Tozeur Private Canyon Tour: Chebika, Tamerza & Mides Oases

Summary

Mountain Oasis Adventure: Explore Chebika, Tamerza & Mides

If you want to see real desert oases and ancient villages without crowds, this private tour from Tozeur is for you. You’ll walk through palm groves, hear local stories, and catch views you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me in Chebika was the cool air coming off the wadi. Even with the sun already high, you could hear frogs croaking near the little streams. Our guide, Sami, pointed out how the old stone houses seem to lean into the mountain—some walls still holding on after all these years. We followed a narrow path past date palms and tiny wildflowers. There’s this faint smell of wet earth and mint from a nearby vendor’s tea stand. If you look up, you’ll spot eagles circling above the cliffs.

Tamerza felt different—quieter somehow. The abandoned village sits above a wide canyon, and you can see where the waterfall drops down into a pool below. I remember the wind picking up here, carrying bits of sand and the sound of distant goats. Sami told us about the Berber families who once lived here and how they moved after a big flood in the 1960s. We walked through what used to be someone’s living room—tiles still clinging to the floor—and peeked over the edge for views that just go on forever.

Mides was our last stop. The canyon is deep—almost dizzying if you get too close to the edge. The rock layers are striped with reds and golds, and there’s this hush except for birds darting between palm trees. A couple of local kids waved at us from across the ravine. It’s easy to lose track of time here; I almost forgot we had to head back until Sami gently rounded us up for the drive home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tamerza, Chebika, and Midès Oases

• Visit Tamerza mountain oasis and Berber ruins
• Discover the Oasis of the Sun with springs and palm groves
• Explore Midès Oasis and ancient ruins

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for young kids or older travelers?

Yes, it’s good for all ages—paths are mostly easy but do wear comfy shoes. Infants need to sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Will there be time to take photos at each stop?

Absolutely! There’s plenty of time at each oasis for photos or just soaking in the views.

Are there any food or drink stops along the way?

You’ll find small vendors selling tea or snacks at some stops—bring some cash if you want to try anything local.

What should I watch out for with local vendors?

Some vendors can be persistent with souvenirs or photos (especially with animals). Just say “no thank you” firmly if you’re not interested.

What’s included

Your private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Tozeur or Nefta and all transport in an air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle. Just bring your camera and some water—the rest is sorted.