Ong Jemel (Camel's Neck) - Image 1
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Ong Jemel (Camel's Neck)

4.6
·926 reviews·, Tunisia

Explore the iconic Star Wars filming site of Mos Espa and marvel at the unique Camel's Neck rock formation amidst stunning desert vistas.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Escape the midday heat

CrowdLow
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Ong Jemel (Camel's Neck) - Image 1

Ong Jemel (Camel's Neck)

Best Time

Early morning

Escape the midday heat

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the iconic Star Wars filming site of Mos Espa and marvel at the unique Camel's Neck rock formation amidst stunning desert vistas.

4.6
(926 reviews)

"Absolutely stunning. Nature is unreal here. Plus the Tatooine set is just wow."

Vertical photo
TIP

Hydration is Key! 💧

Bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months. A hut at the bottom sells refreshments.

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

Sturdy footwear is recommended for walking and climbing the terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tatooine Set

The Tatooine Set

Ong Jemel

Iconic Star Wars filming location, offering a glimpse into the desert planet of Tatooine. Well-preserved for its age.

Camel's Neck Rock Formation

Camel's Neck Rock Formation

Ong Jemel

The distinctive rock formation that gives the site its name, resembling a camel's neck.

Panoramic Desert Views

Panoramic Desert Views

Hilltop overlooking Ong Jemel

Breathtaking vistas of the vast desert landscape and salt lake banks. Perfect for photography.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Visit Ong Jemel (Camel's Neck) during the cooler parts of the day, ideally early morning or late afternoon. May can reach scorching 44°C, making climbs difficult. Stay hydrated and wear appropriate footwear for the terrain.

Star Wars Nostalgia & Natural Beauty

Ong Jemel is a must-see for Star Wars fans, featuring the iconic Tatooine set. While some find it damaged, others praise its preservation given its age. The surrounding desert landscape offers stunning panoramic views.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Escape the midday heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Can you drive to the Star Wars set in a non 4x4 car?

Hydration is Key! 💧

Bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months. A hut at the bottom sells refreshments.

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

Sturdy footwear is recommended for walking and climbing the terrain.

reddit.com

Visiting Tozeur Oasis

reddit.com

Should I visit Douz or Tozeur?

Star Wars Fan Must-Do ✨

Experience the iconic Tatooine set, a treat for any Star Wars enthusiast.

Photography Paradise 📸

Capture stunning desert landscapes and unique rock formations.

reddit.com

Recently Visited Tatooine

Tips

from all over the internet

Hydration is Key! 💧

Bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months. A hut at the bottom sells refreshments.

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

Sturdy footwear is recommended for walking and climbing the terrain.

Star Wars Fan Must-Do ✨

Experience the iconic Tatooine set, a treat for any Star Wars enthusiast.

Photography Paradise 📸

Capture stunning desert landscapes and unique rock formations.

4x4 Tours Recommended 🚗

Consider a 4x4 tour for easier access and exploration of the surrounding areas.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(926 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural desert landscapes and the iconic Star Wars filming location at Ong Jemel. The panoramic views from the hills are a major highlight, offering breathtaking scenery. While some note the Star Wars set shows signs of age, many appreciate its preservation and cinematic significance.

"Absolutely stunning. Nature is unreal here. Plus the Tatooine set is just wow. Some say it is in bad shape, I don't agree. It is super well preserved, given it has been almost 30 years ! The set is fragile, it is not stone buildings as you might think. So given that, it is amazing that it is still there. Well done Tunisian people for taking care of it !!
Absolutely recommend to visit."

Nadia Shumilova

"Definitely good place for Star Wars fans, as well as the natural, wild environment photo passionates. 4 stars for cheating camel photo prices, and whole set is half ruined, despite so many tourists coming each day."

Omnomnomnom

"4x4 great but tatooine itself very damaged. It was nice to be here and checm point collecyed but tbey destroy it."

Dar Step

What People Like

Stunning desert views
Iconic Star Wars set
Unique rock formations

What People Dislike

Set shows wear
Heat can be intense
Camel photo prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ong Jemel is located about 30 km from Tozeur. The most common way to get there is by hiring a 4x4 vehicle or joining a guided tour from Tozeur. While there are no direct flights to Ong Jemel, you can fly into Tozeur-Nefta International Airport (TUI) and then arrange local transport. Reddit

Yes, Ong Jemel is generally considered safe for tourists. It's a popular attraction, and many visitors report positive experiences. However, as with any travel, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Reddit

While some parts might be accessible by regular car, a 4x4 is highly recommended for navigating the desert terrain and reaching the best viewpoints comfortably and safely. Reddit

The roads leading to Ong Jemel can be unpaved and sandy in parts. A 4x4 vehicle is best suited for these conditions, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main set area.

