Berber Odyssey: Secrets of Matmata and Magic of the Desert

2 Days
  • Campsite
  • All year round
  • Djerba, Zarzis, Tataouine
  • Free up to 72 hours in advance
  • English, Arabic, French, German, Italian

Overview

  • Matmata: Visit the troglodyte houses, Star Wars filming locations. Discover the unique architecture and local culture.
  • Traditional Lunch: Culinary experience in a troglodyte house, offering authentic flavors of the region.
  • Essabriya – The Unusual Dunes:
    • Camel Ride: Peaceful camel ride to admire the desert landscapes.
    • Sunset: Magical moment to admire the sunset between the dunes.
    • Preparation of ‘El Malla’ Bread: Demonstration of traditional Bedouin bread baking in the coals.
    • Dinner under the Tents: Enjoy a typical dinner in the desert, followed by folk dances and an authentic evening around a campfire.
  • Overnight Stay under the Tents: Unique experience of sleeping under the stars, with different categories of tents available.
  • Local Breakfast: Start your day with a breakfast rich in local products.
  • Ksar Jouamaa: Coffee/tea break in this picturesque location, followed by a varied lunch before returning to Djerba.

This excursion immerses you in the heart of local culture and traditions, with expert guidance from a driver and a local guide for a memorable experience.

The Desert Gems

  • Immersion in Star Wars History: Visiting the troglodyte houses of Matmata offers a direct immersion into mythical settings from the Star Wars saga, a dream for fans.
  • Unique Cultural Discovery: The experience of living in a troglodyte house for lunch immerses you in local traditions and way of life, offering a rare perspective on the culture of the region.
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: The Essabriya dunes offer a stunning natural spectacle, especially during sunset, a magical moment that remains etched in memory.
  • Camel Adventure: Riding a camel among the dunes is an authentic and peaceful way to explore the desert, offering breathtaking views and a nature-connecting experience.
  • Local Cuisine and Gastronomy: From the preparation of traditional 'el malla' bread to dinner under the tents, this excursion is also a culinary journey, showcasing flavors and techniques of traditional cuisine.
  • Night under the Stars: Sleeping in a tent under the desert's starry sky is a rare experience that combines adventure and romance, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
  • Interaction with Locals: The folklore evening and exchanges with the Bedouins around a campfire allow for a real immersion in the local culture, enriching your journey with a human and warm aspect.
  • Discovery of Ksar Jouamaa: Visiting this traditional ksar offers an insight into local architecture and history, complementing the cultural experience of the journey.

Booking

Booking Conditions

Booking Procedure:

  • Initial Contact: Please contact us via our website, WhatsApp, phone, or email to check availability for your desired dates.
  • Confirmation: Upon availability confirmation, a written confirmation will be sent to you with details of your booking.
  • Deposit: A 30% deposit of the total price is required to secure your reservation.

Payment:

  • Balance: The remaining balance must be settled on the day of the excursion.
  • Accepted Payment Methods: We accept payments via bank transfer, credit card, or cash.

Cancellation and Refund:

  • Client Cancellation: Free with full refund of the deposit if canceled before 72 hours.
  • Organizer Cancellation: In case of excursion cancellation due to reasons beyond our control (unfavorable weather conditions), an alternative or full refund will be offered.

Additional Information:

  • Special Conditions: Please inform us at the time of booking of any medical condition, special dietary requirement, or other specific needs.

We are committed to providing a memorable and hassle-free experience. For any questions or specific requests, feel free to contact us.

Price:

Price for 2 people: 341€ per person
Price for 3 people: 312€ per person
Price for 4 people: 281€ per person
Price for 5 people: 252€ per person

Services

Included Services

  • Comprehensive Assistance: Experienced chauffeur and local guide throughout the excursion.
  • Guided Tours: Exploration of the troglodyte houses of Matmata and Ksar Jouamaa.
  • Traditional Meals: Lunch in a troglodyte house, dinner under the tents, local breakfast, and varied lunch before the return.
  • Desert Adventures: Camel ride, sunset observation, and demonstration of 'el malla' bread preparation.
  • Accommodation: One night under the tents, with several available categories and shared amenities.
  • Evening Entertainment: Folkloric evening with dances and music around a campfire.

