Your guide to Douz, Tunisia’s gateway to the Sahara Desert

Let's be real: when people think about the Middle East and North African (MENA) region, they typically think about deserts and camels. Don't lie – you're probably guilty of this (I know I was once upon a time!).

The reality is that all MENA countries have so much more to offer than the cliche, stereotypical desert – including Tunisia, which has a strong Mediterranean Sea culture. That said, the "desert" experiences that you might associate in your head can be found in Tunisia and can be extremely authentic. One of the best places to find these experiences is in the small, dusty city of Douz in southern Tunisia.

The city of Douz marks where the Sahara Desert of Tunisia truly begins, which is why this peaceful oasis town is aptly and appropriately known as the “Gateway to the Sahara" – for good reason!

Located just south of the vast Chott el-Djerid salt flat, Douz gives you a taste of local desert life. Without further ado, let's dive into everything you need to know about Douz.

Why is the city called Douz?

Douz takes its modern name from the oasis town that grew around the traditions of the Mrazig people, a semi-nomadic Amazigh (Berber) tribe. While ancient records mention little about its early history, the Mrazig tribe settled here centuries ago. Their identity has been shaped by life in the desert, where they've had to navigate the harsh desert climate and manage water scarcity. That said, the Mrazig people settled in Douz specifically because the area is a desert oasis with underground water, which made it strategic and ideal for date palm cultivation and livestock grazing – and their general livelihoods.

For centuries, the Mrazig's knowledge of desert travel and survival transformed this area into a caravan hub connecting the Maghreb to sub-Saharan Africa, which isn't too far away given that Douz is in southern Tunisia. The Mrazig people maintain cultural ties to nomadism and camel breeding today.

While you're there, you can visit the Museum of the Sahara for a concise introduction to the Mrazig people. The exhibits cover their clothing, tools, and traditional desert life.

Fun fact: "Sahara" means "desert" in Arabic! So when you say "Sahara Desert," you're basically saying "desert desert."

What makes Douz special?

Douz offers a direct and authentic connection to the Sahara. The town borders the Grand Erg Oriental, a massive area of soft, rolling sand dunes. This is the classic “sea of sand” desert landscape that you may think of when you think of the desert!

Douz is also famous for its camel market and is one of the best places in Tunisia to experience a traditional camel trek. Pro tip: While camel rides can be found all over Tunisia, they're usually targeted towards tourists in order to satisfy their misconceived ideas of the MENA region, as described above. If you intend to ride a camel in Tunisia, you should plan to do it in Douz, where it's one of the most authentic places to do so.

The town of Douz itself has a dusty, frontier feel. It’s a real, working town where the desert is a part of daily life. The main square in Douz is a functional public space utilized by the local community, not a typical "medina" tourist attraction. It’s surrounded by cafés and stores where vendors sell traditional items such as woven rugs, jewelry, and the distinctive hooded wool jackets called qashabiya. There’s a market every Thursday where herders, merchants, and families across surrounding towns come together to sell goods.

Additionally, much of the local economy still revolves around date farming. You’ll see groves of Deglet Nour palm oases and workers preparing for the seasonal harvest.

For accommodation, you can sleep in a Bedouin campground during your visit for an authentic and unique experience. There are many options ranging from basic to luxury. Note that we did not do this because we didn't really think about it and we frankly didn't plan ahead, so we stayed at a normal Airbnb. However, I do recommend seeking a campground experience if you can.

Here's a video snapshot of our Douz adventure:

2025 Travel Guide: Know before you go to Douz, Tunisia

Douz is in southern Tunisia, on the southern edge of the Chott el-Djerid salt flat. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Tozeur, headed east.

While Douz isn't as frequented by international tourists as, say, places in Morocco, it’s considered one of the main tourism stops in southern Tunisia — so they’re used to visitors. This can be both a good and not-so-great thing. The city has a slightly “tourist trap” feel, but also... not. It’s a strange dichotomy.

What to Wear in Douz: Douz is hot, dry, and exposed, especially in the warmer months. You're on the edge of the Sahara, so dress accordingly! Lightweight, breathable layers such as linen or loose cotton will be your best friend. Long sleeves are better than short not just because of conservative dress customs, but also because they’ll keep the sun off of your skin and help regulate your temperature. Be sure to also cover your head to avoid getting a sunburn! Good sunglasses are also a must, because the sun reflects off the sand and it can be brutal.

How to Get to Douz: The easiest way to get to Douz is by car. Louages (shared taxis and the main public transportation system of Tunisia) also connect Douz to other cities and towns in Tunisia. In terms of getting to Douz internationally, Tozeur-Nefta International Airport (TOE) is the closest airport.

Want a local guide in Douz? Consider supporting the local economy by booking a guided tour with a local expert through a platform such as WildyNess. Booking a guide gives you authentic insight into Douz while helping sustain community-based tourism.

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