Tunisia Eclipse Explorer 2027

DAY 1: Arrive in Tunis. Meet and Greet at the airport and transfer to your hotel
Upon arrival in Tunis, our staff will meet you at the airport, assist with luggage, and then transfer you to your hotel to begin your trip. They will help you settle in, introduce you to the local area, and explain tomorrow's arrangements. The rest of the day is free. If you arrive early, you may like to explore the historic medina of Tunis or take a walk along the Avenue Habib Bourguiba.

OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel

MEALS:
None

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 2: Carthage, Wine Tasting & El Jem. Drive to Sfax.
Your day begins with a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, allowing you time to enjoy fresh local produce and prepare for the journey ahead. Once refreshed, you will depart for a guided exploration of the archaeological site of Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical significance. As you walk through the scattered ruins, you will encounter the remnants of a civilisation that once vied for control of the Mediterranean. Key highlights of the visit include the Antonine Baths, which were the largest Roman baths built on the African continent, and the ancient Punic Ports, offering a window into the naval power of ancient Carthage.

Following the historical immersion of the morning, the tour proceeds to the Grombalia region for a wine tasting experience. Situated in the picturesque foothills of Sidi Salem, this estate captures the essence of Tunisian viticulture, a tradition stretching back to the Phoenicians. You will have the opportunity to tour the vineyards and cellars before sampling a selection of their renowned wines, particularly the rich reds and rosés crafted from Syrah and Grenache grapes, often paired with local artisanal snacks.

In the afternoon, the journey heads south to the town of El Jem to witness one of the most spectacular examples of Roman engineering in the world. The UNESCO-listed Amphitheatre of El Jem, dating back to the 3rd century, is incredibly well-preserved and once held up to 35,000 spectators. You will be able to explore the vast arena floor and descend into the complex underground tunnels where gladiators and wild beasts were kept, gaining a visceral sense of the spectacle that defined the Roman era in North Africa.

As the day draws to a close, you will enjoy a scenic drive to Sfax, Tunisia’s second-largest city. Unlike the resort towns, Sfax is a bustling economic centre with a distinct, authentic character. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel for the evening, settling in to rest after a day traversing the country’s rich history and landscapes.

OVERNIGHT:
Sfax Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 3: Witness the total solar eclipse
We will head south from Sfax to a prime viewing location beside Chaffar Beach, perfectly situated along the path of totality for the total solar eclipse of 2027. On Monday, 2 August, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness this once-in-a-century astronomical event. The partial eclipse is expected to begin in the morning, with totality occurring at approximately 10:11 AM (local time).

At this specially selected site, you will experience up to 5 minutes and 39 seconds of breathtaking total darkness as the moon fully obscures the sun. We have ensured this location provides a comfortable and secure environment for our guests. You will have access to shaded areas to protect you from the sun, complimentary refreshments, and clean restroom facilities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this spectacular celestial event without any concerns. After the eclipse, you will have some free time to relax or explore the local area before we return to Sfax for an overnight stay.

OVERNIGHT:
Sfax Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 4: Drive to Matmata. Visit Sidi Idriss (from Star Wars), Troglodyte houses & Tamezret Museum. Drive to Douz.
The journey continues south towards Matmata, traversing a rugged terrain that shifts dramatically into a lunar-like landscape. Upon arrival, you will explore the region's famous troglodyte architecture, where homes are excavated deep into the ground to provide natural insulation against the desert heat. A highlight of this visit is the Hotel Sidi Idriss, an iconic site for film enthusiasts; its unique pit courtyards served as the filming location for the Lars Homestead on the planet Tatooine in the Star Wars saga.

Following the exploration of Matmata, you will travel to the nearby hilltop village of Tamezret to visit its dedicated museum. This stop offers a fascinating immersion into indigenous culture, showcasing traditional Berber clothing, jewellery, and tools that tell the story of the Amazigh people's resilience and history in this arid environment.

The day concludes with a drive to Douz, affectionately known as the 'Gateway to the Sahara'. Here, the landscape transforms once more as the rocky scrubland gives way to the vast, golden dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental. You will have the opportunity to experience the desert firsthand with a choice of adventure: an exhilarating quad bike ride across the shifting sands or a traditional camel trek, allowing you to watch the sunset over the dunes in timeless tranquillity.

OVERNIGHT:
Douz Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 5: Explore Douz Souk. Drive through Chott el-Jerid salt lake. Head to Tozeur.
Your morning begins with a visit to the vibrant souk of Douz. Located in the town square, this market offers an authentic glimpse into desert life, where traders gather to sell everything from colourful spices and traditional Bedouin jewellery to handcrafted leather goods. It is a bustling hub of activity that perfectly captures the spirit of the 'Gateway to the Sahara', allowing you to browse for unique souvenirs and observe local customs.

