Signature Tunisia
12 Days
| $ | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr |
| 4ppl | 3,274 | 3,329 | 3,329 | 3,384 | 3,384 | 3,391 | 3,372 | 3,354 | 3,406 | 3,407 | 3,391 | N/A |
| 2ppl | 4,450 | 4,505 | 4,505 | 4,560 | 4,560 | 4,566 | 4,548 | 4,530 | 4,582 | 4,582 | 4,566 | N/A |
Highlights:
Tunisia
(Tunis, El Kef, Kairouan, Tozeur, Ksar Ghilane, Tataouine, Sfax, Sousse)
Trip Start/End:
Tunis
/
Tunis
So exotic is our take on Tunisia that National Geographic Traveler just awarded our customizable trip to this North African country as one of their Tours of a Lifetime!
With its desert oasis, cosmic landscapes & ancient Berber architecture starred in George Lucas's epic series Star Wars, this otherworldly African country makes for a blockbuster of an adventure. Discover its vast mosaic of wonders as you tour Tunis, El Kef, Kairouan, Tozeur, Ksar Ghilane, Tataouine, Sfax & Sousse with the luxury of private guide & driver. Swim at an oasis, see Roman ruins half as old as time, haggle like a local for jewelry at the souks, journey to the gateway of the Sahara, overnight at a Berber camp, visit an island paradise & stumble across abandoned Star Wars sets. Featuring stylish camps, kasbahs & hotels, this private guided adventure promises to truly be a ‘Tour of a Lifetime.’
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Tunis
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Golden Tulip (standard)
|
- Day 2
- Tunis
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Private - Bardo Museum, Tunis & Carthage (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Golden Tulip (standard)
|
- Day 3
- Tunis - El Kef
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dougga, Bulla Regia & El Kef (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Leklil Hotel Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- El Kef - Tunis - Kairouan
| - Private Guide/Driver. - Guide
- Makthar & Kairouan (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Private - Kairouan City Tour (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner (included)
| La Kasbah Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Kairouan - Tozeur
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Sbeitla Tour (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner (included)
| Dar Cherait Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Douz - Tozeur
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Sahara Canyons & Oases - Car/Guide
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Dar Cherait Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Tozeur - Douz - Ksar Ghilane
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Ksar Ghilane Oasis & Ksar Ouled Soltane
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Pansea Ksar Ghilane Tented Camp Tent (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Tataouine - Ksar Ghilane
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Tatouine Tour
- Lunch (included)
- Continuation of day tour
- Dinner (included)
| Sangho Tataouine Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: (None)
|
- Day 9
- Tataouine - Sfax
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- At Leisure
- Dinner (included)
| Golden Yasmine Olivier Palace Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Sfax - Sousse
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- El Jem, Monastir & Sousse (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| El Mouradi Palace Standard (B,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 11
- Sousse - Tunis
| - Private Guide/Driver - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Zaghouan, Tuburbo Majus & Tunis (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Dar El Medina Chambre D'Apparat (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Golden Tulip (standard)
|
- Day 12
- Tunis
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
| Depart from Tunis International Airport - End
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Tunis
Sheraton Tunis
Day 1: Tunis
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer to the airport.
Accommodation: Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers Ideally located in the central business and diplomatic district, the Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers overlooks the entire city of Tunis. Inside, the knowledgeable concierge service will put guests at ease, making restaurant reservations or recommending local attractions. All of the 285 guest rooms feature balconies with city views. The Towers rooms include evening cocktail service and hors d'oeuvres in the private Towers Lounge. Keep in touch with the full-service business center, providing 24-hour Internet and e-mail access through WIFI. The hotel also offers thoughtful services like complimentary parking and a car-rental desk right on the premises. Re-energize at the state-of-the-art SPA and fitness center, take a plunge in the outdoor swimming pool, or utilize the indoor whirlpool with aqua gym. SPA services include everything from balneotherapy, hydrotherapy to massages and beauty treatments.
Saint Louis Cathedral
Day 2: Tunis
Private Guide & Driver.
Enjoy this day of touring beginning with a visit to the National Museum of Bardo. This museum holds an extensive collection of ancient Roman mosaic, considered one of the largest, complete collections in the world. Next, visit the Medina of Tunis, exploring the narrow souk lined streets before heading to lunch. Next, head out to visit the ancient city of Carthage. Explore the ruins which surround this once prosperous Roman city including stops at the Tophet, the Phoenician cemetery, the Punic Harbours, Antonin's Bath, the Carthage Museum and the Saint Louis Cathedral. Continue from here to the village of Sidi Bou Said, boasting spectacular breathtaking views of the Gulf of Tunis.
