Visa-Free Discovery: Matmata

In the mystical lands of North Africa, nestled in the vast desert stretching southward in Tunisia, lies a hidden gem: Matmata. While this town is famous for its underground homes reminiscent of the planet Tatooine from the Star Wars films, Matmata offers much more. This mysterious town, which captivates both history enthusiasts and adventure-seeking travelers, awaits exploration with its cultural richness and stunning landscapes. Moreover, the fact that it’s a visa-free destination for Turkish citizens adds to its allure.

Introduction to Matmata: Myths and Realities

Matmata is a small town in the Gabès Governorate of Tunisia. The most striking feature of the region is its underground homes, which have been used for centuries by the Berber people. These traditional structures were built around large pits carved out to protect against the scorching desert heat. While legends offer various stories about the age of these settlements, the first written records of the area date back to the 11th century. However, Matmata gained worldwide fame in the 1970s thanks to the Star Wars films shot here. George Lucas's choice to immortalize this unique landscape turned Matmata into a favorite among cinema lovers.

The History and Cultural Riches of Matmata

In Matmata, a settlement deeply marked by Berber culture, you can still witness the traditional lifestyles of the Berber people. The underground homes, which contributed greatly to Matmata's fame, were not only designed to protect against harsh weather conditions but also served as a shield against potential attacks due to their near-invisibility from the surface. The interiors of these homes are surrounded by rooms opening onto spacious courtyards, with each courtyard accommodating several families. By stepping inside these homes, you can immerse yourself in Berber life and gain a closer understanding of this unique culture.

Places to Visit in Matmata

Troglodyte Houses

The main attraction of Matmata, the underground homes, are scattered throughout the town. These houses are made up of large pits dug into the desert, with interiors that are simple yet functional. You can tour these homes with local guides and witness daily life firsthand. One of the most popular stops is the museum house called Casa Memoire de Matmata, which offers a detailed view of the history and architecture of these underground dwellings.

Star Wars Film Set

For fans of the Star Wars series, Matmata is almost a pilgrimage site. The underground home used as Luke Skywalker’s residence is now a hotel. Known as the Sidi Driss Hotel, this location attracts many who wish to stay in a Star Wars-themed setting.

Douiret Village

Located near Matmata, Douiret Village is another example of traditional Berber settlements. Here, you can see structures and a way of life that have remained unchanged for centuries, and learn much about Berber culture from the village’s inhabitants.

Ksour

Ksour refers to the fortified granary structures unique to North Africa. The Ksour around Matmata are impressive structures built by the Berbers long ago and still standing today. If you are interested in architecture and history, these are a must-see.

Matmata for Nature Lovers

Matmata is not only culturally rich but also captivating with its natural beauty. Desert landscapes, steep cliffs, and endless horizons offer a unique experience for nature enthusiasts.

Gateway to the Sahara Desert

Located at the northern edge of the Sahara Desert, Matmata is an ideal starting point for desert explorations. You can join tours from the town to explore the vast dunes of the Sahara, or embark on an unforgettable camel journey. If you time your desert safari to coincide with sunrise or sunset, the experience becomes even more magical.

Tamezret Village

Just a few kilometers from Matmata, Tamezret is a village surrounded by nature. Bearing deep traces of Berber culture, Tamezret also hosts wonderful hiking trails. During these hikes, you can discover the natural beauty created by the desert and cliffs, and feel the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the village.

Matmata Mountains 

Rising right beside the desert, the Matmata Mountains offer a great environment for nature walks and trekking. These mountains provide an opportunity to explore local vegetation and enjoy stunning views. Additionally, by climbing to the peaks of the mountains, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the endless horizon of the Sahara and the unique geography of Matmata.

Accommodation and Local Delicacies in Matmata

Staying in Matmata’s underground hotels will make your time here even more unforgettable. These hotels combine traditional Berber architecture with modern comforts, offering visitors a unique experience. Most of the hotels have restaurants where local flavors are served. In these venues where you can experience the rich tastes of Tunisian cuisine, couscous, tajine, and dishes infused with local spices are particularly worth trying.

How to Get to Matmata

There are direct flights from Turkey to Tunisia, and the visa-free travel option makes Matmata even more attractive to explore. After arriving in the capital, Tunis, you can reach Matmata by road via Gabès. This journey takes about 7-8 hours, with Tunisia's stunning natural landscapes accompanying you along the way.