Timbaine → Ksar Ghilane → Ksour Tataouine — combining the desert adventure and cultural discovery vibes
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure across southern Tunisia — from the untouched dunes of Timbaine to the natural hot spring oasis of Ksar Ghilane, and onward to the ancient ksours of Tataouine. This journey blends the raw beauty of the Sahara with the deep heritage of Amazigh architecture. Experience starry desert nights, camel rides, and centuries-old traditions — a perfect mix of nature, culture, and serenity.
Highlights
- Trek to the world-famous Everest Base Camp
- Enjoy the amazing view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar
- Travel through the Sherpa villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, and Dingboche
- Visit Tengboche the biggest and oldest monastery n the region.
Itinerary
-
Departure from Douz in 4x4 vehicles towards the deep Sahara.
-
Stop in the dunes for photo breaks and sandboarding.
-
Arrival at Timbain, one of the most remote and magical spots in the Tunisian desert.
-
Dinner and night under the stars or in a desert camp.
-
Optional: camel ride at sunset.
-
Early breakfast, then departure through the dunes towards Ksar Ghilane, the desert oasis famous for its hot spring.
-
Lunch at the oasis and free time for swimming or relaxation.
-
Optional quad or camel excursion to the nearby Roman fort.
-
Dinner and overnight stay in a desert camp or luxury tent.
-
Morning drive towards Tataouine, land of the ancient ksours and Amazigh villages.
-
Visit Ksar Hadada, Chenini, and Douiret — remarkable examples of desert architecture.
-
Lunch en route and scenic drive back to Douz in the late afternoon.
-
End of the trip — memories filled with sand, stars, and history.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- ✅ Transportation in 4x4 vehicles with professional desert drivers
- ✅ Accommodation in desert camps (Timbain & Ksar Ghilane) — tents or traditional lodges
- ✅ Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trip)
- ✅ Camel ride or optional sunset excursion
- ✅ Guided visits to ksours and Amazigh villages in Tataouine
- ✅ Experienced local guide (Arabic, French, or English speaking)
- ✅ Assistance and logistics throughout the journey
- ✅ Mineral water during excursions
The Cost Excludes
- ✖️ Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)
- ✖️ Optional activities (quad biking, extra camel rides, etc.)
- ✖️ Entrance fees to certain historical sites (if applicable)
- ✖️ Tips for guides and drivers
- ✖️ Travel insurance or medical coverage
- ✖️ Transportation to/from Douz (can be arranged on request)
FAQs
Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.
On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.
The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.
Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.
No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.
