Few visitors venture beyond Tunisia's Mediterranean beaches, but we find this ancient part of the African Maghreb fascinating for its natural beauty and historical diversity. Ulysses discovered it first. Now it's our turn.

Old Carthage & Holy Kairouan
We first visit Carthage, situated just outside Tunis, then head for Kairouan - Tunisia's holiest city, its Great Mosque, domes and minarets visible from afar. The town's Medina overflows with carpets and craftwork. We'll also see the crenellated walls of Sfax and visit the huge Colosseum at El Djem.

Camel Trekking & Oasis Village
We stay overnight in the troglodyte village of Matmata before setting out to explore the Grand Erg Oriental - the dunes of the Northern Sahara. Travelling in the traditional way during our 3-day camel trek, we'll feel the silent mystique of the world's greatest desert and may meet its itinerant tribesmen. We drive through the mirages on the salt flats of Chott-el-Jerid to the lively town of Tozeur where you can opt to visit the set used in "Star Wars". We then drive up past cool waterfalls to the oasis of Tamerza, and walk to Mides.

Roman Cities
We take time to absorb the remains of the Roman city at Sbeitla with its impressive Forum and Triumphal Arch, and then head on to Le Kef dominated by the hilltop kasbah. We'll also take a unique ride on the Red Lizard train before heading for the superb mosaics at Bulla Regia. Finally we'll stop to explore the remarkable Roman ruins of Dougga before returning to the bustling capital of Tunis.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Tunis. 2 In Tunis, visit Bardo museum. 3 Visit Carthage; drive Kairouan. 4 Visit Kairouan's Great Mosque; via El Djem Colosseum to Sfax. 5 Drive Matmata, visit Troglodyte Caves. 6 Via Douz to Zaafrane. 7 to 9 3-day Camel Trek in the Sahara; last day return Douz. 10 Drive via Chott el Jerid to Tozeur; optional visit by 4WD to Stars Wars set. 11 In Tozeur; visit Tamerza and walk to Mides (2-3hrs). 12 Drive via Gafsa and Sbeitla to Le Kef; Red Lizard train. 13 In Le Kef; visit Bulla Regia and optional walk at Sidi Mansour. 14 Via Roman Dougga to Tunis. 15 End Tunis.

Accommodation: 11nts hotel, 1nt Troglodyte cave hotel, 2nts wild camp; 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners included.
Transport: Bus/On foot/Camel Trek.
Comment: An adventure into lesser known parts of Tunisia. A wonderful contrast between archaeological sites, towns rich in culture and the stark and tranquil beauty of the Sahara.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s), national guide and some local guides. Camel tenders and a cook during camel trek.
Trip Reference: TN