Non-Included Services

  • Personal Expenses: Souvenir purchases, drinks outside of included meals, and other personal expenses.
  • Tips: Tips for the guide, driver, and service staff, at your discretion.

Galactic Exploration:

Matmata and Essabriya Dunes

Act One: Matmata Caves

Your adventure begins with a journey through time and space to the fascinating troglodyte houses of Matmata. These dwellings, carved into the rock, served as refuge for early inhabitants to escape extreme climates and more recently, have been immortalized as sets in the Star Wars saga. The unique architecture and history of the place will be unveiled, plunging you into a universe where tradition and science fiction meet.

Traditional Meal in a Troglodyte House

After exploration, a traditional lunch awaits you in one of these unique homes. You’ll have the opportunity to taste typical dishes, prepared according to recipes passed down from generation to generation, in a setting that transports you to another world.

Act Two: Unusual Dunes of Essabriya

The adventure continues to the “Unusual Dunes” campsite of Essabriya, where the desert unfolds before you in all its majesty. There, a camel ride takes you to explore the sandy expanses, offering you a moment of tranquility and deep connection with nature.

Sunset and Evening under the Stars

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the sunset observed from the dunes, a spectacle of colors and light, followed by a traditional dinner under the tents. The evening is animated by folk dances, a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and share friendly moments with the inhabitants.

Overnight Stay at the Campsite

The campsite offers different types of tents, adapted to all needs, for a night experience in the desert that is both comfortable and authentic. It’s a rare opportunity to sleep under a starry sky, in the enveloping silence of the desert.

Return to Civilization

The next day, after a revitalizing breakfast, the journey continues to Ksar Jouamaa for a short visit. This ksar, with its traditional constructions, offers a final glimpse of the cultural richness of the region before returning to Djerba.


What’s Included in Your Adventure: We take care of everything to ensure you have a hassle-free experience. From round-trip transportation, to authentic meals and accommodation, to cultural and relaxation activities, everything is organized so you can fully enjoy every moment.

Preparations for Adventurers: Remember to bring clothing suitable for the desert’s climatic variations, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the unforgettable moments that await you.

Everything You Need to Know About Your Desert Adventure

What level of physical fitness is required to participate in the excursion?

The excursion is designed to be accessible to most fitness levels. Camel rides and desert walks are moderate and can be adapted to individual needs. However, we recommend participants to have a basic level of fitness to fully enjoy the experience.

What should I bring with me for the excursion?

We recommend comfortable clothing suitable for desert climates, including sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), walking shoes, a camera, and a water bottle. Don’t forget to bring warm clothing for cool evenings in the desert.

How are meals organized during the excursion?

Meals are carefully prepared to offer an authentic culinary experience, showcasing local cuisine. Vegetarian and special dietary options can be arranged upon prior request.

Is it possible to have an individual tent at the campsite?

Yes, we offer different categories of tents, including individual options. Please specify your preference when booking.

What safety measures are taken during the excursion?

Safety is our top priority. The excursion is led by experienced guides trained in first aid. The campsite is secure, and all vehicles are regularly inspected and equipped for desert terrain.

How can I book my excursion and what are the payment conditions?

Reservations can be made directly on our website, by phone, or by email. A deposit is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due before departure. Please refer to our “Booking Conditions” section for more details.

Is there a cancellation policy?

Yes, we understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is flexible, allowing cancellation up to 15 days before departure with minimal cancellation fees. For more information, please refer to our “Booking Conditions” section.

Is this excursion suitable for children?

Absolutely, families are welcome! Some activities are especially enjoyed by younger ones. Feel free to let us know of any specific requests to ensure the comfort of your children.

Can I participate in the excursion if I have dietary restrictions?

Yes, we strive to accommodate all dietary restrictions. Please inform us of your specific needs at the time of booking.

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  • Campsite
  • All year round
  • Djerba, Zarzis, Tataouine
  • Free up to 72 hours in advance
  • English, Arabic, French, German, Italian
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