Tag: hiking

Written by

Atoosa Ryanne

As Tunisia’s largest mountain oasis, Tamerza (also known as Tamaghza) features a dramatic landscape of canyons and waterfalls. It sits near the smaller oasis of Chebika and once served as the Roman outpost of Ad Turres.

Travelers exploring Tunisia’s western desert enjoy Tamerza for its epic hikes and views and usually pair it with the Chebika Oasis and Mides Canyon (also known as the “Three Desert Oases Tour”).

For Americans reading this, it truly resembles a Grand Canyon experience (with a unique Tunisian oasis twist, of course!)

What’s up with the two names?

You’ll see the location be referred to as both “Tamerza” and “Tamaghza.” Both names point to the same place, but “Tamaghza” ties more closely to its indigenous roots.

Maps and general tourism mostly use the name Tamerza today, while Tamaghza reflects the original Amazigh (Berber) pronunciation and honors the village’s Amazigh heritage. Thus, from now on, I’ll use the name Tamaghza, as I believe it’s more fitting.

What makes Tamaghza special?

Tamaghza stands out because of its grand, sprawling canyon landscape, which is what earns its fitting nickname as Tunisia’s “Grand Canyon.”

The red and white layers of rock contrast with palm trees growing beside the barren terrain, giving the place a distinctly Tunisian character.

The main canyon is the heart of Tamaghza. You can walk along the edge of the canyon to take in its undeniably spectacular panoramic views, or you can hike down into the canyon to follow the riverbed. For those looking for something active, take on multiple hiking trails. The location offers easy walks to more challenging routes!

Know before you go to Tamaghza (Tamerza)

• Location: Tamaghza is located in Tunisia’s Tozeur Governorate, near the Algerian border. It’s typically visited alongside the neighboring mountain oases of Chebika and Midès as part of the popular “Three Oases Tour.”

Safety Note for American and Canadian Tourists: You may come across government travel advisories about areas near the Algerian border. Use your best judgment, but know that this region is considered safe and sees a regular flow of tourists. For added reassurance (and to support the local economy), consider booking a local guide through a trusted platform such as WildyNess. They can also assist with accommodations and transportation.

• How to Get There: Tamaghza is accessible by regular sedan, though a 4×4 offers a more scenic and adventurous route. Public transportation, such as louages (shared taxis), are not a practical option for this area.
• What to Bring: Sturdy shoes are a must for navigating rocky, uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The best time to visit is during the cooler months (fall, winter or spring). Basically, try to avoid the summer heat.

Interested in visiting Tamerza (Tamaghza)?

Reach out to me! I am happy to help create your dream Tunisia trip itinerary for you. Just comment below or send a note via “Contact Me.”

Written by

Atoosa Ryanne

Midès Canyon is one of Tunisia’s most dramatic natural sites. It’s a rugged, rocky canyon set against the backdrop of a centuries-old village within southern Tunisia, not far from the Algerian border.

As the most remote of the three mountain oases in southern Tunisia, it’s often the final stop after Chebika and Tamerza (Tamaghza) on the popular Three Oases circuit that usually departs from Tozeur.

The canyon’s layered cliffs and panoramic views have drawn the attention of not just travelers, but Hollywood, too! It’s so majestic that filmmakers have chosen this spot as a location for movies such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and The English Patient!

Why is it called Midès?

The name Midès likely has Amazigh (Berber) roots, though the exact etymology isn’t well documented. The pronunciation in local Arabic and Amazigh dialects leans toward pronouncing it “Mee-dess.” Some theories suggest the name could stem from an ancient reference used by Amazigh communities who once lived in and around the area.

You might also see it spelled “Midas,” which could lead to confusion with the Greek myth of King Midas, the one who turned everything he touched into gold. I was admittedly one of those people who thought there was a connection. But the name has no relation, though the canyon cliffs look majestic enough that the association somewhat fits.

What makes Midès special?

The defining feature of Midès is its spectacular canyon with its layered cliffs that wind for over 3 kilometers. The rock colors shift from light beige to deep orange throughout the day.

The residents abandoned the old village of Midès after floods in 1969, and you can still see the remains of the village on the cliffs of the canyon.

The mix of the ruins and multiple colors of the canyon, as well as the green palm trees in the distance, makes Midès extremely photogenic.

Know before you go to Midès

Midès is the most remote of the three main mountain oases (Chebika and Tamaghza), so planning is essential.

• Location: Midès is in the Tozeur Governorate. It is the final stop for most 4×4 tours of the mountain oases.
• How to Get There: You can drive with either a regular sedan or with a 4×4. The latter will give you a sturdier experience, but both are fine.
• Go With a Guide: Booking through a local platform such as WildyNess connects you with regional guides who can take you to all three oases (and more!) These guides offer valuable insights and also help ensure your visit directly supports the local economy. You can also book your transportation and accommodation through them.
• Safety Note: The United States and Canadian governments advise caution near the Algerian border. While it’s important to stay informed and make the choice that feels right for you, this region is well-traveled by both domestic and international visitors. Traveling with a guide adds an extra layer of reassurance, but you will be safe in this area.

Interested in visiting Midès?

Reach out to me! I am happy to help create your dream Tunisia trip itinerary for you. Just comment below or send a note via “Contact Me.”