Accommodation: Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers
El Kef
Leklil Hotel
Day 3: Tunis - El Kef
Private Guide & Driver.
Depart from Tunis and travel to one of the best preserved Roman historical sites in all of Tunisia, Dougga. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Dougga is an outstanding example of ancient Roman architecture, with numerous well preserved columns and structures spread across this 65 hectare site. Next, head out to explore the archaeological site of Bulla Regia, known for its semi-subterranean housing, and outstanding collection of Roman mosaics. Upon completion of the tour a transfer to El Kef is provided.
Accommodation: Leklil Hotel Leklil Hotel is a 3-star property in the town of El Kef
Kairouan
La Kasbah, Kairouan
Day 4: El Kef - Tunis - Kairouan
Private Guide & Driver.
Enjoy breakfast, bright and early in the morning before departing toward the city of Makthar. Formerly known as Mactaris during the reign of the Roman Empire, this ancient location is littered with ruins of Roman architecture. Explore the many arches, amphitheatres and temples of this once occupied city, before traveling to the holy city of Kairouan.
Set out to Kairouan for a walk through this holy Islamic city, founded in 671 by Okba Ibn Nafâa. It centralized location, proved beneficiary in adding to its renowned reputation for unique, elegant carpet manufacturing, which feature across a wide range of mosques. Visit the impressive Mosque Sidi Okba, founded in the 7th century; this marvel reflects the greatness of the Islam Empire during this era. Visit the Aghlabiden pool, the city's main water reservoir, followed by a stop at Saint Abou Zemaa El Balaoui, also known as the "prophet Berber". Explore the old town (Medina) and enjoy walking through its characteristic markets (the souks).
Accommodation: La Kasbah La Kasbah is seated in Kairouan, the focal point for many Muslim pilgrims traveling from around the world. With a simple, Arab-influenced layout and design, the hotel is host to 94 rooms, 2 junior suites, and a presidential suite. Each promises all the amenities of home as well as international phones. Rakada, the hotel restaurant, promises a menu with all sorts of dishes from around the world. Dine a la carte at Sofra. Pass the time lounging by the pool or sipping Turkish coffee at the cafe.
Tozeur
Dar Cherait Exterior
Day 5: Kairouan - Tozeur
Private Guide & Driver.
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer to Sbeitla for some exploration around the ruins of this once flourishing, Roman city. Similar to the monuments at Dougga, Sbeitla is renowned as one of the best preserved Roman, archaeological sites in all of Tunisia. The history of this once bustling city is unknown, but the presence of such megalithic structures led researcher and historians to believe this area was quite undeveloped until the Roman occupation. Next, travel to Tozeur, home to one of the most famous oasis in the world, surrounded by 200 springs, and sheltered by an estimated 400000 palm trees. Upon arrival, visit the Dar Cherait Museum, providing a lively presentation of both the luxurious oriental art of the region and some brief insight into the daily lives of an average middle-class Tunisian family. The exhibition hosts treasures from the Tunisian culture and foreign influences, with emphasis on traditional Tunisian handicrafts. Upon completion of the tour a transfer to Tozeur is provided.
Accommodation: Dar Cherait Get into the wonderful world of the Dar Cherait Hotel, a legendary palace situated in the heart of the Tozer palm forest that has so enchantingly grown from the desert. The beauty and refinement of this palace discreetly fits this unforgettable paradise.
Tunisian Canyons
Day 6: Douz - Tozeur
Private Guide & Driver.
After breakfast, a private vehicle with driver will provide the travel means required for touring through the Sahara canyons and oases. Begin with a visit to the old mountain perched town of Chebika which hosts a natural spring that supplies water to the oasis. Next, travel to Tamerza, a once lively town but was abandoned after severe flooding in 1969. Take a chance to admire the local waterfall before visiting the canyons of Mides, located near the Algerian border. Upon completion of the days touring a return transfer to Tozeur is provided.
Accommodation: Dar Cherait
Ksar Ghilane
View from the Sky
Day 7: Tozeur - Douz - Ksar Ghilane
Private Guide & Driver.
