8 Day Deluxe Sahara Journey

Vast desert landscapes, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and hidden oases – Tunisia is a land where centuries of history blend seamlessly with nature’s raw beauty. On this deluxe 8-day journey through the country’s most iconic and enchanting regions, you’ll travel in style and comfort while uncovering the rich heritage, flavours, and scenery of this remarkable North African gem.

Your adventure begins in the cosmopolitan capital of Tunis, where the timeless energy of the Medina hums alongside elegant French colonial boulevards. Explore the world-renowned Bardo Museum, home to one of the most important collections of Roman mosaics, and walk in the footsteps of empires through the ruins of ancient Carthage. The Moorish charm of Sidi Bou Said awaits with its cliff-top views, blue-shuttered buildings, and artistic soul.

From there, the journey unfolds into Tunisia’s spiritual heartland. In Kairouan, one of Islam’s holiest cities, marvel at the grandeur of the Great Mosque and discover sacred shrines steeped in history. Further south, step into the tranquil palm groves of Tozeur, known for its intricate architecture, artisan heritage, and the sweet flavour of its dates. Enjoy a unique visit to the Eden Palm Eco-Museum, where ancient traditions meet sustainable agriculture.

The tour then whisks you through some of Tunisia’s most breathtaking natural scenery. Travel by 4×4 into the dramatic mountain oases of Tamerza, Chebika, and Mides – where waterfalls, canyons, and Berber villages cling to the rock in stunning contrast to the surrounding desert. Cross the shimmering Chott El Jerid salt lake en route to Douz, the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where a luxury camp experience under star-filled skies invites you to connect with the rhythms of the desert.

In Matmata, uncover the underground world of the Berber troglodyte homes, famously featured in Star Wars, and experience the warmth of local hospitality during a traditional visit with a Berber family. Your journey continues to the sun-soaked island of Djerba, where ancient Jewish, Muslim, and Berber cultures coexist in harmony. Explore Houmt Souk’s colourful markets and visit the famed pottery village of Guellala.

The final days take you along Tunisia’s captivating coast – through Gabes and Sfax, to the awe-inspiring Roman amphitheatre at El Jem, one of the most impressive and well-preserved in the world. In Monastir, discover the imposing Ribat fortress and end your trip with a coastal flourish in Hammamet, a seaside town known for its soft beaches, stylish hotels, and tranquil medina.

Throughout the journey, you’ll stay in carefully selected deluxe hotels, boutique guesthouses, and an atmospheric desert camp – combining comfort, elegance, and authentic charm.

Whether you’re fascinated by Roman ruins, enchanted by desert landscapes, or curious to explore Tunisia’s cultural tapestry, this top-class tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime escape into a land of splendour, history, and soul-stirring beauty.

Your Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tunis

Your journey begins with your arrival at Tunis–Carthage International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your deluxe hotel. Settle in and unwind after your flight at your prestigious hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner, with time to rest ahead of your exciting days to come.

Day 2: History and Charm – Tunis Medina, Carthage & Sidi Bou Said

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Tunisia’s capital with a visit to the world-renowned Bardo Museum, home to an outstanding collection of Roman mosaics and archaeological treasures. From here, delve into the ancient Medina of Tunis, where bustling souks and narrow alleyways offer a sensory journey through history and culture. Enjoy a gourmet lunch at a top-class restaurant in Tunis before continuing to Carthage, the ancient Punic and Roman city overlooking the Mediterranean. Walk among the ruins of villas, baths, and harbours before heading to the enchanting clifftop village of Sidi Bou Said. Famous for its whitewashed walls and blue shutters, this picturesque spot is the perfect place to end your day. Return to your hotel in Tunis for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Sacred cities and Palm Oasis – From Kairouan to Tozeur

Depart after breakfast for the holy city of Kairouan, one of Islam’s most significant sites and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Visit the magnificent Great Mosque and explore a local mausoleum. After lunch in a quality restaurant or hotel in Kairouan, journey southward through the landscapes of Gafsa to reach the oasis town of Tozeur. Famed for its 250-acre palm grove and premium dates, Tozeur welcomes you with a visit to its charming medina and the Eden Palm Eco-Museum – a living tribute to the cultural and agricultural importance of the date palm. Explore artisan workshops and enjoy local date-based pastries before checking into a stylish guest house for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Oasis Mountains to Douz

After breakfast, set off on a half-day 4×4 adventure into the stunning mountain oases of Tamerza, Chebika, and Mides. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and panoramic canyon views. Return to Tozeur for lunch before continuing across the otherworldly Chott El Jerid salt lake, whose shimmering surface changes colour with the light. Arrive in Douz, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” and settle into a luxury desert camp where you will enjoy a magical evening with dinner under the stars and a peaceful overnight in the heart of the desert.

Day 5: Landscapes and Berber Heritage

Following breakfast, travel to the remote desert oasis of Ksar Ghilane, where golden dunes meet warm natural springs. Then journey on to Matmata, famed for its traditional troglodyte homes carved into the earth. Several scenes from Star Wars were filmed here, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local underground home and meet a Berber family. A delicious lunch is served at the four-star Hotel Diar El Barbar before continuing to the island of Djerba. Check in to your luxury hotel for dinner and restful night.

Day 6: Island Discoveries and Coastal Markets

After breakfast, explore the cultural richness of Djerba Island. Visit the capital, Houmt Souk, with its lively markets and charming squares, followed by a stop in the pottery village of Guellala, known for its traditional crafts. Depart the island and head toward the city of Sfax, passing through Gabes – where you’ll stop to visit the local spice markets. Lunch is provided en route. Time permitting, enjoy a panoramic tour of Sfax before checking in at the refined Borj Dhiafa Hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 7: El Jem, Monastir, Sousse & Hammamet

Begin your day with a visit to El Jem, where you’ll stand in awe before the colossal Roman amphitheatre – a 1,700-year-old marvel of ancient engineering and one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world. Continue to Monastir to explore the imposing Ribat fortress, then enjoy lunch in Monastir or Sousse. In the afternoon, explore the coastal city of Sousse, including its historic medina and the modern marina of Port El Kantaoui. Your day concludes with a scenic drive to Hammamet, where you’ll check in at your chic hotel for dinner and overnight in this seaside town.

Day 8: Farewell Tunisia

After breakfast, bid farewell to Tunisia’s golden shores as you are transferred to Tunis–Carthage Airport for your flight home. Take with you unforgettable memories of desert sunsets, ancient cities, and the warm hospitality that defines this extraordinary land.