Two days are enough to feel the Sahara: the cave homes of Matmata, the dunes of Douz and a night at a desert camp under the stars. Here is what the itinerary looks like, the best season to go and what to bring.
Day 1: from the coast to the gates of the desert
You leave the coast early in the morning. First stop: Matmata, a Berber village known for its homes dug into the ground around a circular courtyard, and for its role as a Star Wars set. Then the road heads to Douz, nicknamed the "gateway to the Sahara", where the great dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental begin. At the end of the day, a camel ride lets you watch the sun set over the sand, before the night at the camp.
Day 2: dunes and the way back
Morning is the best time to walk in the dunes, before the heat. Depending on the programme, you continue to the oasis of Ksar Ghilane and its hot spring in the middle of the desert, then head back north with stops for photos.
When to go?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) are ideal: mild days, cool nights. In high summer the midday heat is intense; in winter, desert nights are cold.
What to pack
- Comfortable shoes, closed if possible.
- A cheche or scarf against sand and sun.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and a water bottle.
- A warm layer for the evening: even in spring, desert nights are chilly.
- A small torch for the camp.
Private, at your pace
Our tours are private: just your group, your driver and a local guide where included. Fancy an extra night, or seeing Tozeur and Chott el Jerid? We adapt the itinerary with you.
Make it longer
Over three days, the Sahara Adventure pack adds Chott el Jerid, the Tozeur oasis and a 4×4 ride in the dunes of Douz, with airport transfers included.
By L’équipe Magnific Transfert · Published September 19, 2026
