Zarzis in 2 Days for Friends - Explore ksours used as Star Wars filming locations (Ksar Ouled Soltane, Ksar Hadada)
In Collaboration with TRAVEL EST TUNISIA. Updated on March 6, 2026.
Two-day guided excursion from Djerba/Zarzis into the Tataouine region: visits to Ksar Ouled Soltane, Chenini and Ksar Hadada; afternoon in the Ksar Ghilane oasis with time for the thermal spring and free activities; overnight in a desert camp (Zmela camp or similar) in traditional tents; second day visiting Matmata (troglodyte houses), Tamazret panoramic stop, lunch with locals and the Star Wars S
This itinerary was created in collaboration with TRAVEL EST TUNISIA, inspired by the tour Night excursion to the desert and Berber village from Djerba . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Explore ksours used as Star Wars filming locations (Ksar Ouled Soltane, Ksar Hadada)
- Oasis time and thermal spring at Ksar Ghilane
- Overnight in a traditional desert tent (Zmela camp or similar)
- Visit troglodyte cave-houses in Matmata and lunch with locals
- Scenic panoramic stop at Tamazret and Toujane
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup from accommodation in Djerba/Zarzis and full-day exploration of the Tataouine region, finishing at Ksar Ghilane for oasis time, dinner and overnight in a desert camp.
Pickup and transfer from accommodation — begin drive to Tataouine region
Hotel/guesthouse pickup in Zarzis or Djerba area and road transfer towards the Tataouine region to begin visits.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm pickup location the evening before; driver will meet you at reception 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
- Pack a small daypack with sunscreen, water bottle and a light jacket for morning driving.
- Keep ID/passport copies handy — guides will request them when required at rural checkpoints.
Visit Ksar Ouled Soltane
Walk through the ghorfas (granary rooms) of Ksar Ouled Soltane, a historic ksar used in the Star Wars films.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy shoes — surfaces are uneven and there are short flights of stone steps.
- Bring water and sun protection; shaded areas are limited on site.
- Respect local signage and avoid climbing on fragile structures to protect the site.
Explore Chenini village
Short guided walk through the hilltop Berber village of Chenini with panoramic desert views and cave houses.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect narrow, stepped lanes — not suitable for large suitcases or strollers.
- Carry a camera with a secure strap; viewpoints are excellent but exposed.
- If you have mobility limits, tell the guide — there are flatter vantage points accessible with minimal walking.
Visit Ksar Hadada
Visit the mud-built ksar and its towers; another site used as a Tatooine filming location.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep voices low around inhabited areas; some structures are still used by locals.
- Avoid touching mudbrick walls — they can be fragile after rain.
- There are limited facilities nearby; use restroom stops during the transfer if needed.
Drive to Ksar Ghilane oasis
Road transfer across desert scenery toward the Ksar Ghilane oasis — arrival in the late afternoon for free time at the oasis.
Tips from local experts:
- The road includes long stretches without services; bring any medication you need for the day.
- Use the time in the vehicle to recharge cameras and phones if needed.
- Motion-sickness prone guests should request a seat near the front of the vehicle.
Ksar Ghilane — thermal spring and oasis time
Free time at the oasis to bathe in the hot thermal spring, relax by the water, and enjoy the dunes (optional activities are available locally).
Tips from local experts:
- Bring swimwear and a quick-dry towel if you plan to use the thermal spring.
- Optional dune activities (quad or camel) are arranged locally and may require separate payment — confirm availability on arrival.
- Protect electronics from sand; use zip-lock bags when carrying phones near dunes.
Meal options and dietary notes (Ksar Ghilane)
Camp kitchen can prepare standard meals and may accommodate common dietary needs (vegetarian on request).
Tips from local experts:
- Notify the guide of any allergies or strict dietary needs at booking and again on arrival.
- Simple vegetarian dishes are commonly available; specialized diets may be limited in remote camps.