Leaving the desert town behind, you will embark on a spectacular drive across the Chott Jerid, the largest salt lake in the Sahara. This vast, shimmering expanse stretches for thousands of square kilometres, creating a surreal landscape where the salt crust often sparkles in white, pink, and purple hues under the sun. You will stop here to capture photographs of this otherworldly phenomenon, where the horizon often blurs with heat mirages, offering one of the most striking visual experiences in Tunisia.

The journey concludes in the historic city of Tozeur, renowned for its distinctive yellow brick architecture arranged in intricate geometric patterns. You will explore the city and its celebrated oasis, a sprawling palm grove fed by natural springs that stands in stark contrast to the surrounding arid environment. Walking beneath the shade of hundreds of thousands of date palms, you will discover an ancient and complex irrigation system that has sustained this verdant paradise for centuries.

OVERNIGHT:
Tozeur hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 6: Visit the Oases of Chebika, Tamaghza & Mides. Off-road journey to Ong Jmal
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, the day begins with an exploration of the stunning mountain oases nestled near the Algerian border. You will venture first to Chebika, often called the 'Castle of the Sun', where crystal-clear springs cascade into natural pools amidst steep ravines. The journey continues to Tamaghza, the largest of the mountain oases known for its tumbling waterfalls and abandoned old village, and finally to Mides, famous for its dramatic canyon that offers breathtaking views over the rugged landscape.

In the afternoon, the pace quickens with an exhilarating off-road 4x4 expedition to Ong Jmal, named for a prominent rock formation resembling a camel's neck. This journey takes you deep into the desert to visit the Mos Espa film set, famously featured in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Standing among the galactic spaceport's structures surrounded by vast dunes provides a surreal experience, transporting you directly into the cinematic universe of George Lucas.

Later in the day, we'll make the journey back towards Tozeur. You will return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

OVERNIGHT:
Tozeur Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 7: Exploring spiritual Kairouan. Return to Tunis
The day commences with a drive to Kairouan, a city of immense spiritual significance often regarded as the fourth holiest site in the Islamic world. Your first destination is the Great Mosque of Okba Ibn Nafaa, a masterpiece of architecture founded in 670 AD. As the oldest place of worship in North Africa, it impresses with its fortress-like exterior, a vast marble-paved courtyard, and a prayer hall supported by a forest of columns, many of which were repurposed from ancient Roman and Byzantine sites.

Following the visit to the mosque, you will delve into the historic heart of the city to explore the UNESCO-listed Medina of Kairouan. Enclosed within crenellated brick walls, this labyrinth of winding alleyways and whitewashed houses offers a captivating glimpse into traditional Tunisian life. As you wander through the souks, you will have the chance to admire the region’s famous intricate carpets and perhaps sample makroudh, a celebrated local pastry filled with dates and honey.

Concluding your cultural exploration, you will continue north, back to Tunis.

OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 8: Visit the Bardo Museum, Tunis Medina and Sidi Bou Said
Your day begins with a cultural immersion at the Bardo National Museum, housed within a magnificent 19th-century Beylical palace. This world-class institution is renowned for hosting one of the largest and most exquisite collections of Roman mosaics in existence. As you wander through its opulent halls, you will traverse Tunisia’s rich timeline, viewing masterpieces that range from Punic artefacts to Hellenistic bronze treasures, all set against the backdrop of stunning Arabic-Andalusian architecture.

From the grandeur of the Bardo, you will move to the vibrant heart of the capital to explore the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entering through the historic Bab el Bhar (Sea Gate), you will step into a sprawling labyrinth of covered alleyways, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards. This living monument offers a sensory overload of scents and sounds, where you can observe artisans crafting copperware, leather, and perfumes much as they have for centuries, all surrounding the majestic Zitouna Mosque.

The afternoon is dedicated to the picturesque coastal village of Sidi Bou Said, perched high atop a cliff overlooking the azure Gulf of Tunis. Famous for its harmonious blue-and-white architecture, this artistic haven offers a tranquil contrast to the city's energy. You can stroll along its cobblestone streets, admire the intricate studded doors and cascading bougainvillea, and perhaps enjoy a traditional pine nut mint tea at a cliffside café while soaking in the panoramic sea views.

OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 9: Transfer to Tunis Airport for departure
Your time is free today until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. Extensions are available to add onto the end of the tour to spend some time by the sea.

