Mauritania – Where the Sahara Meets the Atlantic

Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage

Mauritania’s desert interior is home to four UNESCO World Heritage trading towns – Chinguetti, Ouadane, Tichitt, and Oualata. These ancient cities once thrived as hubs of Islamic scholarship and trans-Saharan trade. Chinguetti, the “City of Libraries,” holds rare medieval manuscripts and distinctive desert architecture, offering an atmospheric step back in time.

Epic Desert Adventures

Few experiences rival riding the legendary Iron Ore Train, one of the world’s longest trains, across the Sahara. Adventurous travellers often perch atop open ore carriages under a sky full of stars. The Richat Structure, or “Eye of the Sahara,” is a massive geological formation visible from space, while Ben Amera, Africa’s largest monolith, dominates the horizon on 4×4 expeditions.

Coastal Wildlife & Nature Escapes

The Banc d’Arguin National Park is a UNESCO-protected coastal reserve and one of the world’s most important bird sanctuaries, home to flamingos, pelicans, and countless migratory species. The Cap Blanc Reserve offers rare encounters with the endangered Mediterranean monk seal, and Diawling National Park showcases mangroves, acacia forests, and a rich variety of wildlife near the Senegal River.

Unique Cultural Encounters & Nomadic Life

Mauritania offers unfiltered, authentic experiences – sharing tea with nomadic families, exploring desert villages, and learning about traditional crafts. These encounters not only provide cultural insight but also support local communities directly.