Every December, two dusty towns in the inhospitable southern region of Tunisia, far from the Mediterranean Sea or the rainy hills of the northwest, share festivals dedicated to oasis life. Tozeur and Douz, about 65 miles apart, schedule festivals back-to-back to honor their ancient history of nomadic life, camel caravans and traditional music.

A traditional Tunisian dance

Daring Acrobatics at the Festival of the Sahara in Douz

A fire-breathing performer at the Tozeur Oasis Festival

A young horseman at the Festival of the Sahara in Tunisia

A little too close for comfort for a giant king cobra

Don't try this at home!

Read more GoNOMAD stories about Tunisia