Douz

The "gateway to the Sahara", where the sand sea of the Grand Erg Oriental begins. Camel treks and desert camps leave from here.

History

The Mrazig, a semi-nomadic people, settled around the oasis and still keep camels in the desert.

Customs

Accept the tea offered in a desert camp. Saying no can seem rude.

Food

Taste "mella", a bread baked in the hot sand under the campfire embers.

Best time

November to March. The festival is in late December.

The International Festival of the Sahara in Douz, held each winter since 1910, features camel races, poetry and traditional Mrazig weddings.