Sidi Bouhlel is a ravine near the town of Tozeur in Tunisia that would not even be remembered if it were not for all of the Star Wars that were shot in its depths.
The canyon takes its name from a nearby marabout (a shrine built to honor a holy man) of the same name, although it is more commonly known as the “Star Wars Canyon.” The shady divide acted as a number of locations in Star Wars: A New Hope during scenes on the desert planet of Tatooine. The kidnapping of R2-D2 and the rescue of Luke Skywalker by Obi-Wan Kenobi were all shot at the bottom of the stony ravine. In addition to Star Wars, the location was also featured in other famous films such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and The English Patient, but most of the visitors to the site are simply looking to make a pilgrimage to a galaxy far, far away.
From Tozeur, travel east towards Chott el Jerid. Right before you reach the chott, turn left (the sign says towards "DGHOUMES"). Continue on this road for 2.1 km, and then left on a dirt road. The canyon is at the foot of Sidi Bouhlel, just 1.6 km down this road. Sidi Bouhlel is a well-known marabout in the area. Be sure to lock your car door when you park.
rogerbcn