Early in the morning, after breakfast, depart towards Ksar Ghilane Oasis. The warm water spring provides an excellent water temperature, perfect for a soothing bath. After checking into camp, where a lunch will be provided it off across the dunes to visit the Ksar Ouled Soltane, an ancient Roman fort, seemingly abandoned as if to have been drowned by the sand of the dunes.
Accommodation: Pansea Ksar Ghilane Tented Camp A shimmering mirage awaits you in the Tunisian Sahara - nestled at its own oasis in the midst of the desert, offering its charm and shade, its spring and the whispering waters of its seguias: Pansea welcomes you to this hospitable land of colours and contrasts, spices and scents.
Tataouine
Hotel Sangho
Day 8: Tataouine - Ksar Ghilane
Private Guide & Driver.
After an early breakfast, depart towards Tataouine for some touring. Upon your arrival into Tataouine, visit the old hilltop Berber village Chenini, one of the remaining Tunisian villages where the Berber dialect is still spoken. After checking into the hotel, and lunch, hit the road to visit the various surrounding area Ksar, which were ancient Berber granaries used to stockpile crops.
Accommodation: Sangho Tataouine The Sangho Tataouine is a haven for adventurers touring the fortified granaries of the Ksour. The four-star Sangho Tataouine is an architectural gem. A complex of 62 stone bungalows of the local rough red brown stone follow the contours of the hill side on which they are built. The lush gardens along the winding stone paths attract rare desert birds. There is a side courtyard with a fireplace and traditional goat hair tent for evenings under the piercing stars which penetrate the black desert sky.
Sfax
Oliviers Palace, Sfax
Day 9: Tataouine - Sfax
Private Guide & Driver.
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Golden Yasmine Olivier Palace Freshly renovated, Les Oliviers Palace in Sfax, Tunisia, is a sleek choice of accommodations for visitors to North Africa. Each of the 137 rooms promise carefully chosen themes as decided by international designers. Some rooms feature kitchenettes, while all have heating and air conditioning that guest can personalize. Dine at any of the two restaurants on site, which serve a variety of European and local cuisine. Its downtown location gives guest the perfect opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and cultures of this marvellous Tunisian city and it surroundings.
Sousse
El Mouradi Palace Exterior
Day 10: Sfax - Sousse
Private Guide & Driver.
Hit the road for El Jem, a once thriving Roman agricultural region, boasting its grandiose Colosseum, second only in size to that of Rome, attests to the area's great wealth during the Roman reign. The sight of this amphitheatre rising in the distance like a Colossus is both wondrous and slightly strange as the present surroundings give no hint of its former importance. It was the scene of games and circuses during the ancient Roman times, with a capacity of holding 35000 viewers. Hit the road to visit Mahdia, the first capital of Fatimid dynasty, situated on a rocky peninsula, 1500m in length and less than 500m in width. Next, continue to Monastir, a modern resort and harbour town, located along the Dkhila coast. Visit the area Ribat or fortress, this defensive structure was built along the southern coast of the Mediterranean, forming a defensive wall stretching as far as Morocco and Egypt. These walls were aimed at protecting the Muslim empire from sea invasions. Next, visit the Bourguiba’s Mausoleum before continuing to Sousse. With such a mild climate, calm and beautiful coastline it is no wonder why Sousse has long captivated audiences as ancient as the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs, who later all settled in this lovely town.
Accommodation: El Mouradi Palace El Mouradi Palace is an Arabian style hotel which offers high standard accommodation and leisure facilities.
Ancient Roman Aqueduct in Ruins
Dar elMedina
Day 11: Sousse - Tunis
Private Guide & Driver.
After breakfast, the tour begins with a visit to Zaghouan. This quaint town is famed for its roses, which were originally cultivated by Muslim refugees whom departed Spain in the 17th century. Zaghouan is also known as the source location of water used to feed the city of Carthage, via aqueduct, during Roman times. Next, depart to Tuburbo Majus, or Colonia Julia Aurelia Commoda, as it was referred to during the Roman era, which was originally a Punic town converted into a Roman veteran's colony. Continue to Tunis, stopping along the way to take photos of some ancient Roman aqueducts.
Accommodation: Dar El Medina This 12 room hotel is a converted traditional house located right in the Tunis Medina. It features whitewashed and tiled surroundings, with latticed windows. The many-levelled mansion is a surprise after the narrow street, with inner courtyards providing light, space and shade.
Day 12: Tunis
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer to the airport.
