunisia

After breakfast, depart for Kairouan, one of the most important historical and spiritual cities in the Islamic world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begin your visit at the Great Mosque of Kairouan, also known as the Mosque of Uqba Ibn Nafi. Admire its monumental courtyard, impressive minaret, and distinctive architecture, which reflect the city's important role in Islamic history.

Explore the old Medina, where traditional streets, historic buildings, artisan workshops, and local shops preserve the authentic character of this remarkable city.

Continue to the Aghlabid Basins, an extraordinary medieval hydraulic system built to collect and store water. These engineering works demonstrate the ingenuity of the Aghlabid dynasty and the importance of water management in the region.

Visit the Mausoleum of Sidi Sahbi, commonly known as the Barber's Mosque, an important religious monument associated with a companion of the Prophet Muhammad.

Enjoy lunch at your leisure before continuing your journey south toward Tozeur, an oasis town famous for its palm groves, traditional brick architecture, and proximity to the Sahara Desert.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: Two-star hotel in Tozeur.

Day 4 – June 9: Mountain Oases, Canyons and Star Wars at Mos Espa

After breakfast, set off to discover the spectacular mountain oases of southwestern Tunisia.

Your first destination is Chebika, a former mountain village known for its dramatic rocky scenery, palm trees, and natural springs. Accompanied by a local English-speaking guide, enjoy an approximately 40-minute hike through the old village and along paths leading to the water source emerging from the mountainside.

Continue to Mides, famous for its impressive canyons, deep ravines, and striking desert landscapes. Take time to admire the scenery and capture memorable photographs.

Next, visit Tamerza, one of Tunisia's best-known mountain oases, where you can discover its beautiful waterfall and surrounding rocky landscape.

After lunch at your leisure, prepare for an exciting off-road adventure toward Mos Espa, one of Tunisia's most famous Star Wars filming locations near Nefta. Travel across the extraordinary terrain of Chott El Gharsa, passing sand dunes and rugged desert tracks to reach the remarkable film sets.

Explore the abandoned-looking science-fiction settlement and discover the landscapes that helped bring the planet Tatooine to life on screen.

As the day draws to a close, admire the sunset over the desert and the Star Wars structures, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for photography.

Before returning to Tozeur, stop at the famous Basket of Nefta, a natural depression surrounded by palm groves, and enjoy the scenery over a cup of traditional tea.

Return to your hotel for the night.

Accommodation: Two-star hotel in Tozeur.

Day 5 – June 10: Crossing Chott El Jerid and Overnight at Ksar Ghilane

After breakfast, take some time to explore the old Medina of Tozeur, renowned for its traditional brick architecture, narrow streets, and distinctive local craftsmanship.

Then begin your journey across the extraordinary landscapes of southern Tunisia toward Ksar Ghilane.

Cross Chott El Jerid, Tunisia's largest salt lake, where the vast white salt flats and shimmering mirages create an almost otherworldly landscape. Along the route, discover fascinating desert scenery, including petrified sand formations and traditional water-management techniques used to irrigate the southern palm groves.

Continue to Douz, often called the Gateway to the Sahara. Enjoy free time to explore the local souk and discover regional products and traditional crafts. For an additional fee, you may choose an optional camel ride across the dunes or an exciting quad-bike experience.

After lunch at your leisure, continue toward Ksar Ghilane, a beautiful oasis surrounded by the golden dunes of the Sahara. The contrast between the ochre-coloured sand and the green palm trees creates one of the most memorable landscapes of southern Tunisia.

Visit the natural hot spring in the oasis, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim if conditions permit. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and the unique beauty of this remote desert destination.

Before sunset, arrive at your desert camp and settle into your tent. Watch the sun disappear over the dunes as the desert changes colour in the fading light.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional demonstration of sand-baked bread preparation, an authentic desert cooking technique in which bread is cooked beneath hot embers. Dinner follows, with free time to relax, admire the stars, and experience the tranquillity of the Sahara far from city lights.

Accommodation: Zmela Camp or a similar desert camp.

Day 6 – June 11: Berber Villages, Chenini, Ksar Hadada and Matmata

After breakfast, leave the desert behind and continue toward Tataouine, a region celebrated for its Berber heritage, traditional architecture, and fortified granaries.

Visit Chenini, one of southern Tunisia's most remarkable Berber villages. Built along a hillside, the village features traditional stone houses, ancient structures, and panoramic views over the surrounding landscape. Discover the history and lifestyle of the local communities while appreciating the village's distinctive architecture.

Continue to Ksar Hadada, a historic fortified granary famous for its appearance in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Explore the traditional structures and learn how these fortified buildings were historically used to store agricultural produce.

Enjoy lunch at your leisure before travelling toward Matmata, passing through the spectacular landscapes of southern Tunisia.

Stop in Toujane, a traditional Berber village nestled among the hills, where you can enjoy a short walk, discover the local architecture, and take photographs of the surrounding scenery.

Continue to Matmata, famous for its troglodyte homes excavated into the earth to provide protection from the region's extreme temperatures. Visit a local Berber family and experience their hospitality over traditional tea, olive oil, and honey.

Your final visit of the day is the famous Sidi Driss troglodyte hotel, a legendary Star Wars filming location used to represent the Lars family homestead on Tatooine. Discover its underground courtyards and distinctive rooms carved into the hillside.

Enjoy an unforgettable overnight stay in this historic setting, combining Berber traditions with cinematic history.

Accommodation: Sidi Driss troglodyte hotel in Matmata.

Day 7 – June 12: El Jem and the Roman Amphitheatre

After breakfast, depart from Matmata and travel toward El Jem, one of Tunisia's most important archaeological destinations.

Visit the magnificent El Jem Amphitheatre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Built during the Roman period, this monumental structure once hosted public spectacles and gladiatorial contests. Explore its impressive seating levels, underground passages, and vast arena while discovering the importance of El Jem in ancient Roman Africa.

Continue to the El Jem Archaeological Museum, where you can admire beautiful Roman mosaics, sculptures, and artefacts that provide insight into the region's ancient history and everyday life.

Enjoy lunch at your leisure before continuing to Sousse.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing after your journey through Tunisia's historical and desert regions.

Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Sousse.

Day 8 – June 13: Departure from Tunisia

After breakfast or an early morning check-out, depart from your hotel in Sousse at approximately 7:00 AM for your transfer to Tunis-Carthage International Airport.

The planned arrival at the airport is approximately 10:10 AM, allowing you to prepare for your departure.

Your eight-day journey through Tunisia comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of ancient civilizations, coastal towns, sacred heritage, Berber villages, spectacular desert landscapes, and legendary Star Wars locations.

Accommodation: Not included on the final day.

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