Hike Desert, Canyons and Berber Villages in Tunisia
- Tunisia
- 7 nights
Hike through southern Tunisia amongst orange-hued canyons, lush green oases, remote Berber settlements and Saharan sand dunes
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Hotel & Camping4 nights in traditional cosy guesthouses, 2 nights desert camping and 1 night in a luxury riad
- MealsAll breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners
- TransfersBoth airport transfers and travel between locations
- Equipment All camping equipment in the Sahara desert
- Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From…excluding flights
Highlights
Trek Tunisia’s wilderness, from arid lunar landscapes and sandstone mountains in Dahar to wild canyons and oases in Tozeur
Explore the vast dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental in the Sahara on foot, snoozing in remote desert spots and stargazing under inky skies
Immerse yourself in Berber-Amazigh culture as you roam centuries-old ksours (desert castles) and ancient medinas
Enjoy traditional Berber hospitality in authentic houses carved out of rock and spoil yourself in a luxury riad
Itinerary
Day 1
Journey to Dahar, deep in Tunisia's south
Driving5hrsGuesthouseTwin shareDinner includedShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Upon arrival at Enfidha-Hammamet Airport you'll be met by your local guide, then you'll hop on a long scenic transfer south, deep into Tunisia's remote Dahar region. Here you'll find one of the oldest mountain ranges in Africa inhabited by the Amazigh, the indigenous people referred to as the Berbers. Over the course of the week you'll be hiking through a striking arid landscape, dotted by rocky foothills and desert valleys, oasis towns, wild canyons and ancient villages carved out of rock. The region's allure extends beyond its historic citadels into the boundless expanse of the Grand Erg Oriental, in the Sahara Desert. Tonight you'll bed down in a characterful family-run gite in the town of Douiret, a stunning mountaintop Berber village where you'll enjoy the unique experience of sleeping in traditional troglodyte cave-like rooms.
Day 2
Hike to the fortified Berber village of Chenini
Hiking3hrs · 8km · 382m up · 312m downGuesthouseTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Enjoy a traditional Berber breakfast at your guesthouse, then set off on foot and descend the hill of Douiret, along a scenic trail immersed in a barren landscape, with rocky hills and red plateaus dotted by palm, fig, and olive trees. You'll be trekking along one of the 12 stages of the Great Dahar Crossing, Tunisia's first long-distance trail, reaching the impressive 12th century ksar (castle) of Chenini in time for lunch. This former fortified granary stretches into the tops of two mountains, separated by the white-washed mosque of the Seven Sleepers in the middle. Today, the hamlet is still inhabited by about 600 people, although much of this ancient village is in ruins. Step back in time as you wander around the cave dwellings and narrow alleys, then catch a transfer back to your cosy gite in Douiret. Tonight you'll tuck into a traditional homecooked dinner, featuring Tunisian dishes from the area.
Day 3
Hike the Berber gems of Zammour and Ksar Hallouf
Hiking4-5hrs · 15km · 524m up · 549m downDriving2hrsGuesthouseTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
Leave Douiret after breakfast and transfer two hours north towards Zammour, an authentic Berber village hidden in the heart of the Matmata Mountains. Today's hiking trail winds through rocky hills and valleys typical of the Dahar region, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscapes. You'll also pass an old olive press, a small oasis and several small settlements where you can get a unique perspective of Berber farming traditions and learn about the resilience of these remote desert communities. Reach the well-preserved Ksar Hallouf in the afternoon, a former stronghold against invaders, with time to explore its unique architecture. Tonight you'll bed down in another authentic troglodyte guesthouse located on a permaculture farm on the outskirts of Zammour.
