Ksar Ghilane: a complete guide to the oasis of the Tunisian Sahara
What you need to know to prepare your visit, by the Golden Palm’s Holidays team, a travel agency in Kairouan.
In the south of Tunisia, where the last roads almost stop, an oasis of palm trees grows at the edge of the dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental. This is Ksar Ghilane, one of the most striking places in the Tunisian Sahara.
Where is Ksar Ghilane?
Ksar Ghilane is in the governorate of Tataouine, at the southern end of the Grand Erg Oriental, about 120 km south of Douz. The oasis is surrounded by dunes of fine sand. There is a small village, a few camps and an ancient Roman fort.
Can you go without a 4x4?
Yes. The oasis itself is reachable by road, without a 4x4. A day in Ksar Ghilane is perfectly possible by car, with a driver or in a rental car.
A 4x4 becomes useful for excursions in the dunes around the oasis. They are done with a guide who knows the terrain.
What to do in Ksar Ghilane
Swim in the hot springs. In the heart of the oasis, a natural hot spring feeds a basin where you can bathe: a natural swimming pool in the middle of the desert.
Take a camel ride. It takes you towards the springs, through the palm trees and the first dunes, at a slow pace.
Have lunch in the shade of the palm trees. A traditional meal is served on site, followed by free time to stroll or rest.
Go on a 4x4 excursion in the dunes (optional). With a driver-guide, you cross the dunes of the Grand Erg and enjoy views over the desert.
Spend a night in a bivouac. The stars, the silence and a breakfast facing the dunes.
How to organise your visit
There are three ways to visit Ksar Ghilane:
- On a day excursion, with a driver-guide, air-conditioned transport, a camel ride, access to the hot springs and a traditional lunch: Ksar Ghilane, desert and oasis by 4x4.
- On a longer tour of southern Tunisia, for example From the oases to the Sahara, at your own pace, which links Kairouan, Douz, Ksar Ghilane, then Carthage, Sidi Bou Said and Hammamet.
- On a self-drive 4x4 expedition, with the Golden Dunes Raid: 11 days from Carthage to Houidhat, with assistance and a professional desert guide.
Each programme is adjusted to your dates, your pace and your wishes. We answer every quote request within 24 to 48 hours, with no obligation.
Good to know before you go
- Bring a swimsuit, water, a hat and sun cream.
- Bring a small amount of cash for personal expenses and tips.
- Excursions into uninhabited desert areas beyond Douz and Ksar Ghilane depend on authorisations from the Tunisian National Tourism Office (ONTT). If access is closed on your dates, the itinerary is adapted and you are informed in good time.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a 4x4 to go to Ksar Ghilane?
Not to reach the oasis, which is accessible by road. Yes for excursions in the dunes around it.
Can you swim in the hot springs?
Yes, access to the hot springs is part of our day excursion.
Can you visit Ksar Ghilane in one day?
Yes, that is the idea of our day programme, with lunch included.
Can you sleep there?
Yes, in a camp in the dunes. Tell us your dates and we organise the night for you.
Do you speak English on site?
Yes, we answer in English as well as in French, Italian and Arabic, and we arrange guides according to your language.
Prepare your trip with us
Golden Palm’s Holidays is a brand of Golden Palm’s Travel, a category A travel agency based in Kairouan since 2010, member of the FTAV. Tell us what you wish for by WhatsApp, by phone or with the contact form: we will propose a tailor-made itinerary, free and with no obligation.
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