Mauritania Desert & Train Expedition

Experience Mauritania’s most iconic landscapes and heritage in one unforgettable journey: vibrant Nouakchott, golden Sahara dunes, the ancient caravan cities of Chinguetti and Ouadane, hidden oases like Terjit, and the legendary Iron Ore Train across the desert. A unique expedition combining history, nature, and authentic adventure.

Itinerary

 Arrival in Nouakchott
Arrival at Nouakchott International Airport. Meet and greet by our team, followed by transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, free time to rest after your flight and preparation for the adventure ahead.

Overnight: Hotel in Nouakchott

After breakfast, discover the Mauritanian capital and its vibrant atmosphere. Visit the famous Camel Market, Port de Pêche.

Departure toward the magnificent Azoueiga dunes, one of the most beautiful dune areas in Mauritania. The journey gradually leaves the Atlantic coast behind and enters the vast Saharan landscapes.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the desert, sunset over the golden dunes, and an authentic night under the stars.

Overnight: Outdoor desert camping (Azoueiga)

After breakfast, continue toward the Adrar region and the famous Terjit Oasis, hidden among rocky mountains and palm groves.

Explore the natural springs, shaded canyon, and beautiful vegetation that make Terjit one of the most iconic oases in the country. There is also the possibility to swim and relax in the cool water pools.

Overnight: Auberge in Terjit

Today we continue deeper into the Adrar region. Visit the beautiful Mhaireth Oasis before arriving in Ouadane, one of Mauritania’s ancient caravan towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discover the old stone architecture, narrow alleys, and historic ruins that reflect the rich history of trans-Saharan trade routes.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Ouadane

Explore the legendary Eye of the Sahara (Richat Structure), one of the most fascinating geological formations in the world.

Continue through the desert landscapes and Tanouchert Oasis before arriving in Chinguetti, one of the oldest and most important historical cities in the Sahara.

Enjoy sunset views over the dunes surrounding the ancient city.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Chinguetti

After breakfast, departure from Chinguetti toward Choum. Along the way, visit the famous Amogjar rock paintings and the spectacular landscapes of the Amogjar Pass. Continue to Fort Saganne, the iconic filming location set in the desert, before arriving in Choum.

In Choum, preparation for the legendary Iron Ore Train experience, considered one of the most unique train journeys in the world. Board the train and begin the crossing of the Sahara toward Nouadhibou.

Overnight: On the Iron Ore Train

Arrival in Nouadhibou after the unforgettable train adventure across the Sahara.

Transfer to the hotel for rest, shower, and free time. Depending on timing, possibility to visit parts of the city and the Atlantic coast..

Overnight: Hotel in Nouadhibou

After breakfast, drive back south along the Atlantic coast toward Nouakchott.

Enjoy the changing desert and coastal landscapes during the journey before arriving in the capital for the final evening.

Overnight: Hotel in Nouakchott

Highlights

Tour Highlights

• Nouakchott city • Azoueiga Dunes • Terjit and Mhaireth Oasis • UNESCO-listed Ouadane and Chinguetti • Eye of the Sahara (Richat Structure) • Iron Ore Train adventure • Nouadhibou and the Atlantic coast • Authentic Saharan landscapes and nomadic culture

Included

All transportation (4×4 vehicles) throughout the tour
Experienced local guide
Accommodation: hotels, guesthouses
Camping equipment (tent + mattress)
Iron Ore Train experience
All meals are included during the tour except meals in Nouakchott.
Visits and stops mentioned in the program

Excluded

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for guide/drivers
Meals in nouakchott

Tour Highlights

• Nouakchott city
• Azoueiga Dunes
• Terjit and Mhaireth Oasis
• UNESCO-listed Ouadane and Chinguetti
• Eye of the Sahara (Richat Structure)
• Iron Ore Train adventure
• Nouadhibou and the Atlantic coast
• Authentic Saharan landscapes and nomadic culture