Amazigh, Oasis, Salt Lakes

Day 1 from Djerba to Tozeur and Douz

We leave Djerba island through the ferry that make the maritime connection between Jorf’s Cliffs and the small fishing port of Ajim. We head toward the desert for our first stop at Douz, also known as the Desert Gates, passing through the Berber village of Toujane, and Matmata. As we go through the Berber village of Toujane: photo break to enjoy the panoramic views of Matmata mountain range. Then visit of a troglodyte home in Matmata, this atypic place which inspired the director of the Star Wars saga. Arrival in the city of Douz, which consists of 12 000 souls and 25 times more palm trees, making it the largest palm grove in Tunisia and the main production site of the famous variety of dates Deglet Nour. Photo break on the edge of the Sahara to admire the white sand dunes typical of Douz area, and the relics of sanded up villages, testifying of the desert inexorable encroachment. Lunch in a 3-star hotel in Douz.

After lunch, we continue our trip to Tozeur, going through a surprising place where you can see “the dunes roots”. We cross the Salt Lake “Chott El Jerid”, huge salt desert where you can distinguish mirages on the horizon (photo break). Arrival in Tozeur during the afternoon: we make our way through Tozeur palm grove toward Eden Palm for a visit of the Palm tree museum, the discovery of a model palm grove maintained with traditional methods, and a tasting of sweet products date-based. Then we return to the old city center of Tozeur for a visit by foot of the medina, particularly the district of Ouled el Hadef, famous for its preserved architecture. At the end of the day, transfer and check-in at a 4-star hotel in Tozeur for dinner and night.

Day 2 the three mountain oases: Tamerza, Chebika and Mides

After breakfast, departure at 8h00 am for a visit of the mountain oases near Tozeur: Mides canyons, Tamerza falls and Chebika springs. We ride from one oasis to the other by 4×4, then we visit each natural site by foot. Lunch at a local restaurant in Tozeur. In the afternoon, we make our way back across the Salt Lake Chott El Jerid. On the way, we visit one of the artesian wells providing water to the oasis of Kebili. Photo break in the Berber village of Tamezret, and its landscapes sculpted by rainfall erosion. Return toward Djerba island through the Roman roadway, which connects the island to the mainland. The 4×4 brings you back to your place of stay.