Douz with Children: Camels, Market, Museum

Check the current US State Department and UK FCDO advice before booking. Some border and military areas in the south of Tunisia are closed to tourists, so go into the dunes only with a licensed local operator.

Douz suits families who like short, simple outings: a camel ride at the dune edge, a morning at the livestock market, a museum visit and a play on the small dunes. The heat is the main hazard, so visit from October to April and keep activities to the cooler hours of the day. Carry cash in Tunisian dinars (TND).

Camel rides

Children can ride dromedaries along the dune fringe south of town. A one-hour ride costs about 30 TND per person and two hours about 60 TND, though prices vary by provider. Ask for a shorter ride if the children are small, and agree the length and the fee before you start. Ask to see the animals first. A healthy camel has water, shade and rest, and is not overloaded or limping. Choose another operator if the animals look poorly.

Thursday market

The weekly souk and livestock market is held on Thursday morning. Camels, sheep, goats and cattle are sold, and the size of the camel trade varies. Go early. It is crowded, noisy and dusty, so keep children close and bring water and hats.

Musée du Sahara

The Douz Museum in the town centre opened in 1997 and covers the nomadic culture of the Sahara and the Mrazig people. Check locally for hours and the fee. It is a cool place to spend an hour in the middle of the day.

Sand dunes and the palm grove

Younger children can climb and slide on the small dunes at the edge of the grove, close to town. Sandboarding on larger dunes is better left to older children with a guide. A slow carriage ride through the palm grove costs about 25 to 35 TND per carriage and seats up to four.

Safety notes for families

  • Keep children in closed shoes. Horned vipers and scorpions live in the sand, so never let anyone walk barefoot at dusk, and shake out shoes before putting them on.
  • Quad bikes are not for small children. Where older teens ride, the UK Foreign Office advises a crash helmet, and safety standards vary, so check the helmet and brakes and stay with the guide.
  • Do not pay for photos with captive fennec foxes. Touts hold them near the tourist areas, and every payment supports the trade. Keeping one is illegal.
  • Wind and blowing sand can be strong. Shelter indoors in a sandstorm.
  • Give children water often, and use sun cream, sunglasses and a scarf or turban against sun and dust.

Beyond Douz

Matmata is about 1.5 hours by car, and children find the cave houses interesting, though it makes a long day. Ksar Ghilane has a warm spring for bathing and is a full day. See day trips from Douz before planning either one.

For a camel ride or a family desert outing, see family tours in Douz . The FCDO safety page covers quad bikes and summer heat.

Read more: animal activities in Douz .