Tunisia - Magic of the Desert

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from PL of New York on 20/02/2020

Sample Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival at Djerba airport for a group transfer to Chenini, approximately a 2.5 - 3 hour drive. Accommodation is in a Bedouin camp, with dinner around the campfire.

Day 2
After breakfast, ride towards Chenini, one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Tunisia and known for the legendary mosque of the 7 Giants. Cross the mountains  and stop for lunch along the way. In the afternoon, head towards Douiret where the ancient village consists of troglodyte dwellings carved into the hills. The ksour are earthen fortresses that served as granaries and refuges in case of attacks. They are interesting both in architecture and location. Dinner in Douiret and overnight in at a camp. Approximately 4.5 hours horseback riding.

Day 3
After breakfast, visit the 800-year-old mountain village of Douiret, part of which has fallen into ruins. Return to camp for lunch and in the afternoon, continue the trail through mountainous landscapes before gradually reaching more desert regions. Enjoy long gallops in  riverbeds while passing camels and flocks of sheep. Dinner at Germessa and overnight in camp. Approximately 4 hours horseback riding.

Day 4
After breakfast, embark riding through a landscape that alternates between rugged stony plains and soft, sweeping sandy dunes. Ride until reaching the lunch stop, surrounded by the vast desert silence. In the afternoon, after exhilarating, long gallops across the desert, arrive at the iconic 'Pipeline'. As the day winds down, set up camp for dinner and overnight.  6-7 hours riding

Day 5
Today's ride ventures through the vast dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental, a stunning ocean of sand stretching 600 kilometers from east to west and 200 kilometers north to south, with towering dunes that seem to stretch endlessly to the horizon. After long gallops across this mesmerizing desert landscape, arrive at the tranquil oasis of Ksar Ghilane. Relax with a peaceful camel ride and take a refreshing dip in the natural hot springs before a hot shower and unwinding with a drink at the oasis bar. As the sun sets, gather for dinner and spend the night in a cozy camp under the starry desert sky. Approximately 3 hours riding

Day 6
After breakfast, set off to explore an ancient French fort, perched high on Roman ruins, and offering breathtaking views over the desert. Return to camp for lunch and a rest. The afternoon's route continues with riding deeper into the desert to reach the camp 'Ain Skhouna' an its hidden hot spring where riders can unwind with a refreshing swim. Afterward, enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in a cozy bivouac under the stars. Approximately 6 hours of horseback riding.

Day 7 
Head toward Bir Soltan, where riders may catch a glimpse of graceful gazelles in their natural habitat. After lunch, it’s time to say goodbye to the horses and local guide. Transfer in the afternoon to Djerba. Depending on the arrival time, explore the vibrant souks of Houmt Souk, and become immersed in the local culture while shopping for unique souvenirs. The day concludes with a relaxing overnight stay at the hotel. Approximately 4 hours riding

Day 8
Transfer to the airport. Departure.

Single tents are available at no extra charge but must be requested on booking. Hotel Option: as above itinerary but returning to the hotel each evening (transfers included). There is an extra €15 fee for a single room on the last night at the hotel. Payable on site.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

The horses are Barb and ArabXBarb ranging between 14.2hh - 16.2hh. They are very willing, surefooted and perfectly adapted to the pace and terrain. Their temperaments vary from steady to more lively. They are ridden English style with a loose contact as is common on long distance rides. A choice of Trail or English saddles are available.

The riding starts in the mountains and finishes among large sand dunes and the route offers a variety paces, with chances to trot and gallop as the terrain allows.

Riders must be secure in walk, trot and canter and riding times of up to 6 hours are encountered on some days.
Riders are encouraged to groom and saddle the horses as part of the bonding process.
A reasonable level of fitness and the ability to mount and dismount unaided is required. There may not be convenient mounting blocks in all parts of the desert.

This trail is not suitable for children under 15 years old.

The weight limit for this ride is 198 lb/90 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Small dome tents are utilised during the camping portion of the ride. The camp is prepared by the camp staff and single tents can be requested for no extra cost. Facilities available while camping include a long drop toilet. In the desert, the main purpose of bathing is to remove dust, not sweat, due to the dry climate. Warm water can be requested for washing every evening, and on one night the camp is at a hot spring.

The last night is spent in a comfortable, mid-range hotel with twin or double beds and ensuite bathrooms.

Meals are prepared by the chef and are typically North African: lamb dishes, couscous, tagines, salads and traditional sweets with fresh fruit. Vegetarian food is available on request, however it is not possible to accommodate other dietary requirements at this time. Please check with your travel consultant if you have any questions regarding this.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/tunisia In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Tunisia.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/tunisia

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Desert climates frequently feature large temperature changes from day to night. At the times this ride is offered the days will be sunny and warm to hot while the nights can be very cold. Temperature changes quickly, as soon as the sun comes up the air warms almost within minutes. Likewise at night, as soon as the sun sets, the air temperature drops quickly.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

You should always bring any regular prescription drugs you may need with you.

Tunisia has a well-developed, if somewhat limited, public health service. There are a few private ’polyclinics’ available in the larger towns, which function as hospitals and provide a range of procedures. Some doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payments before treatment. Insurance to cover hospital bills is recommended.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Tunisia and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

Riders need to be relatively fit to cope with the riding and desert climate. Don't forget the sun block!

In Tunisia the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric appliances in Tunisia, if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220 - 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa). Manufacturers take these small deviations into account. If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100 V - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), you need a voltage converter in Tunisia. You can also consider a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter.

Electrical equipment such as video and digital cameras cannot be charged during the trail. You should ensure an adequate supply of batteries to last the camping portion of the holiday.

This riding holiday can involve long hours in the saddle in the heat, so clothing should be comfortable and well-tested. A broad-brimmed hat is a useful addition and high-factor suncream is essential. Boots suitable for riding and walking are advised. Temperatures can drop at night in the desert so a sleeping bag is required but unfortunately it is not possible to hire these. Blankets can be provided and are used in addition to a sleeping bag.
Saddlebags are provided. The evenings are informal round the campfire, no change of clothing is required.

Suggested:
Short boots and half-chaps
Jods/breeches
T-shirts
Fleece tops
Long-sleeved shirt
Warm loose clothing for sleeping in
Sleeping bag and liner
Socks and underwear
Torch (essential for ablutions)
Wet Wipes
Small towel
Swimsuit
Toiletries
Small mirror
Camera
Bumbag
Water bottle

This is an 8 days/7 nights programme with 6 days riding available on set dates. Other dates are available on request for groups of 4 or more.

2025: 5 - 12 Apr* (FULL); 19 - 26 Apr; 11 - 18 Oct, 25 Oct - 1 Nov* (*Confirmed)

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For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com

Large herds of wild camels roam the desert and will be frequently encountered. There are flocks of sheep and goats under the care of shepherds and dogs as there are wolves in the mountains. Birds of prey such as eagles and hawks can also be spotted.

There is a well preserved Roman history in Tunisia.

Languages spoken - Arabic, French widely spoken, English only in tourist areas. Muslim festivals (eg Ramadan) are observed. Theft is rare. The time zone for Tunisia is GMT/UTC +1 and the dialling code is +216