What You’ll Do

A week in the heart of Mauritania’s most beautiful landscapes. This 7-day tour invites you to discover the iconic sites of the Mauritanian Adrar, a legendary region where lush oases, ancient caravan cities, and vast desert landscapes unfold. From Terjit to Chinguetti, passing through Ouadane, the Eye of Africa (Richat Structure), and the unforgettable experience of the ore train, this trip offers a perfect balance between cultural discovery, Saharan immersion, and adventure. Accompanied by a passionate local team, you will enjoy an authentic experience, immersing yourself in nomadic traditions and experiencing Mauritanian hospitality.

Itinerary

DAY 1: Welcome to Mauritania

• You will be met at Nouakchott International Airport by our local team.
• Transfer to your guesthouse or hotel to settle in comfortably after your flight.
• Depending on your arrival time, enjoy your first evening exploring the atmosphere of the capital.

DAY 2: Heading to the Adrar Mountains and the Terjit Oasis

• After an early breakfast, departure by 4×4 towards the Adrar Mountains.
• The road crosses the desert landscapes of Mauritania, passing through Akjoujt, an important mining town in the country.
• At the end of the day, arrival at the Terjit Oasis, a true haven of coolness nestled in the heart of the cliffs.
• Check-in at a traditional Moorish tented guesthouse and your first evening in the heart of the desert.

DAY 3: Chinguetti, the Caravan City

• Drive to Chinguetti with a stop in the magnificent oasis of Mhaïreth.
• Explore the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its sandy alleyways and a library housing precious manuscripts.
• Meet local artisans over a traditional Mauritanian tea.
• Overnight stay in a guesthouse.

DAY 4: Ouadane and the Eye of Africa

• Crossing the dunes along ancient caravan routes to the Tenouchert oasis.
• Enjoy a convivial tea with nomadic families.
• Visit Ouadane, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, before continuing to the spectacular Richat Structure, nicknamed “the Eye of Africa.”
• Traditional meal and overnight stay in a guesthouse.

DAY 5: Atar and the Desert Train

• Departure for Atar with several stops at Neolithic rock art sites.
• Lunch with a Mauritanian family, followed by a visit to the bustling Atar market, a chance to stock up on supplies before your adventure.
• In the evening, travel to Choum to board the famous ore train.
• An unforgettable experience across the Sahara.

DAY 6: Nouadhibou and Cap Blanc

• Arrival in Nouadhibou where the team will welcome you upon arrival by train.
• Explore the city, its museum, and Cap Blanc, a remarkable natural site located on the Atlantic coast.
• Depending on the season and conditions, there may be an opportunity to observe the famous Mediterranean monk seals.
• Overnight in Nouadhibou.

DAY 7: Nouakchott, Markets and Traditions

• Return to Nouakchott.
• Before your departure, immerse yourself in the daily life of the capital with visits to several iconic locations:
  • the spectacular fishing port and the arrival of the boats;
  • the camel market;
  • the Grand Saudi Mosque (exterior view);
  • traditional markets;
  • a Mauritanian art gallery.

Attractions You’ll See