{"id":26557,"date":"2021-04-08T17:41:24","date_gmt":"2021-04-08T15:41:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/?p=26557"},"modified":"2026-01-19T12:02:04","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T10:02:04","slug":"mauritania-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mauritania-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"Backpacking in Mauritania, a 2-week itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3657-2-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3657-2-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3657-2-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Mauritania 2 weeks itinerary\" class=\"wp-image-26635\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-white-color has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Wanna travel to Mauritania with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-normal-font-size\">Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Mauritania:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color has-link-color has-normal-font-size wp-elements-3a08225e05c6776215ab7347ef280c82\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>November 19th to 26th, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/mauritania-easter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">learn more<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Mauritania is characterized for being exceptionally raw and authentic, a desert country filled with nomads and where tradition still prevails over modernity, as I have <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/mauritania\/\"><strong>said in previous articles<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nestled just between Maghreb and sub-Saharan Africa, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/mauritania\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mauritania <\/a><\/strong>is one of the off-the-beaten-track countries closest to Western Europe, a barely explored destination easily reached by air, or even by car from Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, thanks to an outstanding improvement in security, <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mauritania-safe-travel\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Mauritania is nowadays, an accessible, safe country<\/strong><\/a>, and the definitive destination for those wanting to follow ancient trans-Saharan trade routes and seek the most pristine desert landscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, I will take you through <strong>my personal 15-day Mauritania travel itinerary<\/strong>, along with all respective tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Remember that, for all the practical information, including visas, budget, etc., you must check my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-mauritania\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Mauritania travel guide<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/12-683x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/12-683x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/12-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Mauritania itinerary\" class=\"wp-image-26643\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:486px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this Mauritania travel itinerary you will find:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group table-of-contents is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><p class=\"table-of-contents__title\" style=\"font-size:20px\">Table of Contents<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#1\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Own vehicle vs public transportation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#2\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">How many days are needed<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#3\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Useful books<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#4\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Mauritania itinerary<\/span><\/a>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#41\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 1, 2 &#8211; Nouakchott<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#42\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 3, 4 &#8211; Tidjikja<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#43\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 5, 6 &#8211; Terjit<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#44\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 7, 8 &#8211; Chinguetti<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#45\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 9, 10 &#8211; Ouadane<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#46\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 11 &#8211; Zou\u00e9rat<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#47\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 12 &#8211; The Iron Ore Train<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#48\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 13 &#8211; Arrival in Nouadhibou<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#49\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 14 &#8211; Way to Nouakchott<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#5\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">More resources<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fe9900\">our recommended travel insurance for Mauritania<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:20px\">With its Backpacker plan, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=mauritania_itinerary_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Mauritania.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-text-align-center has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=mauritania_itinerary_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\"><strong>Interested in exploring the other side of the continent?