- Carry any special snacks you need — selection at the camp kitchen is basic and communal.
Additional meal / dietary confirmation
Final meal arrangements for the evening; camp staff will prepare dinner and can confirm any requested changes.
Tips from local experts:
- If you requested a special meal, confirm with the camp staff before dinner service begins.
- Carry a refillable water bottle—hot desert nights require hydration.
- Consider modest clothing for shared dining around the camp to respect local customs.
Overnight at the Zmela camp (or similar) — desert tents
Settle into traditional tents at the desert camp for dinner and an overnight under the stars (simple, local-style tent accommodation).
Tips from local experts:
- Camp sleeping is rustic; bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper and a small flashlight for night-time use.
- Temperatures can drop quickly after sunset — pack a warm layer for the night.
- Use the communal washing and toilet facilities provided; they can be basic compared with hotels.
Day 2
Morning departure from the desert camp to visit Matmata, Tamazret, and nearby Star Wars filming locations; lunch with a local family; panoramic stop at Toujane before return to Djerba/Zarzis.
Depart camp and transfer to Matmata
After breakfast at camp, depart to Matmata to visit troglodyte sites.
Tips from local experts:
- Have a light breakfast at the camp; travel times may include short comfort stops.
- Keep sun protection and a hat handy for outdoor visits in Matmata.
- If you slept outdoors, check your belongings before departure; the guide will assist with packing.
Tamazret panoramic stop
Short stop at Tamazret for panoramic views and photos of the surrounding ridge and valleys.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at the viewpoint for unobstructed photos; there is little shade so plan quick stops.
- Keep cameras secure — windy conditions can pick up sand on exposed ridges.
- If someone in your group has mobility issues, ask the guide for the closest accessible viewpoint.
Visit Matmata cave houses and lunch with locals
Guided visit inside troglodyte dwellings in Matmata followed by a prepared lunch in a local home to taste traditional cuisine.
Tips from local experts:
- Respect private homes during the lunch — modest dress is appreciated and remove shoes if requested.
- Inform your guide in advance of dietary needs so the hosts can adapt the meal.
- Bring a small gift (e.g., sweets or small useful items) if you wish to thank your hosts — check with the guide first.
Visit Sidi Idriss filming site (included in Matmata visit)
See the exterior of the Sidi Idriss site used in the Star Wars films (part of the Matmata visit sequence).
Tips from local experts:
- Sidi Idriss is a small site — expect limited space for large groups and be patient during photo stops.
- Follow the guide’s instructions regarding where to stand for the best photos without disturbing residents.
- There may be a small entrance or courtesy fee collected locally for access; have small change ready if required.
Transfer toward Djerba/Zarzis with stop in Toujane
Drive back with a scenic stop at Toujane village for panoramic views and photos en route to the drop-off location.
Tips from local experts:
- Toujane’s viewpoint is exposed; carry water and a hat for the short walk to the best vistas.
- Plan for brief photo stops; the guide will set a realistic time limit to keep the schedule.
- If you prefer not to walk uphill, inform the guide — there are lower viewpoints accessible with less effort.
Dietary options and final meal notes (Day 2)
Confirmation of any special dietary requests for the group and a final light refreshment if arranged before drop-off.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have leftover dietary requests, reconfirm with the guide earlier in the day for smoother arrangements.
- Carry light snacks for the return drive if you have specific dietary needs that may not be met on the road.
- Bottled water is often available for purchase at larger stops — keep small change handy.
Return transfer to Djerba or Zarzis — drop-off at accommodation
Final transfer returning guests to their accommodation in Djerba or Zarzis; end of service on arrival.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect arrival in the early evening; confirm your preferred drop-off point with the guide at departure from Toujane.
- Keep small valuables with you during transfer — luggage will be stored securely in the vehicle.
- If you need onward transport from Zarzis or Djerba (airport or ferry), arrange timings in advance with the guide.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 11 |
| Total Places | 11 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Meal, Hotel, Culture |
