What to do in Tozeur: a guide to the Jerid oasis
What to see and what to know before you go, by the Golden Palm’s Holidays team, a travel agency in Kairouan.
Tozeur is one of the great gateways to the Tunisian Sahara. Between its palm grove, its brick houses, the huge salt lake of Chott el-Jerid and the mountain oases close by, the town deserves more than a quick stop.
Where is Tozeur?
Tozeur is in south-west Tunisia, in the Jerid region, close to the Algerian border. You reach it by road from Kairouan, Gafsa or Douz, crossing Chott el-Jerid. The town also has an airport.
What to see and do in Tozeur
The palm grove. It has hundreds of thousands of date palms. You can visit it on foot, by bike or by horse-drawn carriage, in the shade of the palms, with crops growing in layers beneath the trees.
The Ouled el-Hadef quarter. The old town is built of fired-clay bricks, with façades decorated in geometric patterns. This is what gives Tozeur its unique look.
Chott el-Jerid. This vast salt lake stretches as far as the eye can see between Tozeur and Douz. Simply driving across it is a spectacle, with its reflections and flat horizons.
Chebika, Tamerza and Mides. These mountain oases, at the foot of the Atlas, can be visited in one day by 4x4: waterfalls, gorges, palm trees in the hollows of the cliffs.
The film sets near Nefta. Several famous films were shot in the area. The sets, in the middle of the dunes, can be visited on an excursion.
Dates. Tozeur is known for its dates, especially the Deglet Nour variety. You can taste and buy them right on the spot.
How to visit Tozeur with us
- On a tour of southern Tunisia: see our tours in Tunisia, which can include Tozeur, Douz and the oases.
- By 4x4, with our desert raids and excursions.
- Tailor-made: you choose your stops, we organise transport, accommodation and visits. Tell us about your trip.
We answer every quote request within 24 to 48 hours, with no obligation.
Good to know before you go
- Bring light clothes that cover the shoulders, a hat and sun cream.
- Take plenty of water for 4x4 excursions.
- 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
How long do you need to visit Tozeur?
Two days are enough to see the town, the palm grove and the mountain oases. One more day leaves time for Chott el-Jerid and the desert.
Can you visit Chebika and Tamerza without a 4x4?
Yes, the main roads are paved. A 4x4 with a driver-guide remains the most comfortable way to link the sites in one day.
Can you go from Tozeur to Douz?
Yes, by the road that crosses Chott el-Jerid. Many travellers find this drive memorable.
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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