For many visitors the Sahara is the great unticked box of a trip to Tunisia, and a two-day tour with a night in a tent is the quickest way to tick it from Tunis. The idea is simple: you leave early, drive south through olive groves and then the drier plains, and spend the night in a camp at the edge of the dunes. Itineraries differ between operators, but the usual ingredients are time among the dunes at sunset, a camel ride, dinner and music around a fire, a night in a tent under a sky full of stars, and a sunrise walk before the long drive back. For anyone who has never seen a real desert, the first view of an ocean of orange sand is unforgettable, and the silence at night is something you do not forget. Because the distances are large, this is a demanding trip rather than a casual excursion. The Sahara proper lies a long way south of the capital, so expect long hours in a vehicle on both days, with rest stops at roadside cafes and sights en route, which may include oases, salt flats or ancient towns depending on the route. The camps range from simple to comfortable, with shared or private tents, and the facilities are modest. It suits adventurous travellers who prefer experiences to comfort, and it is best done with realistic expectations: the journey is part of the adventure, and the rewards are the dunes, the camp and the night sky.
What to expect
Tours of this kind are typically sold from Tunis, Hammamet and Sousse, with pickups from hotels and an early start. Check exactly where the camp is and how long the driving is each day, because that varies by operator and route. Dinner and breakfast are normally included, but confirm what is covered, including drinks, camel rides and any entrance fees.
Nights in the desert can be cold even when days are hot, especially from late autumn to early spring, so pack a warm layer, a hat and closed shoes for the sand. Bring a power bank, since charging options in camp are limited, and carry cash for tips and small purchases.
Getting the best out of it
If you have the time, a three-day version allows a more relaxed pace and more time in the desert, and it often adds oasis towns such as Tozeur or Douz on the way. If you have only two days, accept the long drives, take a book and a neck pillow, and keep your luggage light, as camps usually provide only a bed and a tent.
Wear light, loose clothing and sunscreen in the day, a scarf for dust and a warm jacket at night. Spring and autumn are ideal, winter is cool but clear and summer is extremely hot, which many operators avoid or adapt for.
Who it suits
Adventurous travellers, couples seeking something memorable and families with older children who can handle long drives. It is less suited to anyone who dislikes long journeys, has back problems or is unwell, or expects a hotel-style experience. Choose a well-reviewed operator, read the itinerary closely and ask about group size, camp facilities and what happens in case of bad weather such as a sandstorm or rain.
What to expect
The experience
A two-day guided excursion south with time among the dunes, a camel ride, dinner and a night in a tented camp, then a sunrise and the drive back.
Best time
Spring and autumn for comfortable days and cool nights; winter is cold at night, and summer is very hot.
How long
Two days, with long hours on the road on both.
Tips
Pack a warm layer, closed shoes, sunscreen, a scarf and a power bank, and confirm exactly what is included before you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a night under the desert stars and is happy with long drives.
- Families
- Possible with older children who cope with long journeys; camp facilities are basic.
- Couples
- A memorable night in a tent, a camel ride at sunset and a star-filled sky.
- Pair with
- A three-day version with oasis towns, or a few days in Tunis before or after.
- Time needed
- Two days, or three for a more relaxed pace.
Good questions
Can I really see the Sahara from Tunis in two days?+
Yes, but it means long drives on both days. The desert lies a long way south, so many travellers choose a three-day version for a more relaxed pace.
What is a desert camp like?+
Camps range from simple to comfortable, with tents, shared or private, and basic facilities. Dinner, breakfast and an evening around a fire are normally part of the experience.
What should I pack?+
A warm layer for the night, a hat, closed shoes for sand, sunscreen, a scarf and a power bank, plus cash for tips.
Is it cold in the desert at night?+
It can be, especially from late autumn to early spring. Days can be warm while nights are cold, so bring warm clothes.
What is the best time of year?+
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Winter is clear but cold at night and summer is extremely hot.
