Ksar Ghilane Hot Spring and Villages in Medenine Governorate – A Full-Day Guide

Are you looking forward to exploring the breathtakingly beautiful sand dunes, hot springs, and villages of the Medenine Governorate in Tunisia? Ksar Ghilane is definitely one of Tunisia’s greatest secrets, offering unique day-trip opportunities and incredible natural beauty.

Situated in the south-east of Tunisia, Ksar Ghilane is a desert oasis nestled between the Sahara Desert and the Medenine mountain range. Its hot springs, sand dunes and villages form an unrivaled combination of wilderness, landforms and cultural remains which can provide for a truly unforgettable experience. It is an ideal place for those looking to explore some of Tunisia’s best kept secrets!

In this article, I will provide you with a detailed guide regarding Ksar Ghilane, its hot springs and villages, and all the activities you can do when visiting this magnificent desert oasis. Let’s get started!

What is Ksar Ghilane?

Ksar Ghilane is the biggest oasis in the south-eastern part of Tunisia and the largest one along the entire length of the Tunisian border. It is located in the Medenine Governorate and lies between two mountain ranges: the Tell and Atlas mountains to the south and east, respectively. The oasis stretches over an area of 30 square kilometers, featuring a hot spring as well as a large lake in the center.

The oasis is known for its mirages which appear in certain parts during summertime and its otherworldly beauty formed by rolling sand dunes and small white-washed houses carved into the mountainside. There are plenty of camel trails and small villages to explore here as well as stunning views from the Sahara Desert.

What Can You Do in Ksar Ghilane?

Ksar Ghilane boasts many activities and experiences for visitors, so here’s what to do when in town:

Explore the Hot Spring

Ksar Ghilane is most renowned for its hot spring which lies in an area of two hundred meters at the east end of the lake. This part of Tunisia offers some of the most beautiful hot springs in the world, with stunning temperatures ranging from 16 to 34 degrees Celsius. The hot springs are cleared out of any foreign matter, meaning that you can dive right into its crystal clear waters without any worries.

Spend Time with Local Nomads

Ksar Ghilane also boasts traditional nomads that live in a nearby region, offering a unique experience for visitors. Nomadic tribes take shelter in large tents during winter time and visit other parts of Tunisia during summer months. You can learn more about traditional nomadic life and have conversations with them over lunch or tea.

Enjoy a Traditional Meal with a Berber Family

Tunisia is full of Berber families, whose traditions and cuisine can provide for an unforgettable experience. Enjoying a meal with local Berber families and learning about their culture and customs is definitely an experience you won’t want to miss here.

Explore by Camel

Ksar Ghilane is one of the few places in Tunisia where you can enjoy camel rides. This activity is perfect for those looking for an exciting adventure and for exploring the desert landscape in all its beauty.

Go Sandboarding

Sandboarding down one of Ksar Ghilane’s many sand dunes is a fun way to enjoy your time here. All you need is a sandboard, some sunscreen and you are good to go!

Villages Near Ksar Ghilane

There are many villages to explore nearby Ksar Ghilane, including:

• Djebel El Oust: located south-west of Ksar Ghilane and features a few historical sites such as a chapel dedicated to Saint Laurence.
• Tamria: this village can be found at the end of the Oued Chapela valley at the base of Djebel Zmila, a huge rock massif.
• Kerkouane: home to a few chapels worth visiting which feature some unique carvings.
• El Hadbaa: located south-west of Ksar Ghilane and offers views over many oases around.
• Sidi Ahmed El Sarki: lying twenty kilometers north-east of Ksar Ghilane, this village can be accessed by both car and camel.
• Tamezyine: located at the mouth of Oued El Mourouj, fifteen kilometers away from Ksar Ghilane, this village is known for its traditional architecture.

Planning Your Trip to Ksar Ghilane

The best way to experience all the wonders that Ksar Ghilane has to offer is to book yourself a full-day tour. You can find several tour operators in Tunisia that offer day trips tailored to different interests. Getting ready for a full-day tour requires some preparation in order to make sure you are adequately supplied with all necessities.

Here are some tips to prepare for your full-day trip to Ksar Ghilane:

• Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks: Make sure you bring enough water (at least 2 liters per person) and snacks such as trail mix or dried fruits to keep your energy up throughout your trip../li>
• Wear Sunscreen & A Hat: Temperatures in Ksar Ghilane can reach up to 40 degrees celsius during summertime, so make sure you wear sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
• Bring Non-Slip Shoes: Wear shoes that are comfortable and have non-slip soles as sandy surfaces can be quite slippery.
• Pack Some Cash: Try to carry some cash with you as there might not be ATM’s around.

Conclusion: Making The Most Out Of Your Full Day Tour at Ksar Ghilane

Ksar Ghilane is definitely one of Tunisia’s greatest secret gems and should definitely not be missed when visiting this beautiful country. Its hot spring and numerous villages provide for a unique day-trip experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories for years to come. Whether you want to take on an adventure by camel or learn about traditional nomadic life and Berber culture, there is something here for everyone!

Now that you know what activities are there for you to experience during a full-day tour at Ksar Ghilane, why not book an activity and make the most out of your visit? I’m sure it will be a day full of fun and exploration!