TUNISIA: FROM CARTHAGE TO THE OASES. A 10-DAY ODYSSEY, BRIDGING HISTORY AND THE SAHARA

This day is dedicated to one of North Africa’s most spectacular archaeological treasures, providing a profound look into the Roman era before moving on to the spiritual capital. Morning: Dougga – Jewel of Roman Heritage Early Departure: Depart from Tunis (or your location) early in the morning to drive towards Dougga (Ancient Thugga). Dougga (UNESCO World Heritage Site): We begin with an immersion in the grandeur of ancient Rome by exploring the magnificent archaeological site of Dougga. Exploration: Dougga is famous for having some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. You will admire its well-preserved Theatre, the majestic Capitol, and its intricate architecture and mosaics (implied treasures, mostly housed at the Bardo Museum). Midday/Afternoon: Transfer to Kairouan Lunch: Enjoy lunch near the Dougga site (in Téboursouk) or en route. Transfer: Continue the journey toward Kairouan (approx. 2-3 hours drive total from the morning’s departure point). Late Afternoon/Evening: Kairouan Arrival Installation: Upon arrival in Kairouan, you will check-in to your accommodation. Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Kairouan.

This day marks a significant transition, moving from the inland Roman heritage of Central Tunisia directly to the threshold of the vast Sahara Desert. Morning: Sbeïtla – Roman Heritage Early Departure: Depart from Kairouan and drive south towards the archaeological site of Sbeïtla (Sufetula). Sbeïtla Exploration: We explore Sbeïtla, a key archaeological site. You will spend the morning discovering its impressive Capitol and Byzantine remains, witnessing the former extent of the Roman world in North Africa. Midday: The Journey South Lunch: Enjoy lunch near Sbeïtla or on the road. Desert Transition: Begin the long, scenic drive south toward the edge of the Sahara. This is where you will begin to discover the majestic power the desert has always had over our minds. Afternoon/Evening: Arrival in Tozeur Tozeur Arrival: We reach Tozeur, the primary oasis city located at the gateway to the vast Sahara Desert, which covers almost all of southern Tunisia. Installation: Check-in to your hotel. Evening: Dinner and Overnight Stay Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Tozeur.

This day is dedicated to exploring the dramatically contrasting landscapes around Tozeur, from salt flats to palm groves, with a range of thrilling optional desert activities. Morning: The Chott El Jerid Experience Chott El Jerid: Begin the day with a drive to the massive, stunning salt lake of Chott El Jerid. This extraordinary environment provides a unique, shimmering landscape. Optional Adventure (Adrenaline): You’ll have the opportunity to engage in exciting activities such as sand yachting (wind permitting) on this immense salt lake. Midday/Afternoon: Oasis and Air Lunch: Enjoy lunch in Tozeur or a nearby location. Optional Adventure (Air/Terrain): For those looking for more excitement, optional activities are available: Sky View: You can fly over the palm trees in a hot air balloon (weather permitting) for a spectacular view of the oasis. Desert Thrills: Alternatively, you can tackle the sand and rocky terrain on a quad bike excursion. Local Note: Note that the final destination, Douz, is known as the famous gateway to the vast Sahara, and the journey there awaits. Evening: Dinner and Overnight Stay Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Tozeur, preparing for the drive to Douz tomorrow (Day 5).

This pivotal day involves traveling deep into the Sahara, discovering unique Berber architecture, film history, and culminating in an unforgettable night under the desert sky. Morning/Midday: Journey and Film History Saharan Journey: We travel deep into the Sahara, where golden sand dunes stretch across a relentlessly arid landscape. Matmata: Visit Matmata, famous for its unique troglodytic (underground) homes. This area, along with others, was made famous by the filming and production of the world-famous Star Wars movie saga. Lunch: Enjoy lunch in a traditional troglodytic dwelling in Matmata. Afternoon: Ksars Tataouine Ksars: The region is dotted with iconic sites like Tataouine with its Berber Ksars (fortified granaries). You will explore these ancient structures, which reveal the unique history of the Berber communities. Evening: Desert Experience