OVERNIGHT:
N/A

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 1: Arrive in Tunis. Meet and Greet at the airport and transfer to your hotel
Upon arrival in Tunis, our staff will meet you at the airport, assist with luggage, and then transfer you to your hotel to begin your trip. They will help you settle in, introduce you to the local area, and explain tomorrow's arrangements. The rest of the day is free. If you arrive early, you may like to explore the historic medina of Tunis or take a walk along the Avenue Habib Bourguiba.

OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel

MEALS:
None

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 2: Carthage, Wine Tasting & El Jem. Drive to Sfax.
Your day begins with a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, allowing you time to enjoy fresh local produce and prepare for the journey ahead. Once refreshed, you will depart for a guided exploration of the archaeological site of Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical significance. As you walk through the scattered ruins, you will encounter the remnants of a civilisation that once vied for control of the Mediterranean. Key highlights of the visit include the Antonine Baths, which were the largest Roman baths built on the African continent, and the ancient Punic Ports, offering a window into the naval power of ancient Carthage.

Following the historical immersion of the morning, the tour proceeds to the Grombalia region for a wine tasting experience. Situated in the picturesque foothills of Sidi Salem, this estate captures the essence of Tunisian viticulture, a tradition stretching back to the Phoenicians. You will have the opportunity to tour the vineyards and cellars before sampling a selection of their renowned wines, particularly the rich reds and rosés crafted from Syrah and Grenache grapes, often paired with local artisanal snacks.

In the afternoon, the journey heads south to the town of El Jem to witness one of the most spectacular examples of Roman engineering in the world. The UNESCO-listed Amphitheatre of El Jem, dating back to the 3rd century, is incredibly well-preserved and once held up to 35,000 spectators. You will be able to explore the vast arena floor and descend into the complex underground tunnels where gladiators and wild beasts were kept, gaining a visceral sense of the spectacle that defined the Roman era in North Africa.

As the day draws to a close, you will enjoy a scenic drive to Sfax, Tunisia’s second-largest city. Unlike the resort towns, Sfax is a bustling economic centre with a distinct, authentic character. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel for the evening, settling in to rest after a day traversing the country’s rich history and landscapes.

OVERNIGHT:
Sfax Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 3: Witness the total solar eclipse
We will head south from Sfax to a prime viewing location beside Chaffar Beach, perfectly situated along the path of totality for the total solar eclipse of 2027. On Monday, 2 August, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness this once-in-a-century astronomical event. The partial eclipse is expected to begin in the morning, with totality occurring at approximately 10:11 AM (local time).

At this specially selected site, you will experience up to 5 minutes and 39 seconds of breathtaking total darkness as the moon fully obscures the sun. We have ensured this location provides a comfortable and secure environment for our guests. You will have access to shaded areas to protect you from the sun, complimentary refreshments, and clean restroom facilities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this spectacular celestial event without any concerns. After the eclipse, you will have some free time to relax or explore the local area before we return to Sfax for an overnight stay.

OVERNIGHT:
Sfax Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 4: Drive to Matmata. Visit Sidi Idriss (from Star Wars), Troglodyte houses & Tamezret Museum. Drive to Douz.
The journey continues south towards Matmata, traversing a rugged terrain that shifts dramatically into a lunar-like landscape. Upon arrival, you will explore the region's famous troglodyte architecture, where homes are excavated deep into the ground to provide natural insulation against the desert heat. A highlight of this visit is the Hotel Sidi Idriss, an iconic site for film enthusiasts; its unique pit courtyards served as the filming location for the Lars Homestead on the planet Tatooine in the Star Wars saga.

Following the exploration of Matmata, you will travel to the nearby hilltop village of Tamezret to visit its dedicated museum. This stop offers a fascinating immersion into indigenous culture, showcasing traditional Berber clothing, jewellery, and tools that tell the story of the Amazigh people's resilience and history in this arid environment.

The day concludes with a drive to Douz, affectionately known as the 'Gateway to the Sahara'. Here, the landscape transforms once more as the rocky scrubland gives way to the vast, golden dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental. You will have the opportunity to experience the desert firsthand with a choice of adventure: an exhilarating quad bike ride across the shifting sands or a traditional camel trek, allowing you to watch the sunset over the dunes in timeless tranquillity.

OVERNIGHT:
Douz Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 5: Explore Douz Souk. Drive through Chott el-Jerid salt lake. Head to Tozeur.
Your morning begins with a visit to the vibrant souk of Douz. Located in the town square, this market offers an authentic glimpse into desert life, where traders gather to sell everything from colourful spices and traditional Bedouin jewellery to handcrafted leather goods. It is a bustling hub of activity that perfectly captures the spirit of the 'Gateway to the Sahara', allowing you to browse for unique souvenirs and observe local customs.

