Tozeur Excursion: Mountain Oases & Star Wars Sets
Overview
A Tozeur excursion is the ultimate experience for any traveler looking to uncover the breathtaking contrasts of Southern Tunisia. In a single day, you will transition from the refreshing shade of natural springs hidden in arid mountains to the vast, golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. This tour is designed to provide a perfect blend of cinematic history and authentic Berber culture.
Why Book a Tozeur Excursion?
Choosing a Tozeur excursion means immersing yourself in natural landscapes that have shaped world cinema. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a die-hard Star Wars fan, or a nature lover, this 4×4 journey will exceed your expectations. You will explore unique geological sites that tell the story of millions of years of erosion and human resilience.
The Three Mountain Oases: Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides
The highlight of your Tozeur excursion is undoubtedly the visit to the three “suspended” oases located near the Algerian border. These villages were abandoned after catastrophic floods in 1969, leaving behind hauntingly beautiful ghost towns.
- Chebika, the “Palace of the Sun”: Famous for its narrow canyon where a crystal-clear spring gushes from the rocks. The panoramic view from the top of the old village is simply unforgettable. Learn more at Discover Tunisia.
- Tamerza and its Cascades: Formerly the Roman city of Ad Speculum, Tamerza hosts the largest waterfall in the region. It is the perfect spot for a refreshing break and a traditional lunch.
- Mides and the Great Canyon: Perched on a rocky outcrop, Mides overlooks a 3km-long canyon. This site is world-renowned for its geological layers and served as a natural defense for centuries.
Adventure at Ong Jmel and the Star Wars Galaxy
After exploring the mountains, your Tozeur excursion takes a cinematic turn. We leave the paved roads behind to navigate the sandy tracks once used by the legendary Paris-Dakar Rally drivers.
The Ong Jmel Rock (The Camel’s Neck)
This natural formation, carved by wind erosion, resembles the neck of a camel. Beyond its natural beauty, the site hosted the filming of the Oscar-winning movie “The English Patient”. Standing atop the rock offers a 360-degree view of the Chott El Gharsa salt lake.
Mos Espa: The City of Tatooine
The climax of the day is a visit to the Mos Espa film set. Built for Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, this village remains one of the best-preserved film sets in the world. You can wander between the moisture vaporators and dome-shaped houses that served as Anakin Skywalker’s childhood home. For fans, check out this comprehensive guide to Star Wars locations in Tunisia.