Djerba 2h Carriage Tour Between Countryside and Lagoon: A Complete Review

Okay, so you are looking to experience Djerba a little differently, perhaps get off the beaten path, well the 2-hour carriage tour between the countryside and the lagoon might just be what you are after. It really promises a relaxed peek into a calmer side of this Tunisian treasure. We thought we would see what it was all about and share everything with you. Here’s our lowdown, what was great, what could maybe be a bit better and overall whether this tour will float your boat.

A Leisurely Trot Through Djerba’s Heartlands

Alright, getting into the nitty-gritty, the countryside segment gives you scenes far removed from the coastal buzz. The rhythm is so wonderfully slow here. The clip-clop of the horse’s hooves is very much your soundtrack as you amble down routes lined with olive groves and date palm trees. It’s not just eye-candy. You very quickly pick up on the rural pulse of the island. Is that local farmers tending to fields the same way their parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents did?

Apparently you will encounter traditional houses or “menzels”, so that are dotted here and there, and small communities which really bring you close to Djerba’s age-old customs and architecture. A very neat and authentic experience if that’s what you are looking for. I did feel the guide was good in offering little snippets of cultural background, yet not overwhelming you with information.

Drifting into the Calmness of the Lagoon

So that’s the countryside covered, next, the shift towards the lagoon changes gears so the landscape moves from fields to open water. It really adds an amazing contrast. It also feels a bit special that is it takes you to sections the average tourist doesn’t always get to see. Expect calm and reflective waters plus diverse birdlife. So, apparently birdwatchers find the lagoon fascinating and whether you are a seasoned twitcher or a casual observer, the sight of flamingos and herons and a number of different species is awesome.

It has a certain meditative vibe to it all too it’s almost, where the endless horizon meets with silence that’s so relaxing. So you get these quiet moments to absorb everything and really get lost in it. Also, there’s some good photography ops here, too, of course, you will want some decent snaps, yet that said just pause to take it all in anyway.

The Carriage Ride: Comfort and Practical Details

Okay so, comfort’s key so pay attention to the carriage. It should have enough padding and leg room as being cramped up for two hours is no fun, obviously. On that score do check everything when you book. How often are the horses rested? It’s quite important that they’re looked after well. Think too about the time of day, the Djerba sun gets pretty strong. If at all possible an early morning or later afternoon jaunt avoids that strong midday heat. Take sunglasses, sunblock and even a hat just in case!

Bottled water is essential on these kind of trips and the guides know this. And ask about toilet breaks too it’s almost, just good practice as you are far from anywhere. Communication will be key to a great tour that so remember if your French or Arabic isn’t great, so that you request an English-speaking guide.

The Guide and Local Interaction

A good guide can definitely bring the tour to life as, after all they’re not just directing the horse, they should bring some of that local expertise, yet do also show genuine passion about their region. Was that us? Ours shared some amazing anecdotes plus historical details that really connected us with Djerba.

Is that also consider to what extent the tour will help support local folks? Does it visit places run by local people or work together with conservation initiatives? Ethical traveling enriches everything.

Worth the Ride? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Basically let’s think about some advantages and disadvantages. The big selling point would be, it is a super-chill way of seeing Djerba, more up close than you do in any vehicle. Then the slower tempo really forces one to ease down and to really observe what is around. And that the change between country and coast landscapes brings interest to everything. Be mindful though, two hours in a cart isn’t the easiest for everyone so maybe not that suited if one struggles sitting still for any amount of time. So just consider whether one might feel that slight disconnection from not properly interacting with local residents and so one might prefer a more immersive experience. However, as alternatives go to a bus tour this really is well worth a shout.

So that You Book with Confidence: Questions and Tips

So a few quick Q&A pointers to smooth one’s tour, check cancellation policies as that’s really useful in case something goes wrong. Is there flexibility to personalize trips? Are one’s specific needs that needs catering for, then find that out beforehand? What’s the group size like so do you fancy something small or do group numbers not faze you. What measures has one’s chosen tour operator put in place to reduce negative impacts to the lagoon as that could weigh heavy on the conscious if one does not ask!

Okay so armed with these thoughts I am absolutely confident you’re well on one’s way to seeing if the Djerba carriage ride sounds awesome. I will state it can be so therapeutic, giving great unique takes on local customs that one probably just doesn’t get any other way. And hopefully you’re very much closer in seeing that Djerba by horse and cart may suit just your very needs.