Leaving the desert town behind, you will embark on a spectacular drive across the Chott Jerid, the largest salt lake in the Sahara. This vast, shimmering expanse stretches for thousands of square kilometres, creating a surreal landscape where the salt crust often sparkles in white, pink, and purple hues under the sun. You will stop here to capture photographs of this otherworldly phenomenon, where the horizon often blurs with heat mirages, offering one of the most striking visual experiences in Tunisia.

The journey concludes in the historic city of Tozeur, renowned for its distinctive yellow brick architecture arranged in intricate geometric patterns. You will explore the city and its celebrated oasis, a sprawling palm grove fed by natural springs that stands in stark contrast to the surrounding arid environment. Walking beneath the shade of hundreds of thousands of date palms, you will discover an ancient and complex irrigation system that has sustained this verdant paradise for centuries.

OVERNIGHT:
Tozeur hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 6: Visit the Oases of Chebika, Tamaghza & Mides. Off-road journey to Ong Jmal
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, the day begins with an exploration of the stunning mountain oases nestled near the Algerian border. You will venture first to Chebika, often called the 'Castle of the Sun', where crystal-clear springs cascade into natural pools amidst steep ravines. The journey continues to Tamaghza, the largest of the mountain oases known for its tumbling waterfalls and abandoned old village, and finally to Mides, famous for its dramatic canyon that offers breathtaking views over the rugged landscape.

In the afternoon, the pace quickens with an exhilarating off-road 4x4 expedition to Ong Jmal, named for a prominent rock formation resembling a camel's neck. This journey takes you deep into the desert to visit the Mos Espa film set, famously featured in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Standing among the galactic spaceport's structures surrounded by vast dunes provides a surreal experience, transporting you directly into the cinematic universe of George Lucas.

Later in the day, we'll make the journey back towards Tozeur. You will return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

OVERNIGHT:
Tozeur Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 7: Exploring spiritual Kairouan. Return to Tunis
The day commences with a drive to Kairouan, a city of immense spiritual significance often regarded as the fourth holiest site in the Islamic world. Your first destination is the Great Mosque of Okba Ibn Nafaa, a masterpiece of architecture founded in 670 AD. As the oldest place of worship in North Africa, it impresses with its fortress-like exterior, a vast marble-paved courtyard, and a prayer hall supported by a forest of columns, many of which were repurposed from ancient Roman and Byzantine sites.

Following the visit to the mosque, you will delve into the historic heart of the city to explore the UNESCO-listed Medina of Kairouan. Enclosed within crenellated brick walls, this labyrinth of winding alleyways and whitewashed houses offers a captivating glimpse into traditional Tunisian life. As you wander through the souks, you will have the chance to admire the region’s famous intricate carpets and perhaps sample makroudh, a celebrated local pastry filled with dates and honey.

Concluding your cultural exploration, you will continue north, back to Tunis.

OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 8: Visit the Bardo Museum, Tunis Medina and Sidi Bou Said
Your day begins with a cultural immersion at the Bardo National Museum, housed within a magnificent 19th-century Beylical palace. This world-class institution is renowned for hosting one of the largest and most exquisite collections of Roman mosaics in existence. As you wander through its opulent halls, you will traverse Tunisia’s rich timeline, viewing masterpieces that range from Punic artefacts to Hellenistic bronze treasures, all set against the backdrop of stunning Arabic-Andalusian architecture.

From the grandeur of the Bardo, you will move to the vibrant heart of the capital to explore the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entering through the historic Bab el Bhar (Sea Gate), you will step into a sprawling labyrinth of covered alleyways, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards. This living monument offers a sensory overload of scents and sounds, where you can observe artisans crafting copperware, leather, and perfumes much as they have for centuries, all surrounding the majestic Zitouna Mosque.

The afternoon is dedicated to the picturesque coastal village of Sidi Bou Said, perched high atop a cliff overlooking the azure Gulf of Tunis. Famous for its harmonious blue-and-white architecture, this artistic haven offers a tranquil contrast to the city's energy. You can stroll along its cobblestone streets, admire the intricate studded doors and cascading bougainvillea, and perhaps enjoy a traditional pine nut mint tea at a cliffside café while soaking in the panoramic sea views.

OVERNIGHT:
Tunis Hotel

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None

DAY 9: Transfer to Tunis Airport for departure
Your time is free today until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. Extensions are available to add onto the end of the tour to spend some time by the sea.

OVERNIGHT:
N/A

MEALS:
Breakfast

EXTRAS:
None