Sidi Jmour on horseback: the west coast of Djerba at sunset

When you think of Djerba, you often think of hotels on the east coast. On the other side of the island, the west coast is more discreet. At Sidi Jmour, between beach, dunes and trails, the shore remains calm outside July and August, and in the evening, the sun sets over the sea.

This is where a family riding centre, Les Galops du Sud, introduces visitors to this shoreline on horseback. Beginners and experienced riders alike find their rhythm here. Here's what you need to know before you go.

Sidi Jmour, in the north-west of Djerba

Sidi Jmour is located on the north-west coast of the island, between the airport and Ajim. From the hotels in the tourist area of Midoun and Aghir, allow 25 to 35 km depending on your hotel, or 35 to 50 minutes of driving.

The place is named after a holy man. His mosque, a small white fortress, clings to a rocky headland, by the sea.

A still wild coast

Far from tourist centres, you'll find a sandy beach, dunes and trails.

Outside July and August, the beach is quiet. It attracts both Djerbians and visitors, especially at sunset.

In summer, the atmosphere changes. In July and August, Djerbian families come to camp here, sometimes for up to a month. The beach becomes more lively.

The sun sets over the sea

The coast of Sidi Jmour faces west. In the evening, the sun therefore descends into the sea. This is the moment that has made the place famous, with both Djerbians and visitors.

The time varies greatly with the season: the sun sets around 5 p.m. in December and around 7.30 p.m. at the end of June (Tunisia time). The departure time from your hotel is set accordingly.

The Sidi Jmour Mosque, a place to respect

The mosque dates from the 16th century. It also served as a coastal surveillance post and was part of the island's former defence system. Since 18 September 2023, it has been among the sites of the property “Djerba: testimony to a mode of occupation of an island territory”, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

It is also a place of prayer and pilgrimage: people from Djerba come here to pray quietly beside the saint. If you approach it, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and be discreet.

A family riding centre by the coast

Near the beach, the equestrian centre Les Galops du Sud welcomes riders and the curious. It has stables with boxes, two paddocks where horses relax freely, a sand arena for beginners and an obstacle course.

Before you set off, you get to know your horse. The team introduces the horses, gives safety instructions and provides a helmet and safety vest. Depending on the time, you might also help brush and prepare your horse.

The horses know the beach and are used to water. Beginners are welcome: the team adapts the outing to your level and stays by your side.

Our two horse rides at Sidi Jmour

The sunset ride (1 h 30)

The simplest way to discover the coast: beach, dunes and trails, then the sun setting over the sea. Open to beginners. Return transfer from your hotel included. See the 1 h 30 ride

The west coast trek (3 h)

Three hours to take your time on the west coast. Beginners are accepted, but three hours in the saddle is long for a first time: tell us your level and we'll advise you. Return transfer included. See the 3 h trek

And the sea? When the sea and season permit, the horses enter the water. It's never guaranteed: the decision is made on the spot, for your safety and that of the horses.

When to come?

• Spring and autumn: the most pleasant seasons, with mild temperatures and a peaceful beach.
• Winter: the sun sets early, around 5 p.m., and the wind can turn cool in the evening. Bring a jacket.
• July and August: it's very hot during the day. Better to ride in the late afternoon, and the beach is busier.

What to bring

• Long, flexible trousers and closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops).
• A water bottle, sun cream and sunglasses.
• A light jacket for the return journey, outside summer.
• A swimsuit and towel in the warm season, in case the horses go into the water.
• The helmet and safety vest are provided.

How to get there

With both our rides, the transfer is included: a driver will collect you from your hotel and bring you back after the outing. The journey takes 35 to 50 minutes from the tourist area of Midoun and Aghir, slightly less from Houmt Souk.

Going further: desert riding

Fancy vast dunes? We also offer a tailor-made equestrian stay in the desert dunes around Douz. It's organised on request: its duration and dates adapt to your wishes. Two options for accommodation: a fixed camp with sanitary facilities, or a wild bivouac in the dunes. Each stay is quoted individually: write to us to receive your quote. See the horse riding stay in the dunes