<\/strong><br>Here you can check more <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/category\/horn-of-africa\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>guides and itineraries to the Horn of Africa<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\">Planning your Mauritania travel itinerary: own vehicle <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">vs<\/span> public transportation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Renting a car can prove useful, but budget backpackers should know that backpacking in Mauritania using public transportation can also be feasible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s what I did, so all the places listed in this itinerary can be done without a private vehicle. The only downside, however, is that you need time and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, moving around with your own vehicle makes things easier and smoother, obviously, but be aware that many destinations can only be reached by a 4&#215;4, so renting a normal, small car won\u2019t be that much of a game-changer and, even if you rent a 4&#215;4, driving over the sand is a required skill, so keep that in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In summary:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Traveling by local transportation &#8211;<\/strong> Completely doable if you have plenty of time like me, but you may be limited, depending on how far you want to travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Traveling by private car &#8211; <\/strong>Definitely, the best way to explore Mauritania but a 4&#215;4 and good driving experience are must-have requirements, provided that you want to <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-world-countries\/\"><strong>visit the country<\/strong><\/a> properly. If you have never driven a 4&#215;4 but still want to visit all the places listed in this Mauritania itinerary and get deep into the desert, consider hiring a local guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/How-to-travel-around-Mauritania-1024x576.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/How-to-travel-around-Mauritania-1024x576.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/How-to-travel-around-Mauritania-1024x576.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-26389\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A local pick-up, or shared taxi, loaded with a camel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\">How many days are needed for Mauritania?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mauritania is a vast country but, since it\u2019s mostly uninhabited desert, plus you can\u2019t really go to the far north &#8211; for safety reasons &#8211; you can visit a fair amount of the country in 1 or 2 weeks&#8217; time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How many days are needed, however, will mainly depend on your chosen means of transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mauritania in 15 days<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2-week Maurtiania itinerary listed in this post is meant for those who travel by public transportation, since you will often need one full day to move from one place to the other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It may seem kind of inconvenient, but that\u2019s part of the experience, which can definitely be fun, especially when you take a local pick-up loaded with camels and desert people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If traveling by private car, you can do the 15-day Mauritania itinerary <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">in only 10 days<\/span>:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Day 1, 2 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visiting-nouakchott-worst-capital-world\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Nouakchott<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 3 &#8211; Travel to Tidjikja<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 4 &#8211; Visit Tidjikja and go to Terjit at the end of the day (EOD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 5 &#8211; Visit Terjit and travel to Chinguetti (EOD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 6 &#8211; Visit Chinguetti in the morning and get to Ouadane at the EOD<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 7 &#8211; Visit Ouadane and travel to Zou\u00e9rat at the EOD<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 8 &#8211; Taking the Iron Ore Train &#8211; <strong><em>If you are self-driving and also want to <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iron-ore-train-mauritania\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\">ride the Iron Ore Train<\/a>, you will have to figure out by yourself what to do with your car.<\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 9 &#8211; Nouadhibou<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 10 &#8211; Back to Nouakchott<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mauritania in 1 week<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most travelers will only have 1 week. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Assuming you are traveling by public transportation and want to <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iron-ore-train-mauritania\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>ride the Iron Ore Train<\/strong><\/a>, this is my suggested 7-day itinerary for Mauritania:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Day 1 &#8211; Nouakchott<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 2 &#8211; Travel to Chinguetti<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 3 &#8211; Chinguetti<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 4 &#8211; Journey to Zou\u00e9rat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 5 &#8211; Iron Ore Train<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 6 &#8211; Nouadhibou<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day 7 &#8211; Back to Nouakchott<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\">Useful books for backpacking in Mauritania<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">West Africa travel guide by Lonely Planet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">A useful book for West Africa overlanders &#8211; with a chapter fully dedicated to Mauritania &#8211; but bear in mind that it contains travel guides to 18 different countries, so consider it a small introduction to the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1786570424\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1786570424&amp;linkId=b1cd9807df19115742fdc06f8095f966\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/91YNTuntdXL1-666x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/91YNTuntdXL1-666x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/91YNTuntdXL1-666x1024.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-26360\" style=\"width:190px;height:291px\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The desert and the drum (Mbarfek Ould Beyrouk)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">This is the first Mauritanian novel to ever be translated into English and I think it\u2019s the only one so far, that\u2019s why I bought it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The story is about a Bedouin girl who falls in love with a stranger city guy and all the consequences after her tribe found out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">To be very honest, the book is a bit cheesy but what I liked that it gives you many insights into how tribal people live in Mauritania.