Audio Guide of International Sahara Festival

The festival is held every year in late December, usually from the 25th to the 28th, turning the city of Douz into the cultural epicenter of Tunisia. The main events, such as camel races and equestrian fantasia shows, take place in H'naiech Square, an open-air arena surrounded by dunes.

Admission to watch the shows in the main square is usually free or very low-cost, although it is recommended to arrive early to get a seat in the stands. Some private events or VIP seating may require a specific fee, arranged directly on site or through local agencies.

The event lasts four days, and although you can see the essentials in one intense day, I recommend spending at least two full days. This will allow you to enjoy both the daytime competitions and the poetry, music, and festive nighttime atmosphere in the city center.

Born in 1910 as a camel race, it is Tunisia's oldest and most prestigious festival, celebrating the heritage of the nomadic M'razig tribe. It is a unique opportunity to witness traditional weddings, sighthound hunts with sloughis, and the deep connection of the Bedouins with the desert.

The best time is to arrive at H'naiech Square shortly after lunch to secure a good spot before the big afternoon performances begin. Although it is winter in the desert, the days are sunny and pleasant, but be prepared because the nights are quite cold.

Accessibility is limited; the ground is sandy and the stadium stands are usually concrete with no elevators, which makes wheelchair access difficult. However, the street parades and activities in downtown Douz are more accessible because they take place on paved surfaces.

You are at the gateway to the Sahara, so you should not miss the immense salt lake Chott el Jerid or the famous troglodyte houses of Matmata, known for being a Star Wars filming location. It is also the ideal starting point for 4x4 excursions into the Great Eastern Erg.

The most important thing is to book your accommodation months in advance, as the city fills up completely during the festival dates. Also, always bring sunglasses and a scarf, as the wind in the stands can kick up a lot of sand during the races.