Ong Jmel — The Lars Homestead & Mos Espa
Ong Jmel — "the camel's neck" — is a dramatic stretch of desert near Nefta where some of Star Wars' most iconic Tatooine scenes were filmed, including the Lars Homestead and the Mos Espa set.
The Star Wars Sites
The area around Ong Jmel hosts two key sets. The Lars Homestead dome — the white igloo-like exterior of Luke's home — still stands against the dunes, and the nearby Mos Espa set, Anakin's hometown from The Phantom Menace, survives as a full desert town of domed buildings.
The Landscape
Beyond the film history, Ong Jmel is a striking desert of sculpted dunes and rocky outcrops, a panorama that genuinely looks like another planet — which is exactly why it was chosen.
How to Visit
- Go with a 4x4 — the site is remote and reached over sand tracks.
- Combine with Mos Espa — the two sets are close together.
- Start from Tozeur or Nefta — the usual base for the visit.
- Sunrise is best — soft light and cooler temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ong Jmel, near Nefta, is the desert site of the Star Wars Lars Homestead dome and is close to the Mos Espa set — both key Tatooine filming locations surrounded by dramatic dunes.
Ong Jmel is remote and reached by 4x4 over sand tracks, usually on a Star Wars day trip from Tozeur or Nefta that also includes Mos Espa and Chott el Jerid.
Yes. The white domed exterior of the Lars Homestead still stands near Ong Jmel and is one of the most photographed Star Wars sites in Tunisia.