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1910213799\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1910213799&amp;linkId=63284dc9f91492c17bd26a3b707df7ae\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/71IT8uh8P5L-635x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/71IT8uh8P5L-635x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/71IT8uh8P5L-635x1024.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-26362\" style=\"width:196px;height:316px\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\">Places to visit in Mauritania in a 15-day itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Going to Mali? Check <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mali-itinerary\/\"><strong>my 1-week travel itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are all the things I did Mauritania (always using public transportation).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-vivid-red-color has-text-color\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Places to visit in Mauritania in 2 weeks (map)<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=1RHe9vvSv22Ppo8RgXGzWUzOoTeO-OX1d&#038;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"41\">Day 1, 2 &#8211; Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Heads-up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nouakchott could easily be one of my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visiting-nouakchott-worst-capital-world\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>least favorite capitals in the world<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I didn\u2019t like it, even though I spent 10 days here, or better said &#8221;I had to&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, I spent 5 days trying to recover my drone, which had been confiscated at the airport customs, and then, before flying out, 5 more extra days waiting <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-mali\/#5\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>for my Mali visa<\/strong><\/a> and PCR test results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nouakchott doesn\u2019t have much to offer. It\u2019s a relatively new capital full of trash, sand, with no bars, no good restaurants and basically, not much going on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nonetheless, this unattractiveness, and probably the sand too, is what makes <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visiting-nouakchott-worst-capital-world\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Nouakchott<\/strong><\/a> weirdly appealing. I mean, have you ever seen a pile of sand, like actual desert sand, in the middle of a capital city? Because in Nouakchott you do, and that\u2019s fairly unusual to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/20210130_114003-1024x576.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/20210130_114003-1024x576.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/20210130_114003-1024x576.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-26631\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Looking for a daraa in Nouakchott<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Moreover, there are two sites that will make your cultural visit worthwhile:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Port du P\u00eache (fishing harbour) &#8211;<\/strong> One of the busiest and liveliest fishing harbors in West Africa, and an important pillar of Mauritania\u2019s economy. This <strong><a aria-label=\"photo essay (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.offbeattravelling.com\/fish-market-nouakchott-mauritania\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"rank-math-link\">photo essay<\/a><\/strong> from <strong>Off Beat Traveling<\/strong> is great.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Camel Market &#8211;<\/strong> Home to the largest concentration of camels I have ever seen.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2068-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2068-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2068-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"port du Peche Nouakchott\" class=\"wp-image-26627\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mauritanian boats at Port du P\u00eache, one of the best places to visit in Mauritania<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Nouakchott<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Budget Hostel &#8211; <\/strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mr\/le-village-amp-auberge-triskell.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Le Village &amp; Auberge Triskell<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/span> &#8211; Top choice. Friendly traveling vibe. I stayed here during my entire stay. The owner, Sebastien, is a French national who has been living in Mauritania for several years, and he will be happy to help you during your entire stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mr\/le-village-amp-auberge-triskell.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">But there are many other options and choices:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en-gb.html?city=-1402901&amp;aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO FIND THE BEST HOTELS IN NOUAKCHOTT<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2492-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2492-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2492-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"camel market Nouakchott\" class=\"wp-image-26625\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The camel market of Nouakchott makes for a great half day trip<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"42\">Day 3, 4 &#8211; Trip to Tidjikja, a real Sahara town<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tidjikja is the most off the beaten track place listed in this Mauritania travel itinerary, a Sahara town that most travelers tend to skip, as it involves a big detour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, I loved Tidjikja. In fact, it was one of the highlights of my trip. It\u2019s just a small town located in the middle of the Sahara, but it\u2019s the largest one in the area, so it has become a trading center attracting all sorts of desert people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2793-684x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2793-684x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2793-684x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Tidjikja\" class=\"wp-image-26621\" style=\"object-fit:cover\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tidjikja<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s not much to do other there than checking out the local market, but intrepid travelers and photographers alike will definitely enjoy it, as the locals there are particularly welcoming and no place in the country can feel as authentic and traditional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It feels like traveling back in