Southern Tunisia Tour: Matmata, Chenini & Ksars from Tozeur

Summary

Visit Berber Villages and Troglodyte Homes in the Sahara

You’ll walk through ancient Berber villages, step inside real troglodyte homes in Matmata, and cross the Sahara’s edge with locals who know every shortcut. If you want to see Tunisia beyond postcards—and taste bread fresh from a cave oven—this trip’s for you.

What’s the experience like?

First thing you notice out here is the silence—just the wind brushing over the sand as we left Tozeur behind. Our driver, Sami, had a knack for pointing out things I’d never spot alone: tiny desert fox tracks near the road, or a faded sign for mint tea at a roadside stall. Bottled water in hand, we rolled through the Dhahar mountains toward Toujane. The air smelled faintly of thyme and dust. We stopped for photos—Toujane’s houses almost blend into the rocks until you squint. A local boy waved at us from his donkey; he was selling almonds by the handful.

Matmata was next. I’d seen pictures of those cave houses before but standing inside one is something else—the coolness hits you right away, even though it’s blazing outside. Our host, Fatma, showed us her kitchen carved straight into the earth. She laughed when I asked about rain—“It never leaks,” she said, “but sometimes sand sneaks in.” Lunch was simple but filling: bread baked in ashes and spicy harissa with olive oil.

Later we reached Ksar Hadada—if you’re a Star Wars fan, you’ll recognize it from “The Threat of the Ghost.” Even if you’re not, it’s wild to see how Berber tribes used these granaries to store grain safe from raiders. The walls are thick and cool; pigeons fluttered overhead as our guide explained how families once lived here during harvest season.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Sahara Desert

• Explore Sahara desert

Day 2 — Experience Berber Culture

• Berber culture

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes—it’s designed for all fitness levels. There’s some walking on uneven ground but nothing too tough. Just bring comfy shoes and sun protection.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?

No need! Lunch, dinner, breakfast, and bottled water are all included. You might want some small cash for local snacks or souvenirs though.

How many people will be on this tour?

The tour runs with at least two people per booking—so it feels personal but not crowded.

Where does the tour start and end?

We pick up and drop off right at your hotel in Tozeur—it’s easy and hassle-free.

What’s included

Your driver-guide takes care of everything: bottled water all day (trust me—you’ll want it), meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), overnight accommodation in a local spot, plus hotel pickup and drop-off from Tozeur. Just show up ready to explore!