Day 4
From the heights of Jbel Mzanzen to the Sahara
Hiking5-6hrs · 16km · 650m up · 549m downDriving2.5hrsDesert CampTwin tentAll meals includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
Start early today to embark on a more challenging yet rewarding route to the top of Jbal Mzanzen (610m), one of the highest points in the Dahar region. Setting off in Zammour, the trail leads into the foothills of a prominent mountain range characterised by rocky slopes and sparse vegetation, typical of semi-arid regions. As you ascend Jbel Mzanzen, the terrain can be rugged and uneven, requiring some careful navigation. At the top, you'll be rewarded with some breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, dotted by ancient ruins and fortified granaries, testimony of a rich cultural heritage amidst the stark beauty of the desert landscape. Next, transfer to Douz, the gateway to the Great Oriental Erg. Pay a quick visit to the fascinating desert museum, then settle into your comfortable desert camp in Sabria, and tuck into dinner around the fire. Enjoy your first night under the stars, lulled by the tranquillity of the desert and the twinkling of the stars.
Day 5
Sahara desert trek and a night under the starry sky
Hiking4-5hrs · 15km · 50m up · 50m downWild campingTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Grab breakfast at your camp, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure into the Tunisian desert. Today you'll hike among the monumental beauty of the Saharan dunes, accompanied by a caravan of camels which will be carrying your kit. The Grand Oriental Erg is known for its striking sand formations, sculpted by the wind, which reach impressive heights and create breathtaking vistas that extend as far as the eye can see. At sunset, you'll pitch your tents and enjoy the spectacle of the dunes bathed in a golden glow. Later, when night falls, warm up around a campfire. Far from any light pollution, watch the desert sky revealing itself in all its splendour, studded with bright stars and perhaps even a few shooting stars. Tuck into a delicious meal before you fall asleep in a comfortable bivouac, listening to the gentle rustling of the sand.
Day 6
Trek the desert dunes back to Douz and on to Tozeur
Hiking3hrs · 10km · 50m up · 50m downDriving2hrsRiadTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
Wake up in the remoteness of the Sahara, then trek back to Douz via a different route traversing more giant dunes. Enjoy a well-deserved shower in the fixed camp, before continuing by transfer. Stop off at the vast Chot el Jerid salt lake, the largest salt lake in the Sahara with a surface area of more than 2,700 square miles. With luck, you may be able to admire its rainbow-coloured salt deposits. Your scenic journey ends in the old city of Tozeur, a beautiful oasis with thousands of palm trees, known for growing the best dates in all of Tunisia. You'll have time to explore the vast oasis, as well as the old medina and its marvellous geometric architecture. Tonight you'll stay at a luxury riad, a heaven of peace with hidden interior courtyards filled with vegetation, a swimming pool and a spa where you can try an (optional) traditional hammam.
Day 7
Trek up the Sidi Bouhlel canyon and head to the seaside gem of Hergla
Hiking4hrs · 9km · 480m up · 480m downDriving5hrsGuesthouseTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 7 detailHide detail
Grab breakfast, then leave Tozeur behind and take a short transfer to Sidi Bouhlel, 20km northeast of town. Prepare to be blown away at each turn and bend as you hike through an impressive canyon with towering cliffs, winding paths and hidden pools amidst stunning rock formations that date back millions of years. This site is also the filming location of several famous movies, such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones. This afternoon, rest your legs as you embark on a long journey back up north. You'll spend your final night of the trip in the charming seaside town of Hergla, a hidden Tunisian gem along the Mediterranean coastline in the Gulf of Hammamet. Compared to other popular resorts nearby, Hergla preserves an authentic small-town charm and it's the perfect place to relax after a busy week exploring the arid wilderness of Dahar. If you have energy, join an optional farewell dinner with your group, then get some rest in the comfort of your local guesthouse.
Day 8
Goodbye Tunisia!
Breakfast includedShow Day 8 detailHide detail
After seven days in the arid mountains of Dahar and the Sahara Desert,it's time to bid farewell to your fellow travellers and head back to the airport for your flight home. Enfidha Airport is just a short drive away, so your host can arrange a transfer any time you choose to depart today. If your flight is later in the afternoon or evening, you can make the most of your time – perhaps soaking up the sun on one of Hergla's beaches. Alternatively, get lost in the town's alleys shopping for local crafts, immersed in the picturesque cobblestones, whitewashed walls, cobalt windowframes and pink bougainvillea, with the sea providing the perfect backdrop.
