In the Djebel Dahar region of Tunisia, near the edge of the Sahara Desert, locals have been living underground year-round for centuries. Their cave dwellings offer respite from extreme temperatures: summers are hot and arid, while winters tend to be cold and dry.
Cave dwellers—also known as troglodytes—use their homes much like people above ground use theirs. There are designated rooms for sleeping, cooking, eating, and socializing. These unique cave dwellings are connected by a maze of passageways accessible upon entering each home.
Ancient cave dwellings in the small town of Matmata captivate people from around the world—and rightly so. What is it like to live in a cave carved directly into Matmata’s sandstone cliffs? Fortunately for tourists, there is now an opportunity to experience life underground in Tunisia, as a growing number of these cave homes have been thoughtfully transformed into hotels.
Star Wars fans are particularly eager to visit Tunisia’s cave dwellings, as one of them in Matmata appeared in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977). The film’s director, George Lucas, chose this dwelling to represent Luke Skywalker’s childhood home on the planet Tatooine. For those on a mission to explore famous Star Wars sites, a trip to Tunisia is a must.
Staying in a cave in Tunisia allows visitors to embrace a way of life that feels unfamiliar. This experience encourages guests to develop an appreciation for the people who spend most of their lives underground, reflecting a simpler lifestyle. The hotels in this area aim to preserve Tunisia’s cultural heritage.
Overnight stays in a cave are unforgettable experiences for travelers. After all, it’s not every day that tourists get to call themselves troglodytes!