Public transport directly to Ong Jemel is very limited. It's best to arrange transport through your accommodation in Tozeur or book a local tour. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There isn't typically a formal entrance fee for Ong Jemel itself, but you might encounter charges for specific activities like camel rides or guided 4x4 tours. Be prepared for potential fees for photo opportunities. Reddit

Ong Jemel is an outdoor natural attraction and filming site, so it doesn't have strict opening hours. It's accessible during daylight hours. Visiting during cooler parts of the day is advised. Reddit

While the Star Wars set is a key attraction, there isn't a separate entrance fee for it. Access is generally included with your visit to the Ong Jemel area. Reddit

No specific booking is required to visit Ong Jemel. However, booking 4x4 tours or camel rides in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended. Reddit

Camel ride prices can vary and some visitors have reported feeling overcharged. It's advisable to agree on a price beforehand to avoid any surprises. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Tatooine set itself offers iconic Star Wars photo opportunities. For stunning panoramic shots, climb the hill overlooking the site to capture the vast desert and salt lake banks. TikTok

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful lighting for desert landscapes. Early mornings are also great for softer light and fewer crowds. TikTok

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone to ensure compliance.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the rock formations or distant landscapes. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the environment and any local customs. Avoid intrusive photography of people without permission.

🎫 🏜️ Onsite Experience

Beyond the Tatooine set, you can explore the unique 'Camel's Neck' rock formation, hike to viewpoints for panoramic desert vistas, and enjoy the natural, wild environment. 4x4 tours can take you further into the desert. Reddit

Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the main set, climb for views, and take photos. If you're doing a 4x4 tour, it could extend to half a day. Reddit

There is a hut at the bottom that sells refreshments and cold water. Restroom facilities might be basic, so plan accordingly. TikTok

Opinions vary. Some find it well-preserved given its age and fragility, while others note it's somewhat damaged. It's an outdoor set exposed to the elements. Reddit

The terrain is sandy and rocky. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the area and climbing the hills for better views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ong Jemel can be an exciting adventure for families, especially those with Star Wars fans. The unique landscape and the chance to see a real movie set can spark children's imaginations. However, be mindful of the extreme heat, especially during summer months. Plan your visit for the cooler parts of the day and ensure everyone stays well-hydrated. TikTok

Consider a 4x4 tour as it can make the journey more comfortable for younger children and allow them to experience the desert environment safely. While the terrain is sandy, it's generally manageable for kids with appropriate footwear. The novelty of the Star Wars set is often a big hit with younger visitors. Reddit

🎬 Star Wars Enthusiasts

For Star Wars fans, Ong Jemel is a pilgrimage site. This is where Mos Espa from The Phantom Menace was filmed. You can walk among the iconic structures and feel like you've stepped onto the desert planet of Tatooine. TikTok

While some parts of the set may show signs of wear, its historical significance as a filming location is undeniable. Take your time to explore, imagine the scenes from the movie, and capture plenty of photos to commemorate your visit to this piece of cinematic history. Reddit

📸 Photography Buffs

Ong Jemel offers incredible photographic opportunities, from the unique Camel's Neck rock formation to the vast desert panoramas. The Star Wars set provides a distinctive, otherworldly subject. TikTok

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Climbing the nearby hills offers elevated perspectives of the salt flats and desert expanse, perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to do justice to the scale of the scenery. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Star Wars Connection

Ong Jemel is famously known as the filming location for Mos Espa on the desert planet of Tatooine in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Visitors can explore the remnants of the film set, including igloo-like dwellings and other structures that evoke the iconic movie. Despite its age and exposure to the harsh desert environment, many fans find the set remarkably well-preserved and a must-visit for its cinematic significance. TikTokReddit

While some reviews mention the set being 'damaged,' it's important to remember that these structures were built as temporary movie props and are not made of stone. Their continued existence after nearly 30 years is a testament to the efforts to maintain them. For Star Wars enthusiasts, it's a unique opportunity to step into a piece of cinematic history and capture memorable photos. TikTokReddit

Natural Wonders and Photography

Beyond its cinematic fame, Ong Jemel offers stunning natural beauty. The site is characterized by its unique Camel's Neck rock formation, a geological feature that gives the area its name. The surrounding landscape is a vast, arid desert with expansive salt lake banks, providing breathtaking panoramic views. TikTok

Climbing the hills near Ong Jemel is highly recommended for photographers and nature lovers. From these vantage points, you can capture the immense scale of the desert and the stark beauty of the Tunisian landscape. The best times for photography are during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, when the light casts a warm glow over the scenery. TikTokReddit

Navigating the Desert Terrain

Visiting Ong Jemel involves navigating desert terrain, which can be challenging, especially during the hotter months. Temperatures can soar, with highs of 44°C reported in May, making exploration difficult if not properly prepared. TikTok

It's crucial to wear comfortable and sturdy footwear suitable for sandy and rocky ground. Staying hydrated is paramount; bring ample water, as a small hut at the base offers refreshments. For those looking to explore further or access the site more easily, 4x4 tours are a popular and recommended option, providing a more comfortable and efficient way to experience the desert landscape. TikTokReddit

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