Tunisia · UNESCO Heritage Sites

12-Day Tunisia Discovery Tour with Desert Camp and UNESCO Sites

12 Days Round trip from Testour Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like Dougga and El Jem's Roman Colosseum
  • 02 Visit the holy city of Kairouan and enjoy its local treat, 'makrouth'
  • 03 Experience the vibrant culture and landscapes of Djerba and the Kerkennah Islands
  • 04 Discover stunning oases like Chebika and Tamerza in the Atlas Mountains
  • 05 Enjoy a unique night in a desert camp with Berber cultural immersion

Embark on this 12-day journey through Tunisia for an authentic experience focused on the country's must-see places while respecting sustainability and authenticity. Travel across varied landscapes, from Roman archaeological sites and holy cities to mountain oases, desert camps, and Mediterranean islands. Along the way, discover local culture and Tunisian heritage in places such as Kairouan, Tozeur, Djerba, Kerkennah, Carthage, and Sidi Bou Said. This program combines history, nature, and immersive local experiences away from traditional tours.

Travel across varied landscapes, from Roman archaeological sites and holy cities to mountain oases, desert camps, and Mediterranean islands.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Luxury
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Monastir, Kairouan, Hammamet, Sfax, Sousse, Tatouine, Tunis, Matmata, Sbeitla, Le Kef, Douz, Tozeur, Djerba, Nafta, El Djem, Dougga, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, Chenini
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Tunis, Testour, Dougga, Bulla Regia and Le Kef

  • Tunis: Arrival in Tunis. Explore the Medina and iconic sites like the Bardo Museum and Zitouna Mosque.
  • Testour: Depart for Testour, a picturesque village known for its Andalusian heritage and olive trees.
  • Dougga: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Dougga, an impressive Roman site with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, temple, and baths.
  • Bulla Regia: Discover this ancient Roman city with unique underground houses designed to protect against the heat.
  • Le Kef: Explore this mountain town combining historical heritage and panoramic views. Stroll through the Medina, and visit the Kef Castle and Roman ruins.

Overnight at a guesthouse in Le Kef, "Casa Zitouna," or in a nearby town based on availability.

2
Day 02

Makthar, Kesra, Raqqada and Holy Kairouan

  • Makthar: Visit the Roman ruins of Makthar, including the tomb of the Juba family.
  • Kesra: Explore the ancient Berber houses and authentic Medina of Kesra.
  • Raqqada: Visit the Raqqada Museum to discover archaeological treasures related to the city's history.
  • Kairouan: Discover the holy city of Kairouan, home to its impressive Great Mosque, medersas, and the Sidi Sahbi mausoleum. Enjoy the local treat, 'makrouth,' and visit the Aghlabid basins.

Overnight in a guesthouse, "DAR KLEE," or at La Kasbah hotel in Kairouan.

3
Day 03

Sbeïtla Ruins and Tozeur Oasis

  • Sbeïtla: Visit the archaeological site of Sbeïtla, dating back to Roman times.
  • Tozeur: Explore the Tozeur oasis with its palm groves, traditional brick architecture, and local museums.

Overnight at "Ksar Rouge" or a similar hotel in Tozeur.

4
Day 04

Mountain Oases, Ong Jmel and Nefta

  • Chebika: Explore this mountain oasis with waterfalls and trails.
  • Tamerza: Visit Tamerza, another majestic oasis in the Atlas Mountains, and its stunning gorges.
  • Midès: Walk through this perched oasis with its dramatic gorges.
  • Ong Jmel: Visit the Ong Jmel film set, known for its appearance in "Star Wars."
  • Nefta: Explore the Medina of Nefta, famous for its traditional ksour and desert landscapes.
  • Return to Tozeur for dinner and an overnight stay.
5
Day 05

Chott El Jérid Crossing and Douz Desert Experience

  • Chott El Jérid: Cross this vast salt lake that stretches endlessly, offering surreal beauty.
  • Douz: Arrive in Douz, the gateway to the desert, to discover desert culture and nomadic traditions. Camel rides or quad biking are available as optional activities.
  • Overnight in a desert camp in the Grand Eastern Erg in the Tunisian Sahara.
  • Desert Camp: Experience a unique night at the desert camp "Dune Insolite" or a similar camp, with activities like camel rides and immersion in Berber customs.
6
Day 06

Desert Camp, Matmata and Tataouine

  • Desert Camp: Experience a unique night in a desert camp, with camel rides and cultural immersion.
  • Matmata: Visit the famous troglodyte dwellings, underground homes still inhabited today.
  • Tataouine: Discover the traditional ksour of Tataouine, ancient earth fortresses, and explore local crafts.

