In the footsteps of George Lucas: exploring the Star Wars landscapes of Tunisia

Want to experience an intergalactic adventure without leaving Earth? Follow in the footsteps of George Lucas and dive into the incredible universe of Star Wars… in Tunisia! This article takes you to the heart of the magical landscapes that served as the backdrop for iconic scenes from the saga. Between troglodyte villages, salt flats, and lively markets, get ready to walk where Luke Skywalker grew up, discover the secrets of the original sets, and feel the magic of a galaxy “far, far away”… No, the sand isn’t as bothersome as Anakin claimed!

Matmata: the troglodyte village turned Lars Homestead #

Welcome to Matmata, a seemingly discreet little Berber village that is a true superstar for Star Wars fans. Here, the dwellings carved into the rock protect from the scorching desert sun and freezing temperatures at night. At the Sidi Idriss Hotel, the myth comes to life: you will literally sleep in the lair of Luke Skywalker, aka the Lars Homestead. Each room is named after a legendary character, and filming memorabilia adorns the walls. The inner courtyards, vaulted corridors, and shooting posters will give you the strange feeling of awakening the Force, with just a simple lightsaber swing in the shower…

Ksar Ouled Soltane and Ksar Hedada: the granaries of space #

Leaving Matmata, zoom over to the outskirts of the city of Tataouine (does that ring a bell?), in search of the ancestral ksour that look like fortresses. Among them, Ksar Ouled Soltane stands proudly, made up of layered granaries from the 15th century. This is where the slave quarters of Anakin were reportedly filmed in Episode I: The Phantom Menace. The honor is disputed by the neighboring Ksar Hedada, which features a plaque in honor of George Lucas and offers curious visitors a stroll through the home of Anakin Skywalker’s family. If your heart is torn between the two, know that your greatest challenge will be resisting the Star Wars merchandise sold on-site, from lightsabers to the geekiest mugs in the galaxy…

Chott el Djerid: in the footsteps of the twin sunsets #

Ready to scan the horizon, hoping to catch sight of two suns instead of one? Head to the majestic Chott el Djerid, the largest salt lake on the African continent, located near Tozeur. On this endless white expanse stands the famous igloo of the Lars Homestead, solitary. This setting will delight nostalgics, as it appeared in Episode IV: A New Hope, as well as in the following trilogies. The scenery is breathtaking: veiled in mist, bathed in light, it evokes the wildest dreams of any aspiring padawan wishing to explore Tatooine. May the photo be with you!

Djerba: the gateway to Tatooine and Mos Eisley #

To kick off your Tunisian Star Wars expedition, there’s nothing simpler than landing on Djerba Island. This Mediterranean haven has hosted two major shooting locations: the home of Ben Obi-Wan Kenobi (now converted into a fishermen’s warehouse), and even more legendary, the former bakery of Ajim, now the facade of the Mos Eisley Cantina. Even though the building is falling into ruin, its aura persists: “You’ll never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy…” The interior of the bar? Well, that was Hollywood. Yet, there remains a unique atmosphere to discover while strolling through the streets of the island before heading to the Tunisian desert.

Tour circuits for fans and adventurous travelers #

Whether you are an occasional padawan or a certified Jedi, Tunisia offers numerous Star Wars guided tours. These take you on a journey to discover the most iconic sets, often with stops at markets where you can find rare treasures made in a Galaxy Far Far Away. To complete your adventure, also explore the country’s other treasures: Mediterranean beaches, Roman ruins, oases on the edge of the Sahara… Tunisia has a thousand surprises in store!

If movie sets intrigue you, why not continue your exploration to other must-see destinations? Discover, for instance, the best theme parks in Orlando or be tempted by the Pokémon space for kids at Haneda Airport in Japan. Imaginary worlds are waiting for you!

Tunisia, a hidden gem… and a star of the big screen #

Fascinating and eclectic, Tunisia brings together the experience of travel and the magic of cinema. Few places gather so many atmospheres: from the scorching desert shelters of the troglodytes to the mysterious souks, from the Mediterranean magic of Djerba to the endless horizons of salt lakes, each site is a gateway to the imagination. Even if Star Wars was only meant to be an excuse, let yourself also be tempted by this coastal gem in Ireland with breathtaking views, or other adventures around the world – the traveler’s path knows no borders.

Unleash your traveler’s soul… and fan #

Walking in the footsteps of George Lucas in Tunisia makes you realize that our world holds more stunning settings than many special effects. Whether you are a cinephile or simply curious, these Tunisian stops will pique your interest… and who knows? Perhaps you will suddenly feel the Force blowing across the desert.

To go further in the quest for unique experiences, also find the must-see parks in Orlando in Hebrew or explore the Italian list of five unmissable parks in Florida. May the Force… and travel… be with you!