Nestled at the edge of the vast Sahara Desert, Tozeur is one of Tunisia’s most captivating destinations. Known for its sprawling date palm oases, ancient architecture, and cinematic desert landscapes, Tozeur offers a perfect mix of natural wonder and cultural heritage. Once a thriving caravan stop along trans-Saharan trade routes, the city still carries the charm of an oasis steeped in history and tradition.
From dunes to salt lakes and old medinas, here are the best 10 places to visit in Tozeur that will make your Tunisian adventure unforgettable.
1. Old Medina of Tozeur
The Old Medina of Tozeur, also known as Ouled el-Hadef, is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleyways, traditional homes, and beautifully patterned brickwork. Built with yellow-brown bricks unique to the region, the medina’s architecture reflects centuries of desert adaptation and local craftsmanship.
Highlights: Stroll through the winding lanes, admire intricate brick facades, and explore hidden courtyards that reveal the city’s ancient charm. Don’t miss the local souks selling traditional carpets, ceramics, and handcrafted goods.
2. Chott el Jerid
One of the most surreal landscapes in Tunisia, Chott el Jerid is a vast salt lake that stretches over 5,000 square kilometers. Its shimmering mirages and striking color changes make it a natural wonder that seems straight out of another world.
Highlights: Visit during sunrise or sunset when the colors shift dramatically from pink to gold. You might even spot the famous mirage effect that creates the illusion of water on the horizon. It’s a photographer’s dream come true.
3. Dar Cherait Museum
To delve deeper into the culture and traditions of southern Tunisia, a visit to the Dar Cherait Museum is essential. It’s one of the first private museums in Tunisia and showcases a remarkable collection of art, artifacts, and displays that depict traditional Tunisian life.
Highlights: Explore exhibitions on desert life, ancient crafts, and royal costumes. The museum’s elegant setting, designed like an Arabian palace, adds to the immersive cultural experience.
4. Ong Jemel (Star Wars Filming Site)
For movie fans, Ong Jemel, meaning “Camel’s Neck,” is an unmissable destination. This striking rock formation and its surrounding desert were famously used as filming locations for the Star Wars saga and The English Patient.
Highlights: Walk through the fictional village of Mos Espa, built for Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. The otherworldly desert scenery offers an unforgettable adventure, especially for photographers and sci-fi enthusiasts.
5. Chebika Oasis
Located northwest of Tozeur, Chebika Oasis is a paradise of natural springs, palm trees, and rugged mountain cliffs. Known as the “Palace of the Sun,” it was once a Roman outpost and later a Berber village. Today, it’s one of Tunisia’s most breathtaking natural sites.
Highlights: Hike up to the top of the cliffs for stunning views of the oasis and desert beyond. Follow the trail through the canyon to discover waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and lush greenery that contrast beautifully with the surrounding desert.
6. Tamerza Canyon
The largest mountain oasis in Tunisia, Tamerza (or Tamaghza) is known for its dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Though partially abandoned after a flood in 1969, the old village ruins add a haunting beauty to the landscape.
Highlights: Visit the Tamerza Waterfall, wander through the old stone village, and enjoy panoramic views of the desert plateau. This spot is especially beautiful in spring when the vegetation flourishes around the water sources.
7. Midès Canyon
Just a short drive from Tamerza lies Midès Canyon, another natural marvel that feels like an open-air geological museum. Its towering cliffs and winding riverbed create one of Tunisia’s most dramatic desert sceneries.
Highlights: Walk along the rim of the canyon for incredible photo opportunities. You can also explore the nearby abandoned village of Midès, perched dramatically above the gorge. The site has also served as a backdrop for Hollywood films, adding to its mystique.
8. Tozeur Oasis (Palm Grove)
The lifeline of the city, the Tozeur Oasis, is a sprawling palm grove home to over 400,000 date palms. It’s not just a natural wonder but also a symbol of Tozeur’s prosperity, supplying the region with the world-famous “Deglet Nour” dates.
Highlights: Take a carriage ride or a leisurely walk through the palm groves, shaded by towering trees and crisscrossed by irrigation channels. It’s a peaceful escape that showcases the harmony between nature and traditional desert life.
9. Zoo du Paradis
For a fun and educational experience, visit the Zoo du Paradis, located near the Tozeur Oasis. This small but charming zoo is home to desert animals such as camels, fennec foxes, and gazelles, providing insight into the local wildlife.
Highlights: Watch the animal shows, enjoy a camel ride, and see the famous desert reptiles up close. The zoo is especially popular among families and offers a great way to learn about the region’s natural ecosystem.
10. Nefta Oasis
About 25 kilometers from Tozeur lies Nefta, a spiritual town famous for its “Corbeille,” a large, bowl-shaped oasis at the bottom of a natural depression. Nefta has long been an important center for Sufi Islam and continues to attract pilgrims and visitors seeking tranquility.
Highlights: Wander through the serene oasis surrounded by palm trees, visit the numerous marabouts (tombs of Sufi saints), and experience the calm, meditative ambiance that defines Nefta. It’s a perfect spot to end your journey through the Tozeur region.
Conclusion
Tozeur is much more than a desert gateway — it’s a living museum of culture, nature, and cinematic landscapes. Every corner of this oasis city tells a story, from the ancient medina walls to the salt flats of Chott el Jerid and the mountain oases that shimmer under the sun. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or a history buff, Tozeur invites you to experience Tunisia’s authentic desert life in all its glory.
This region’s magic lies in its contrasts — palm groves against golden sands, tranquil oases next to dramatic canyons, and timeless villages that echo with Berber heritage. Beyond its beauty, Tozeur offers warm hospitality and a unique chance to step back into a simpler, slower rhythm of life.
When planning your visit, consider exploring Tozeur from October to April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for desert excursions. And don’t forget your camera — from the shimmering mirages of Chott el Jerid to the cinematic dunes of Ong Jemel, Tozeur’s landscapes promise memories that will last a lifetime.
In the heart of the Sahara, Tozeur stands as Tunisia’s oasis of wonder — a place where nature, culture, and history unite to create an unforgettable travel experience.