time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Tidjikja<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I stayed at <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/espacevoyages-mr.com\/espace-auberge\/\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"Auberge Caravane du Desert (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Auberge Caravane du Desert<\/a><\/strong>, which had very basic rooms with a private bathroom. I paid 1,000MRU for a double room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Tidjikja from Nouakchott<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Local buses leave early in the morning, around 7:30am, from Carrefour Madrid. I recommend you to be there before 7am because it\u2019s a big area and the different stations are all over the place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a long 12-hour journey and costs 700MRU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fcc3b7;font-size:18px\"><strong>Visiting Tichit<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tichit\" class=\"rank-math-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Tichit<\/strong><\/a> is another remote Sahara village, and ancient trading center and, today, a UNESCO World Heritage site barely visited by anyone. Tichit can be reached from Tidjikja along a road covered with sand. There are local taxis going there but they leave every couple of days, only when they have enough passengers.<br>Upon my arrival in Tidjikja, the first thing I did was try to arrange the local pick-up to take me there. The car wasn&#8217;t full yet, so I waited for one more day but nothing, they still didn&#8217;t have enough passengers: <em>Maybe tomorrow, or maybe not<\/em> \u2013 they said.<br>In the hypothetical case that I had managed to get to Tichit, there would also be the possibility that I would have to wait there for an extra 3-4 days to come back to Tidjikja, which would imply spending more than a week in a very remote area with not much to do, where nobody spoke English, so I passed, because going there in a private taxi was too expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2715-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2715-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_2715-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"top 10 places to visit in Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26623\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Another great thing to do in Mauritania is visiting Tidjikja market area<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"43\">Day 5, 6 &#8211; Travel to the oasis village of Terjit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Terjit is a desert spring, more popularly known as an oasis, located in the Adrar region, 45km south of Atar, and one of the most visited places among the few tourists who <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-mauritania\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>visit Mauritania<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For centuries, many of the endless caravans traveling <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.asiangeo.com\/travel-and-adventure\/salt-sand-and-slavery-on-the-trail-of-mauritanias-ancient-caravan-routes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>along the trans-Saharan route<\/strong><\/a> used Terjit as a place for shelter, a spot to break their journey and enjoy the cool breeze under the shade of the spreading palm trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, Terjit has become a touristic place for both foreigners and wealthy locals, home to some pretty cool landscapes mainly consisting of a vast sea of palm trees that spreads over a narrow valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best view one can get is from <strong>Chez Jamel<\/strong>, the tented camp I recommend below, located on the top of a hill from where you can see the entire valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3213-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3213-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3213-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Terjit Oasis\" class=\"wp-image-26617\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The oasis of Terjit is one of the best places to visit in Mauritania<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In Terjit, I recommend walking to the actual springs and coming back over the ridge of the valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have the time, you can also walk to the <strong>oasis of Mhaireth<\/strong>, located on the other side of the valley and whose sea of palm trees is even bigger than Terjit&#8217;s. Going there and back on foot takes the whole day but you can also get there by car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Terjit from Tidjikja (Highlight)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an epic 8 to 10-hour journey across sand dunes and Bedouin camps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is an actual tarmac road connecting Tidjikja and Terjit but, over the years, the sand has completely swallowed it and today, only experienced 4&#215;4 drivers should attempt this drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I did the journey on the front seat of a local pick-up loaded with goats and friendly locals, making occasional stops in Bedouin camps where we were offered <em>zrig<\/em> (fermented yogurt) or taking a rest on the sand dunes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was my best journey by road and to do so, you must arrange it in advance, preferably on the day before. For that, ask for the local taxi to Atar, upon your arrival in Tidjikja. It should cost around 700MRU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Terjit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>You must stay at <strong><a aria-label=\"Chez Jamel (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/vaolo.com\/en\/lodges\/chez-jemal-terjit-hostel\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Chez Jamel<\/a><\/strong>, the tented camp with the viewpoint. It\u2019s pretty basic but it\u2019s well taken care of. 300MRU for a tent which you can share.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3589-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3589-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3589-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Things to do in Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26615\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Posing with my daraa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"44\">Day 7, 8 &#8211; Travel to the medieval trading center of Chinguetti<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Welcome to the most touristic place to visit in Mauritania.