Diana’s journey to the Sahara…

My camel voyages start and finish in Tunis, and I plan my itinerary around the number of days/nights that I would like to spend in the Sahara, which nowadays is usually five days and four nights. In the past I’ve embarked on voyages lasting fifteen days and fourteen nights, but that was some years ago!!

My journey begins at London Heathrow where I fly directly to Tunis with Tunis Air. On arrival, I take a yellow taxi straight to the El Mouradi Hotel Africa, a fifteen-minute drive from the airport, and an ideal overnight stay in the city centre before the adventure begins.

The next morning I go to the STB bank which adjoins the hotel to exchange my GBP’s into TND’s – Tunisian Dinars. I’m then all set for the Sahara.

My good friend Belgacem is waiting for me in the hotel car park, and we begin the seven hour drive to the deep south in his Citroen, stopping for a delicious lunch in El Jem en route, finally arriving at the Hotel Sahara Douz just in time for dinner!

The Hotel Sahara Douz is situated on the edge of the Douz Oasis, overlooking the Sahara. I have made this hotel my home from home, staying two nights before, and one or two nights after, the demands of the camel trek. It has a lovely garden and pool, an excellent bar and restaurant, as well as a beauty spa. The delightful staff are exceptionally kind and helpful.

After a couple of nights, it is time to head to Sabria, where I meet up with Adel and his team, and of course my beloved camel Zeydoun! Finally, the moment has come to set forth on the Saharan adventure …

Sometimes I extend my stay in Tunisia by taking in a visit to the Isle of Djerba, which can be easily organised either before or after the desert voyage. Below are details of my favourite hotels:

Hotel Dar Faiza where I am deeply honoured to have a room named after me! The hotel is within easy walking distance of the bustling town of Houmt Souk, also the harbour where lunch or dinner at the elegant Restaurant Haroun is a must. I have made some lovely friends and purchases in the local shops: scarves, sarongs, mosaics, baskets, rugs, bedspreads, made to measure tunic tops – all crafted in Tunisia.

Hotel Dar Salem in the Zone Touristique, is where I stay when I prefer to be by the Mediterranean sea, with the beach just footsteps away, and where horse and camel rides await…

Hotel Dar Dhiafa a luxury boutique hotel in the inland town of Erriadh, and a short walk away from the El Ghriba Synagogue.