Overnight in a guesthouse in the Berber village of Chenini, "Kinza," or "Gite Douiret."

7
Day 07

Tataouine Ksour and Cultural Djerba

  • Tataouine: Explore Tataouine's traditional ksour and local crafts.
  • Djerba: Discover the essentials of Djerba with a guided tour. Visit the charming village of Guellala, where you will explore a traditional pottery workshop and local museum.
  • Continue to the El Ghriba synagogue, an iconic spiritual site, then visit Djerba Hood, an open-air museum blending contemporary art with traditional architecture.
  • In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Djerba culture by visiting a Menzel Djerbien (traditional house), the Fdhloune Mosque, and the lively streets of Houmt Souk, the island's commercial heart.
  • End the day with an overnight stay in the traditional guesthouse "Le Patio Mezreya" or a similar property for an authentic experience.
8
Day 08

Sfax Medina and the Kerkennah Islands

  • Depart from Djerba for a day of exploration in Sfax and the Kerkennah Islands.
  • Start with a delicious lunch in a local restaurant in Sfax before wandering through the Medina with its picturesque streets, lively souks, and historical landmarks like the city walls and Great Mosque.
  • In the afternoon, head to the peaceful Kerkennah Islands, an idyllic archipelago known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
  • Discover traditional fishing villages and enjoy the slower pace of life.

Spend the night in the traditional guesthouse "Beit El Ezz" or at a similar local hotel.

9
Day 09

Kerkennah, El Jem and Monastir

  • After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful morning in Kerkennah before heading back to the mainland. The drive to El Jem takes around 2 to 3 hours through picturesque rural landscapes, with olive fields and traditional villages along the way.
  • El Jem: Begin your visit at the magnificent Roman Colosseum, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world. Explore its vast arena and monumental architecture.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum of El Jem, which houses fascinating artifacts, including mosaics depicting daily life and religious beliefs in ancient Roman times.
  • In the afternoon, head to Monastir, a charming coastal city along the Gulf of Hammamet.
  • Explore the Medina of Monastir, a fortified city with narrow streets, traditional shops, and vibrant local life. Visit the Ribat of Monastir, an 8th-century Islamic fortress offering panoramic views of the city, Medina, and the sea.

Overnight at "ROSA BEACH" hotel or a similar property in Monastir.

10
Day 10

Monastir to Historic Sousse

  • After breakfast, begin your day by visiting the Ribat of Monastir and continuing to Sousse.
  • Sousse Medina: Walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Medina of Sousse and explore its narrow streets, bustling souks, and artisanal workshops.
  • Visit the Great Mosque of Sousse, an example of 9th-century Islamic architecture.
  • Visit the Ribat of Sousse, a 9th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the Medina and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Explore the Archaeological Museum of Sousse with its Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic artifacts.
  • Visit the Kasbah of Sousse, a former fortified palace with spectacular views of the city and sea.
  • Enjoy free time for shopping in the Medina, then relax in the evening at your 4-star hotel.
11
Day 11

Kerkouane, Korbus, Al Huwariyah and Hammamet

  • Depart Sousse early in the morning for a day of discoveries.
  • Kerkouane: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Punic archaeological site of Kerkouane, one of the largest ancient Phoenician cities.
  • Korbus: Continue to Korbus, famous for its natural hot springs. Enjoy the breathtaking sea views and relax in the thermal waters.
  • Al Huwariyah: Explore the traditional village of Al Huwariyah with its beautiful beaches and authentic streets.
  • Hammamet: Arrive in Hammamet, known for its beaches and lively atmosphere. Stroll through the historic Medina and visit the fort overlooking the sea.

Overnight at "Bel Azur" or a similar hotel in Hammamet.

12
Day 12

Tunis, Bardo, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said

  • Depart Hammamet early in the morning toward Tunis.
  • Tunis Medina: Arrive in Tunis and explore the Medina, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through narrow streets, discover local souks, and admire traditional architecture.
  • Bardo Museum: Visit the Bardo Museum, one of the world's most important archaeological museums, famous for its Roman mosaics and extensive historical collections.
  • Carthage: Explore the ancient site of Carthage, a landmark in ancient history with Roman ruins and an ancient theater.
  • Sidi Bou Said: Continue to Sidi Bou Said, a charming village with white and blue houses. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets and take in the panoramic views of the sea.

Dinner and overnight at EL "MOURADI GAMMARTH" or a similar hotel in Tunis.