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, I seriously believe that, if it wasn\u2019t for all the unfortunate events that, back in 2007, put an end to the already small Mauritanian tourism industry, Chinguetti would have become a busy tourist destination by now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It definitely was on its way because, when wandering around the sandy old city alleys, being chased by ladies selling costume jewelry is guaranteed, something that only happens in those places where tourists are &#8211; or were in this case &#8211; more than a common encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In any case, <strong><a aria-label=\"Chinguetti is great (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.bbc.com\/travel\/story\/20200709-chinguetti-mauritanias-ancient-saharan-city\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Chinguetti is an unmissable destination<\/a><\/strong> and during my visit, I had the whole town to myself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3929-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3929-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3929-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Chinguetti Friday Mosque\" class=\"wp-image-26611\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The ancient minaret of Chinguetti is one of the best places to visit in Mauritania<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Chinguetti is a medieval trading center dating from the 13th century and one of the main centers for the trans-Saharan trading route, the equivalent of Samarkand (<a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-travel-guide\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Uzbekistan<\/strong><\/a>) on the Silk Road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, it used to be a meeting point for Maghrebi pilgrims who were on their way to Mecca (<a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-to-saudi-arabia\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Saudi Arabia<\/strong><\/a>), so it became one of the holiest cities in West Africa, hence a renowned center for Islamic and scientific scholarship, the reason why Chinguetti is today home to several libraries containing ancient books and manuscripts about astronomy, mathematics, medicine and also Islam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-libya\/\"><strong>Traveling to Libya<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3983-684x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3983-684x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3983-684x1024.jpg\" alt=\"things to do in Chinguetti\" class=\"wp-image-26609\" style=\"object-fit:cover\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Visiting a library is one of the best things to do in Mauritania<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, Chinguetti is surrounded by some of the most perfect sand dunes in the African Sahara, but this turns out to be a problem for the locals, since the sand is encroaching on the town, burying houses and forcing many to move elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They say it\u2019s only a matter of years, or a few decades, before Old Chinguetti will be completely covered by sand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Things to do in Chinguetti<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Old Town and Friday mosque &#8211;<\/strong> Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, the old city of Chinguetti is dominated by a beautifully restored 13th century minaret that belongs to the most ancient mosque in Mauritania. Mauritanians claim this minaret is the second oldest in continuous use anywhere in the Muslim world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Libraries &#8211; <\/strong>There are a total of 5 libraries that can be visited for a small fee, where you can check several 700-year old books. In the one I visited, the man only spoke French and I barely understood anything of what he said, but just checking out those old manuscripts was cool enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3985-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3985-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_3985-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Chinguetti library\" class=\"wp-image-26607\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An ancient book<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Desert &#8211; <\/strong>I strongly recommend heading to the sand dunes for the last few hours before sunset. They reach beyond the horizon but, unfortunately, if you want to get a clear view, you will have to walk for 1km or so, since anywhere before that is full of trash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Chinguetti is also a popular place for desert safaris and tours, one popular trip being the trek from Chinguetti to Ouadane (2 or 3 days) over the sand dunes with a camel caravan. Any auberge owner can arrange this trip for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Chinguetti from Terjit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A local pick-up leaves every morning from Terjit to Atar. I missed it, so I hitchhiked, but I had to wait for like 2 hours.<br>From Atar, a few local pick-ups run daily to Chinguetti for 200MRU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Chinguetti<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I stayed at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Hotel_Review-g1493704-d6571976-Reviews-Auberge_Zarga-Chinguetti_Adrar_Region.html\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"Auberge Zarga (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Auberge Zarga<\/a><\/strong>. It\u2019s extremely basic and very dirty but the owner seems to have the largest expertise when it comes to organizing trips for travelers. I paid 150MRU for a dorm bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_4052-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_4052-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_4052-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"places to visit in Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26605\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Mauritanian Sahara can easily rival the dunes <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/liwa-oasis-moreeb-dune-tal-mireb\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>from the Empty Quarter<\/strong><\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"45\">Day 9, 10 &#8211; Travel to Ouadane<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Like Chinguetti, the Old City of Ouadane is a UNESCO World Heritage site which apparently, prospered from the trans-Saharan gold trade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overlooking the Sahara plains, the ruins of the Old City are impressive to see, more so than Chinguetti\u2019s in my opinion, even though only a small part has been restored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a nice village to spend a day in, but no more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By the way, Ouadane is the base for visiting the Eye of the Sahara. