Ajim (أجيم in Arabic) serves as the ferry terminal situated on the southern coast of Djerba island, which is part of Tunisia. The local population primarily sustains itself through fishing and the tourism sector. Near the ferry terminal, you'll observe fishing nets intermingled with pottery, ingeniously employed to ensnare octopuses, which mistakenly perceive these setups as secure shelters. Ajim is relatively small, and it may not hold extensive appeal for typical tourists. The ferry, known locally as 'le Bac', facilitates a twenty-minute journey to the Tunisian mainland. With two ferries operating continuously, waiting times are minimal.
Mos Eisley Cantina/Frontage, Ajim.
In March of 1976, several streets underwent significant alterations by film set designers. On April 2 and 3 the streets of Ajim served as the backdrop for the Mos Eisley scenes featured in Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope, most notably the exterior of Chalmun's Spaceport Cantina.
Arriving from the north – likely originating from Houmt Souk, where the airport is located – you'll encounter a roundabout distinguished by a clock atop a central pillar. The initial Star Wars filming site is located on the left side, just a short distance down the street.
Approaching from the south – specifically from the ferry terminal – proceed northwards until you spot a fountain adorned with a fish, situated in front of some restaurants (likely tourist traps!). Continue along the same road to reach the roundabout featuring the clock. Make a right turn here, and prepare for a surprise. You'll discover a small square building suitable for parking a car or moped.
In actuality, Chalmun's Cantina is simply an old, traditional Berber bakery that has been out of operation. It has been closed for some years and the structure is currently dilapidated and at risk of demolition to make way for modern apartments. The surrounding area has already experienced considerable changes, and certain landmarks from Star Wars have already disappeared.
Opposite Chalmun's Cantina, a relatively modern apartment building is visible. Adjacent to this building, only the half-domed wall of the Stormtrooper Checkpoint remains, but with the aid of appropriate reference images, it can be easily identified.
The Falcon Blast Off Alley is situated a few streets to the south. Reaching the precise spot will require some rooftop climbing, but the effort will be worthwhile. Despite being just a small dome, one can easily imagine the two stormtroopers abruptly turning around upon hearing the roar of a spaceship behind them. This scene depicts the heroes escaping Tatooine aboard the Millennium Falcon.
Located three kilometers directly north is an old fisherman's dwelling, which served as the exterior for Ben Kenobi's hut. Further north, at a distance of fourteen kilometers, lies Sidi Jemour, where additional scenes for Mos Eisley were shot, along with a deleted scene for Anchorhead.
If you have a car, taking the ferry from Jorf is the recommended option. Alternatively, if you lack a car, a louage from Houmt-Souk may be the most suitable choice. If you have the entire day then all the locations around Ajim are in walking distance. Due to its small size relative to the surrounding buildings, the bakery may be difficult to locate. Upon reaching the central clock, proceed eastwards and turn right at the first roundabout, walk around 50 meters and the old bakery should be on your right hand. The old harbor and mosque are both easy to find, but a few kilometers north, on the small coast road.
- Star Wars Trip To Tatooine by Mark Dermul with detailed photos
- Sompeetalay in Tunesia Sompeetalay's trip to Tunesia
- The Star Wars Traveler by Gus Lopez and Pamela Gren
- Loms Galactic Tours by Loms
- Stars of the Desert - A journey across the dunes of Tunisia to discover lost "Tatooine" by Brady Walters
- Ben's hut Coordinates: 33°44′27″N, 10°44′07″E
- Cantine Coordinates: 33°43′20″N, 10°45′62″E