Dougga ruins, Amphitheatre of El Jem, Chott El Jérid salt lake, Djerba

Where this trip takes you

Dougga ruins, Amphitheatre of El Jem, Chott El Jérid salt lake, Djerba

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Testour 19 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private transport in a comfortable bus
  • English-speaking guide approved by the national tourist office
  • Luxury accommodation on a half-board basis for 11 nights in 4-star hotels, guesthouses, campsites, and gites
  • 4x4 vehicle for the safari in Tozeur
  • Lunch for all 12 days
  • All entrance fees and visits noted in the program
  • Bottles of wine on the bus
  • Airport transfers between the airport and hotel/hotels on the day of arrival and the day of return

What's Not Included

  • Drinks
  • Optional activities (camel ride: 15 euros per person, quad tour: 35 euros per quad, caleche: 10 euros per person...)
  • Tips
  • Personal purchases
  • Tourist taxes (around euro per person per night)
  • Internal and external flights
  • Accommodation for the first night before the tour starts and the last night on the day the tour ends

What to bring

  • Light clothing for hot days
  • A sweater or jacket for cool evenings
  • A comfortable outfit for sightseeing and excursions
  • A swimsuit if you plan to swim
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A hat or cap to protect you from the sun
  • A camera or phone to capture memories
  • Chargers and adapters
  • A backpack or travel bag for excursions
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect from UV rays
  • Cash in the local currency, as not all vendors accept card payments

Know before you go

  1. Tunis and iconic sites: Begin in Tunis, where you will explore the historic Medina, the Bardo Museum, and the impressive Zitouna Mosque, immersing yourself in the capital's rich culture and history.

  2. Testour and Dougga: Visit the charming village of Testour, famous for its Andalusian heritage and olive trees, before discovering Dougga, a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved Roman ruins, including a theater, temple, and baths.

  3. Bulla Regia and Le Kef: Explore the ancient Roman city of Bulla Regia, renowned for its underground houses designed to protect against the heat, and then visit the mountain town of Le Kef with its panoramic views, Medina, and historical castle.

  4. Kairouan and its holy sites: Discover the holy city of Kairouan, home to the Great Mosque, medersas, and the Sidi Sahbi mausoleum. Enjoy local delicacies like 'makrouth' and explore the Aghlabid basins.

  5. Sbeïtla and Tozeur Oasis: Visit the archaeological site of Sbeïtla, showcasing Roman history, and then head to Tozeur to explore its stunning palm groves and traditional brick architecture.

  6. Oases of Chebika, Tamerza, and Midès: Explore the stunning mountain oases of Chebika, Tamerza, and Midès, known for their waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and breathtaking landscapes.

  7. Ong Jmel and Nefta: Visit the Ong Jmel film set, famous for its appearance in 'Star Wars,' and explore the Medina of Nefta with its traditional ksour and desert landscapes.

  8. Chott El Jérid and desert adventure: Cross the vast Chott El Jérid salt flat and experience the unique culture of the desert in Douz. Optional camel rides and quad biking offer a true taste of nomadic life.

  9. Matmata and Tataouine: Visit the famous troglodyte dwellings in Matmata and the traditional ksour of Tataouine, ancient earth fortresses offering a glimpse into Berber architecture and culture.

  10. Djerba Island: Discover the cultural treasures of Djerba, including the pottery village of Guellala, the El Ghriba synagogue, and the open-air Djerba Hood museum blending contemporary art with traditional architecture.

  11. Sfax and Kerkennah Islands: Explore the Medina of Sfax with its bustling souks and historical landmarks, then relax on the peaceful Kerkennah Islands, known for their tranquil atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

  12. El Jem and Monastir: Visit the magnificent Roman Colosseum of El Jem, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then explore the fortified Medina of Monastir and its 8th-century Ribat with panoramic views.

  13. Sousse and Kerkouane: Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Medina of Sousse and visit the Punic archaeological site of Kerkouane, one of the largest ancient Phoenician cities.

  14. Korbus and Hammamet: Relax in the natural hot springs of Korbus, known for its stunning sea views, before heading to Hammamet to explore its beaches, Medina, and fort overlooking the sea.

  15. Tunis, Carthage, and Sidi Bou Said: End your journey with visits to the historic sites of Carthage, including Roman ruins and the ancient theater, followed by a stroll through the charming village of Sidi Bou Said with its white-and-blue houses and panoramic sea views.

A comprehensive journey through Tunisia's rich history, culture, and natural beauty, combining ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and authentic local experiences.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Testour, Tunisie
Tour start
Testour, Tunisie
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 12 days finish where they began, in Testour.

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Starting from

EUR 3,400 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room €3,400.00 — €4,800.00
Double Sharing €3,400.00 — €4,800.00

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