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Watch the below video to learn more about it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PcB7Dr44HOk\" title=\"YouTube video player\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Ouadane<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>You must stay in <strong><a aria-label=\"Auberge Vasque (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Hotel_Review-g5973140-d10056260-Reviews-Auberge_Vasque_Chez_Zaida-Ouadane_Adrar_Region.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Auberge Vasque<\/a><\/strong>, the best place I stayed in Mauritania. It was clean and the only auberge with hot water. Besides, the owner is a badass local woman (Zaida) who drives a massive 4&#215;4 and smokes all the time, something very unusual to see in such a conservative area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Ouadane from Chinguetti<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>By public transportation, it\u2019s a bit tricky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, you need to take a private taxi to the Chinguetti-Ouadane intersection, located in the middle of nowhere, 20-30km from the closest civilization. I paid 500RMU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once at the intersection, you will have to wait for a car to pass by. I had to wait for like 3 hours until the first car arrived. Try to get there early in the morning, otherwise, you may miss the last car. Remember that there is no internet service in that area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_43661-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_43661-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DSC_43661-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"what to visit in Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26603\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Overlooking the ruined city of Ouadane<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"46\">Day 11 &#8211; The mining town of Zou\u00e9rat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Zou\u00e9rat is a remote northern town that has developed thanks to the mining industry, specifically extracting iron ore, an activity that has become the most important factor for Mauritania\u2019s GDP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a surprisingly modernized town, compared to neighboring towns and villages, almost like <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visiting-nouakchott-worst-capital-world\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Nouakchott<\/strong><\/a> and Nouadhibou, for example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be very honest, Zou\u00e9rat was the only place where I did miss having a car, since I really wanted to explore a bit around the mining area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what can one do there besides checking out the mines?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zou\u00e9rat is the <strong>departure point for the Iron Ore Train<\/strong>. More on that below \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/VideoCapture_20210408-165526-1024x576.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/VideoCapture_20210408-165526-1024x576.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/VideoCapture_20210408-165526-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Zou\u00e9rat\" class=\"wp-image-26599\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Zou\u00e9rat market, where you can stock up on supplies before catching the train<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Zou\u00e9rat<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I stayed at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Hotel+Tiris+Zemmour\/@22.7345607,-12.4716474,15z\/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xd01ebec538e42e2c?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwifq6Hs3-7vAhUVD2MBHcNtC2UQ_BIwCnoECBQQBQ\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Tiris Hotel<\/a><\/strong>. Basic and expensive but I arrived late at night and that was the first place I found. 1,500MRU for a double room<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Zou\u00e9rat from Ouadane<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A very long ride. First, you must arrange a local pick-up that will take you to Atar, which typically leaves at 7am from Ouadane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Atar, I had to wait for about 5 hours for a bus to depart to Zou\u00e9rat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/VideoCapture_20210325-181631-1024x550.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/VideoCapture_20210325-181631-1024x550.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/VideoCapture_20210325-181631-1024x550.jpg\" alt=\"Soci\u00e9t\u00e9 Nationale Industrielle et Mini\u00e8re, Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26515\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">When the train finally arrived at the station in Zou\u00e9rat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"47\">Day 12 &#8211; The Iron Ore Train<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are very, very few experiences which can be as epic as riding the Iron Train in Mauritania.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every day of the year &#8211; every single day &#8211; a train 2.5 kilometers in length leaves the mining town of Zou\u00e9rat, traveling more than 700km across the empty Sahara to the Atlantic city of Nouadibou, transporting hundreds of tonnes of iron ore which will be subsequently shipped to different parts of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a traveler, you can get on top of one of the 200 wagons, sit on the iron ore and travel along the 18-hour journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I won\u2019t talk much about it because I already wrote a full travel guide but here are a few tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The train leaves from Fderik, 20km before Zou\u00e9rat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It can depart at any time between 11am and 6pm<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The journey to Nouadhibou takes 18 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring enough water, goggles to protect your eyes and a turban to cover your face.