Djerba: Horseback or Camel Ride to Lagoon & Berber Villages

Summary

Lagoon rides, Berber villages and Djerba’s wild tracks

You’ll ride by horse or camel across Djerba’s quiet tracks lined with prickly pears, passing through Berber villages most tourists never see. With your local guide leading, you’ll reach the blue-green lagoon for a break at the water’s edge—just sand, sun, and maybe some laughter if you try your luck with Arabic greetings.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first few minutes in Djerba — the way the horses snorted softly, their breath mixing with that dry, herbal smell from all the prickly pears and aloe vera everywhere. Our guide, Sami, handed me a helmet (he called it a “bomb” in French, which made me laugh), and gave quick instructions. I’d never ridden a camel before, but there was no pressure either way. Some people in our group chose horses; I stuck with the camel because honestly, when else?

The tracks took us past these little Berber villages that looked almost empty at first, but then you’d see someone waving from a doorway or hear kids calling out something I didn’t catch. The island felt different here — quieter than near the hotels, just wind and hooves on sand. Sami pointed out some old stone wells and tried to teach us a few words in Arabic. Li laughed when I tried to say “shukran” properly — probably butchered it. The sun was bright but not too hot that day; you could smell salt as we got closer to the lagoon.

Crossing the lagoon on horseback (or camelback) was slower than I expected — there’s this weird hush over the water except for birds arguing somewhere off to the side. We stopped right at the edge for a break. Someone pulled out dates from their bag and shared them around; they tasted sticky-sweet against all that salty air. It’s funny how small moments like that stick with you more than any postcard view.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback or camel ride to lagoon

• Meet horses and instructors
• Receive explanations
• Ride through Berber villages
• Cross the lagoon on mounts
• Take a short break by water

Top questions

How long is the horseback or camel ride in Djerba?

The ride lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all levels of experience.

Are helmets provided during the tour?

Yes, helmets (“bombs”) are included for all riders.

Can children join this Djerba ride?

Infants and small children can participate in a pram or stroller.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No meals are included; only helmets are provided.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the meeting point.

Is this tour recommended for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What’s included

Your experience includes use of helmets for safety throughout your horseback or camel ride; you’ll be guided by local instructors as you travel through Djerba’s villages and along sandy tracks to reach the lagoon before returning together at journey’s end.