Depart from Tunis International Airport - End
Accommodations
Sheraton Tunis
Sheraton Room
Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers - Tunis
Ideally located in the central business and diplomatic district, the Sheraton Tunis Hotel & Towers overlooks the entire city of Tunis. Inside, the knowledgeable concierge service will put guests at ease, making restaurant reservations or recommending local attractions. All of the 285 guest rooms feature balconies with city views. The Towers rooms include evening cocktail service and hors d'oeuvres in the private Towers Lounge. Keep in touch with the full-service business center, providing 24-hour Internet and e-mail access through WIFI. The hotel also offers thoughtful services like complimentary parking and a car-rental desk right on the premises. Re-energize at the state-of-the-art SPA and fitness center, take a plunge in the outdoor swimming pool, or utilize the indoor whirlpool with aqua gym. SPA services include everything from balneotherapy, hydrotherapy to massages and beauty treatments.
Leklil Hotel
Leklil Hotel - El Kef
Leklil Hotel is a 3-star property in the town of El Kef
La Kasbah, Kairouan
La Kasbah - Kairouan
La Kasbah is seated in Kairouan, the focal point for many Muslim pilgrims traveling from around the world. With a simple, Arab-influenced layout and design, the hotel is host to 94 rooms, 2 junior suites, and a presidential suite. Each promises all the amenities of home as well as international phones. Rakada, the hotel restaurant, promises a menu with all sorts of dishes from around the world. Dine a la carte at Sofra. Pass the time lounging by the pool or sipping Turkish coffee at the cafe.
Dar Cherait Exterior
Dar Cherait - Tozeur
Get into the wonderful world of the Dar Cherait Hotel, a legendary palace situated in the heart of the Tozer palm forest that has so enchantingly grown from the desert. The beauty and refinement of this palace discreetly fits this unforgettable paradise.
View from the Sky
Pansea Ksar Ghilane Tented Camp - Ksar Ghilane
A shimmering mirage awaits you in the Tunisian Sahara - nestled at its own oasis in the midst of the desert, offering its charm and shade, its spring and the whispering waters of its seguias: Pansea welcomes you to this hospitable land of colours and contrasts, spices and scents.
Hotel Sangho
Sangho Tataouine - Tataouine
The Sangho Tataouine is a haven for adventurers touring the fortified granaries of the Ksour. The four-star Sangho Tataouine is an architectural gem. A complex of 62 stone bungalows of the local rough red brown stone follow the contours of the hill side on which they are built. The lush gardens along the winding stone paths attract rare desert birds. There is a side courtyard with a fireplace and traditional goat hair tent for evenings under the piercing stars which penetrate the black desert sky.
Oliviers Palace, Sfax
Golden Yasmine Olivier Palace - Sfax
Freshly renovated, Les Oliviers Palace in Sfax, Tunisia, is a sleek choice of accommodations for visitors to North Africa. Each of the 137 rooms promise carefully chosen themes as decided by international designers. Some rooms feature kitchenettes, while all have heating and air conditioning that guest can personalize. Dine at any of the two restaurants on site, which serve a variety of European and local cuisine. Its downtown location gives guest the perfect opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and cultures of this marvellous Tunisian city and it surroundings.
El Mouradi Palace Exterior
El Mouradi Palace - Sousse
El Mouradi Palace is an Arabian style hotel which offers high standard accommodation and leisure facilities.
Dar elMedina
Dar El Medina - Tunis
This 12 room hotel is a converted traditional house located right in the Tunis Medina. It features whitewashed and tiled surroundings, with latticed windows. The many-levelled mansion is a surprise after the narrow street, with inner courtyards providing light, space and shade.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Tunisia
VISA/PASSPORT
A passport is required. For U.S. and Canadian passport holders, a visa is not necessary for stays of up to 90 days.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the embassy of Tunisia for the most up to date visa information
HEALTH
Health insurance is essential. Medical facilities are poor quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/tunisia.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Tunis.
Government: Republic since 1959. Gained independence from France in 1956.
Language: The official language is Arabic. French is the second language, English, German and Italian are spoken mainly in tourist resorts.
Religion: The principal religion is Islam; there are small Roman Catholic, Protestant and Jewish minorities.
Time: GMT + 1.
Electricity: 220/110 volts AC, 50Hz. Electric plugs have two round pins (as in continental Europe).
Telephone: Country code +216.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements with international mobile phone companies exist.
Internet: E-mail can be accessed from Internet cafes in most towns and all resorts.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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