Ksar Ghilane, located in southern Tunisia on the edge of the Grand Erg Oriental, serves as a small oasis and a natural gateway to one of the Sahara Desert’s most breathtaking dune seas. This magical area features extraordinary, biscuit-colored sand dunes that stretch endlessly. Travelers flock to Ksar Ghilane to explore the desert on camel or horseback, or to experience a night in one of the oasis’ Bedouin camps. Additionally, a natural hot spring provides a much-needed oasis to wash away the day’s sand, while the Roman fort of Tisavar lies nearby.
Location of Ksar Ghilane
Top Things to Do
Upon your arrival at Ksar Ghilane, you will likely encounter turbaned horsemen offering their fine horses for a thrilling ride across the dunes. While camel rentals are generally more affordable, horseback experiences are equally enchanting. Many visitors arrive by 4×4 vehicle, where designated tracks provide a great opportunity to practice off-road driving skills. Dune buggies and ATVs are also available for rent, allowing you to traverse the stunning desert landscape. Guided tours can transport you through the dunes to the ruins of the ancient Roman fort of Tisavar, which Berber tribes repurposed in the 16th century.
If time permits, consider staying overnight in Ksar Ghilane. This extra time allows for a stunning sunset ride into the desert on horseback, camelback, or via ATV. As the sun dips below the horizon, watch as the dunes morph from vibrant orange to golden hues, pink, and red, culminating in a stargazing experience under an untainted sky, free from city lights. Between adventures, take a rejuvenating dip in the Ksar Ghilane oasis. Nestled within a grove of date palms and fed by a thermal spring, it offers a warm yet refreshing escape from the desert heat.
Multi-Day Adventures
While many visitors spend just a night or two in Ksar Ghilane, longer desert adventures are available. Siroko Travel offers multi-day treks on camel or horseback, featuring an exciting 8-day itinerary from Douz to Ksar Ghilane. Along the journey, you’ll camp in open bivouacs or cozy Bedouin tents and enjoy meals cooked over open campfires. A reasonable level of fitness is essential, as you’ll mainly be on foot, although your camel will carry essential equipment.
Furthermore, Ksar Ghilane concludes Adventure Treks’ two-week trek from El Sabria southward to the Algerian border. For those who wish to experience a night in the desert but lack the time for extensive treks, an alternative might be an overnight tour to a local Bedouin camp. Experience traditional meals prepared by desert nomads while enjoying hours of stargazing, keeping an eye out for the unique nocturnal animals that inhabit the dunes.
Where to Stay
Travelers will find several accommodation options in Ksar Ghilane. Basic tented camps like Campement le Ksar and Campement Paradis feature restaurants, lounge areas, and bars serving alcohol. These camps are powered by generators, with electricity typically unavailable from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM. In contrast, Résidence La Source provides private hotel rooms with ensuite bathrooms, as well as backpacker-friendly dormitories that have access to shared shower facilities. All-inclusive room rates cover all meals and a camel, horse, or quad bike excursion.
For a touch of luxury, Camp Yadis Ksar Guilane stands as the oasis’ most comfortable choice. This hotel features traditional Bedouin-style luxury linen tents arranged around a free-form swimming pool. Each tent includes air-conditioning, heating, and a private bathroom. Guests can also enjoy a traditional hammam and indulge in a restaurant offering authentic Tunisian and Mediterranean cuisine. Camel and jeep excursions can be arranged from this location, providing a holistic experience of the region.
Getting There
Traveling to Ksar Ghilane typically requires joining an organized tour or driving your own vehicle, as there are no local buses or shared taxi services available. The oasis lies approximately 145 kilometers from Douz, necessitating a two-hour drive. While the main road to the oasis is relatively well-maintained, the sandy paths connecting various camps require capable off-road vehicles. Thus, securing a 4×4 is highly recommended for those planning independent travel to this enchanting destination.