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The train also departs from Choum, but I recommend getting on in Zou\u00e9rat<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iron-ore-train-mauritania\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Everything you need to know about riding the Iron Ore Train in Mauritania<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/20210211_171028-2-697x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/20210211_171028-2-697x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/20210211_171028-2-697x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Iron train Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26510\" style=\"object-fit:cover\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An epic journey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"48\">Day 13 &#8211; Arrival in Nouadhibou<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">For me, the best thing about Nouadhibou was having a proper, hot shower after <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iron-ore-train-mauritania\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>riding the Iron Ore Train<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Otherwise, I think that Nouadhibou really sucks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">It has a similar vibe to <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visiting-nouakchott-worst-capital-world\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>Nouakchott<\/strong><\/a> but without its piles of sand, camels and the Port du P\u00eache so no matter how hard I try, I can find nothing to recommend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">There used to be some impressive shipwrecks on its shores but not anymore. Apparently, the Chinese have been slowly removing them, as they did in the Aral Sea <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kazakhstan-itinerary\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>in Kazakhstan<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">But once again, I did enjoy visiting Nouadhibou because it was my last destination after some pretty hard backpacking across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Nouadhibou<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">There are plenty of comfortable hotels where you can have a good rest and I stayed at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mr\/apparts-esma.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hotel Esma<\/a><\/strong>, where I paid 50\u20ac for a pretty neat room with all commodities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mr\/apparts-esma.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Something I recommend is booking your hotel in Nouadibou well in advance. Upon my arrival, I went to 3 different hotels before I found Hotel Esma and all were already fully booked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Well, that\u2019s what I hope, because I was completely covered in black dust from the train journey, and sometimes I felt I was just being discriminated against \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en-gb.html?city=-1402894&amp;aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong><strong>CLICK HERE TO FIND THE BEST HOTELS IN NOUADHIBOU<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/20210212_073708-1024x576.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/20210212_073708-1024x576.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/20210212_073708-1024x576.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-26629\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">After the train ride, all you need is a shower<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"49\">Day 14 &#8211; Way to Nouakchott<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">On the next morning, you can easily take a bus to Nouakchott.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Buses depart frequently, all day long, from the entrance of Nouadhibou, exactly here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en-gb.html?city=-1402901&amp;aid=1232728&amp;label=mauritania_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong><strong><strong>CLICK HERE TO FIND THE BEST HOTEL DEALS IN NOUAKCHOTT<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\">More information for backpacking in Mauritania<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2b8f2b\">\ud83d\udce2 In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-resources\/\"><strong>Travel Resources Page<\/strong><\/a> you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">All guides and articles for traveling in Mauritania destination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visiting-nouakchott-worst-capital-world\/\">Travel Guide to Nouakchott<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iron-ore-train-mauritania\/\">Iron Ore Train Guide in Mauritania<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mauritania-safe-travel\/\">Is Mauritania Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-mauritania\/\">Travel Guide to Mauritania<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel Itineraries to other countries in Africa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/sudan-travel-guide-backpacking\/\">Travel Guide to Sudan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-egypt-itinerary\/\">Egypt Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-libya\/\">Libya Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/somaliland-itinerary\/\">Somaliland Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mali-itinerary\/\">Mali Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tunisia-travel-tips-itinerary\/\">Tunisia Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/eritrea-itinerary\/\">Eritrea Itinerary<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/32-683x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/32-683x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/32-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Places to visit in Mauritania\" class=\"wp-image-26639\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:494px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wanna travel to Mauritania with Against the Compass? Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Mauritania: November 19th to 26th, 2026 Mauritania is characterized for being exceptionally raw and authentic, a desert country filled with nomads and where tradition still prevails over modernity, as I have said in previous articles. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":26635,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[164,296],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-26557","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-guides","category-mauritania"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26557","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=26557"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26557\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":56632,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26557\/revisions\/56632"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/26635"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=26557"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=26557"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=26557"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}