Discover Mauritania’s UNESCO World Heritage treasures on this 8-day journey. You’ll ride the famous Iron Ore Train across the desert, explore ancient manuscript libraries in Chinguetti and Ouadane, and camp under brilliant Sahara stars. October marks the return of perfect weather after summer—ideal temperatures for exploring ancient cities and desert landscapes.
Everything’s included: logistics, accommodations, meals, your guide, and of course—the Iron Ore Train ride with your guide right beside you.
📸 Want to see what you’ll experience? Browse our tour photo gallery
🏛️ Tour Highlights:
✨ What’s Included:
💰 Not Included:
🔄 Flexible Cancellation:
Major airlines fly to Nouakchott daily from the US (via Morocco) and Europe, including Air France, Royal Air Maroc, and Air Mauritania. Get in touch and we'll help you find the best flight from your location! Our team will greet you at Oumtounsy International Airport and transfer you directly to your hotel in Nouakchott. Flexible arrival: You can arrive anytime on October 6 or even up to 24 hours earlier (October 5). We've got you covered! The tour officially starts on the morning of October 7 when we head to the desert.
Starting from Nouakchott, we’ll embark on a 7-hour journey across the northern desert of the Adrar region, making several stops along the way for photography. After about 5 hours, we’ll stop for lunch under the shade of an Acacia tree, offering a peaceful break before continuing our journey. Upon reaching our destination, the tallest sand dunes in the country, we’ll set up camp in the stunning desert landscape and enjoy the serene surroundings around the campfire.
In the morning, we’ll drive towards Terjit Oasis – The Hidden Oasis, embarking on a 3-hour journey from Azoueiga. Along the way, we’ll stop for a lunch picnic at Tivougar before continuing. Afterward, we’ll drive for another 1.5 hours to reach Terjit Oasis, also known as the Hidden Oasis. Once we arrive, we’ll explore this beautiful oasis, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes. Afterward, we’ll set up camp and spend the night under the stars.
We’ll begin the day with a 4-hour drive towards the Richat Structure, also known as the Eyes of Africa. Upon arrival, we’ll explore this incredible geological formation, which is one of the most striking natural landmarks in Mauritania. After our visit to the Richat Structure, we’ll continue for another 1.5-hour drive to reach Ouadane. Once there, we’ll check into our accommodation, enjoy lunch, and have time to rest. In the evening, we’ll visit the historical town of Ouadane, one of the oldest and most culturally significant towns in Mauritania.
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 3-hour journey to reach Chinguetti, stopping along the way to stretch our legs and enjoy the desert beauty up close. Once in Chinguetti, we’ll start with a guided tour of the town’s ancient library, where the librarian will give us a history lesson about this UNESCO World Heritage site. Following the library visit, we’ll take a walking tour around the UNESCO-listed town and visit the Grand Mosque of Chinguetti, a stunning example of traditional Islamic architecture, built by the town's founders.
The highlight of our journey begins as we drive towards Tmeimichat, passing by the Choum Tunnel & the World's 2nd Largest Monolith, when arriving at Tmeimichat we’ll prepare everything, including snacks, for the Iron Ore Train experience. Once ready, we’ll board the iconic train and embark on an unforgettable ride across the Sahara Desert. This 6-hour train ride will give us ample time to enjoy the mesmerizing desert views as we ride atop one of the world’s largest trains. The vast Sahara landscape stretches out before us, offering stunning vistas. As night falls, we’ll witness the bright stars lighting up the clear desert sky, making this journey truly magical.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and take the rest of the day to unwind and relax. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a leisurely exploration of the city and visit Cape Blanc, taking in the peaceful coastal views.
In the morning, we’ll depart from Nouadhibou and begin our 5-hour drive towards Tiwilit, where the sand meets the ocean. After arriving in Tiwilit, we’ll stop for lunch and take in the unique views of the desert meeting the Atlantic coastline. After lunch, we’ll continue our journey, driving for 1 hour to Nouakchott. Upon arrival, we will do a quick visit at the camel market and witness the sunset at port de pech, then check into our hotel and spend the evening at leisure. In the evening, we’ll have our last dinner together at the hotel, reflecting on the memorable journey. The following day, we’ll drop you off at Nouakchott International Airport for your flight home.
Reserve your ideal trip early for a hassle-free trip; secure comfort and convenience!
Comments (4)
Hadi Ali,
12 December, 2025Are you able to help me with transportation after the tour to cross the border to Senegal by road to say St. Louis ? any idea how kong it takes and how much ? many thanks
Baba Ahmed,
01 January, 2026Sorry for the delayed reply 🙏
It usually takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach the St Louis from the nouakchott, and you’ll get a shared car. The price is 3,000 MRU (approximately 75 USD).
As for your first question: most clients who book our tour and need transfers either to the Dakhla border or the Senegal border have this included free of charge.
Baba 😊
Joana Neto,
11 November, 2025Hello!
I’m considering to travel to Mauritania next year 2026.
I will be in Morrocco in february, so i’d like to know if you guys will have any tours for the dates 16-22/february?
I’d also really like to ride the iron ore train, I don’t know if that is still possible, due to the new security enforcement.
I will be travelling with another person.
Thank you!,
Joana
Baba Ahmed,
01 January, 2026Hi Joana! 😊 Sorry for the delayed reply. We do have a guaranteed departure tour from February 17–24, so those dates work perfectly. No need to worry about riding the iron ore train (that’s already taken care of 🙂
We’ll also be posting all of our 2026 tour dates very shortly, so you’ll be able to choose what works best for you. Let us know if you have any other questions, we’d love to have you both join us!