This is a day dedicated to travel, marking the major transition from the vast ochre-coloured landscapes of the Sahara back to the bustling blue coastline of the Mediterranean. Morning: Departure from the South Early Departure: Depart early from the Tataouine/desert area. Long Drive: Begin the long drive toward the coast, heading north-east via Gabès and continuing on to Sfax (approx. 320 km total). Scenic Transition: The journey offers a spectacular transition, taking us back from the raw desert beauty to the eastern coast, making the visual and atmospheric shift between the vibrant ochre of the land and the deep blue of the sea. Midday/Afternoon: Lunch and Coastal Arrival Lunch: Enjoy lunch en route, perhaps with a brief stop in Gabès (known for its coastal oasis). Arrival in Sfax: Arrive in the major coastal city of Sfax in the late afternoon. Evening: Dinner and Overnight Stay Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Sfax.

This day connects two pivotal Roman archaeological sites with a beautiful drive back to the capital, highlighting the agricultural richness of the Tunisian central plains. Morning: The Grandeur of El Jem Early Departure: Depart from Sfax and drive north toward El Jem. El Jem Exploration: We stop to rediscover a major archaeological treasure by visiting the spectacular Amphitheatre of El Jem (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Spend time marveling at this immense structure, which speaks to the prosperity of ancient Thysdrus. Midday/Afternoon: Scenic Route and Roman Finale Lunch: Enjoy lunch en route as the journey continues north towards the capital region, passing near Zaghouan. Agricultural Landscape: This route crosses landscapes that reveal extensive citrus and olive groves. This is a legendary land where the golden liquid of Tunisia’s olive groves flows endlessly, underscoring the region’s historical role as the granary of Rome. Oudhna (Uthina) Visit: Stop to visit the significant archaeological site of Oudhna. Explore this key Roman city, featuring its imposing Capitol and amphitheater. Evening: Return to Tunis Return to Tunis: Complete the drive and return to Tunis in the late afternoon. Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Tunis, preparing for the final days around the capital.

This full day is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the historical and cultural soul of the Tunisian capital, blending the treasures of ancient empires with the vibrant life of the Islamic city. Morning: Bardo Museum – Mosaic Treasures Bardo National Museum: The morning is devoted to visiting the renowned Bardo Museum. Highlight: Explore the museum’s magnificent collection, implicitly renowned for its mosaics—the largest and finest collection of Roman mosaics in the world—which narrate the story of Tunisia’s ancient empires. Afternoon: The Vibrant Medina Medina of Tunis (UNESCO World Heritage Site): The afternoon is reserved for the ancient Medina of Tunis. Immersion: Exploring the narrow streets, you’ll be enchanted by a bustling market (souks). Here, the sights, sounds, and smells of spices, textiles, and crafts mingle to create a sensory experience like no other. This is the place where history and daily life converge. Evening: Dinner and Overnight Stay Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Tunis.

This memorable day is dedicated to the world-famous historical and architectural gems located just north of Tunis, blending ancient history with unparalleled coastal beauty. Morning: The Legacy of Carthage Early Departure: Begin the short drive to the coastal area. Carthage (UNESCO World Heritage Site): We begin in Carthage, the ancient city that stands as a testament to Tunisia’s Phoenician and Roman heritage. Exploration: Founded in the 9th century BC, it was a major center of trade and culture. You will explore its scattered ruins, including the Punic Ports and the Antonine Baths. You will climb the imposing Byrsa Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Gulf of Tunis. Midday/Afternoon: Lunch and Coastal Charm Lunch: Enjoy lunch near the coast. Sidi Bou Saïd: Next, we discover Sidi Bou Saïd, a picturesque and charming coastal village. Highlight: Sidi Bou Saïd is famous for its whitewashed buildings and brilliant blue accents. It was recently ranked the 3rd Most Beautiful Village in the World. Enjoy a final stroll through its artistic alleys and a traditional mint tea overlooking the Mediterranean. Evening: Dinner and Overnight Stay Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Tunis.

Transfer to the airport. You’ll leave Tunisia, a country that has combined history with the beauty of nature, offering you a mosaic of blue, white, green, and ochre.