Practical Stuff
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Enfidha - Hammamet International Airport (NBE)
- Pick up
- Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport
13:00 on Day 1 - Drop off
- Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport
Any time on Day 8
This Trip is Graded Level 3
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided hike to Chenini on the Great Dahar Crossing
- Guided hike from Zammour to Ksar Hallouf
- Guided hike up Jbal Mzanzen
- Guided trek through the Grand Oriental Erg in the Sahara Desert
- Guided desert dune trek to Douz
- Guided hike through Sidi Bouhlel canyon
- Expert, local, English-speaking guide
- Support crew during your desert trek
- 4 nights in traditional cosy guesthouses
- 1 night desert camping in a fixed camp
- 1 night wild camping in a bivouac in the desert
- 1 night in a luxury riad in Tozeur
- All breakfasts
- 5 picnic lunches
- 5 tasty Tunisian dinners
- Group arrival transfer from Enfidha-Hammamet Airport on Day 1
- Departure transfers to Enfidha-Hammamet Airport at any time on Day 8
- All transfers throughout the trip
- Camels will carry your overnight luggage and supplies during the 2-day desert trek
- Tents will be provided for camping in the desert
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion, but there is an expectation in Tunisia to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline, which equates to approximately €70 per person for the trip as a whole.
- Main guide: €30-35 total per person
- Camel drivers: €10 total per person, to be shared amongst the local team
- Local drivers: €15 person
- Other tips for porters and restaurant staff: €10 per person
Of course, you are free to tip more if you wish and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine (opens in new tab), as their insurance offers all of the above.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
Tunisia’s cuisine is a reflection of the diverse history and cultural influence by a variety of civilizations which have crossed its lands, including the Berbers, Arabs, Ottoman Turks, and French. One of the defining characteristics of Tunisian cuisi…
Optional Extras
Pre/Post Trip Accommodation
- Additional Night in Hergla Twin/Double/Single Room
- …/per night
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room and Tent Upgrade - 2025
- …
- Optional Private Room and Tent Upgrade - 2026
- …
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent at the hotels and desert camps can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (please note that availability is limited due to the size of the accommodation used).
Transfers
- Private Transfer Enfidha Airport - Hergla (1 pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Enfidha Airport - Hergla (2+ pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Enfidha Airport (or Hergla) - Tunis (1 pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Enfidha Airport (or Hergla) - Tunis (2+ pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Hergla - Enfidha Airport (1 pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Hergla - Enfidha Airport (2+ pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Tunis - Douiret (1 pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Tunis - Douiret (2+ pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Tunis - Enfidha Airport (1 pax)
- …/per person
- Private Transfer Tunis - Enfidha Airport (2+ pax)
- …/per person
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
Ratings & Reviews
- 2 stars (0)
- 1 star (0)
Category rating
- Food
- 4.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 4.0
- Itinerary
- 5.0
Latest Reviews
Customer Photos
Before You Travel
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
What do I do about drinking water?
The tap water in Tunisia is not always friendly on the stomach. You may find purified water in some of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. To avoid plastic waste where filtered water is not available, we suggest bringing water purification tablets or a different purification system for extra safety. Please read our article on water filters for more information.
Who at Much Better Adventures designed this trip?
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 60 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
Hot climate: what factors should I consider?
This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme highs, where limited shade and high humidity can also be a factor. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but hydration, proper clothing, and sun protection are essential.
Before travelling, consider your ability to be active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have concerns – especially if you have any cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two prior to the trip may help you adjust gradually to the heat.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
The ideal period to visit the southern Tunisia's region of Dahar, where the itinerary runs, is between the months of October and May, when temperatures are milder avarageing 18-27°C. This part of the country is distinctly desert, hot and dry all-year-round. In the desert region around Douz temperartures fluctuate between 30°C during day time and below 5°C at night, so it's important to come prepared with layers and some warm clothings for the nights spent camping in the desert.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 230kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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Departure dates
Sunday 18th October 2026
to Sunday 25th October 2026
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