Matmata

Matmata, on the heights south of Gabès, is known worldwide for its troglodyte dwellings: Berber families dug large circular pits as courtyards, then carved rooms into the walls. Cool in summer, mild in winter, some are still inhabited. One of them, converted into a hotel, served as Luke Skywalker’s home in Star Wars.

Things to see and do

• Visit an inhabited troglodyte house, with tea and bread baked over a wood fire.
• The village and its views over a lunar landscape of ochre hills.
• The troglodyte hotel made famous by Star Wars (visits possible).
• Tamezret, a Berber stone village a few kilometres away, and its small museum.
• Toujane, a perched village on the Medenine road, known for its rugs.
• The weekly market and local crafts.

How to get there from Djerba

Houmt Souk to Matmata: about 120 km, 2 to 2.5 hours via the Jorf–Ajim ferry then Mareth or Gabès, or via the El Kantara causeway and Medenine through Toujane. Matmata fits naturally into the “Ksour and Matmata” day from Djerba, or as a stop on the road to Douz. Our excursions run with a driver and hotel pick-up.

When to go

All year round: troglodyte houses are pleasant even in summer thanks to their natural coolness. Spring and autumn remain the best seasons for walking around the village and combining with the ksour. Winter mornings can be chilly.