Driving Distances in Tunisian Dunes
 

Hi Guys,

I'm off to Tunisia do some desert driving (not my choice of country !!!). We will be using two vehicles so will be going into the northern restricted area for some 'away from the crowds' adventure.

I know Tunisia hasn't got the off-piste reputation other Saharan countries has due to the size of the dunes and difficulty getting around/making progress. So, with that in mind, what is a decent distance that can be driven in a day by an amateur group (they'll be driving) without pushing ourselves?

I have been told the further south you go the better the dunes size... any thoughts?

Thanks

Brian

Hello (again) Brian,
In a group of 4 vehicles in December 2006, being guided by a quality local guide, we only managed 14 miles in one day, the next we made 60, that was between Douz and Tembien, and we didn't even attempt some of the larger dunes.
A lot can obviously depend on the time of year, the vehicles and the ability of the drivers. If it has rained recently that can be an advantage as the sand is harder, on top at least.
If you are going a long way south make sure that you stay away from the Algerian border, well away, we'll probably never know the facts, but the Austrian couple abducted in 2006 claim that they never left Tunisian sand before being taken.
http://www.4x4-travel.co.uk/Digging%20me%20out.jpg