Explore the Banc d'Arguin, Adrar, Choum, Nouadhibou via Railway: Adventures in the Heart of Mauritania
4x4 tour, duration 14 days
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Mauritania, exploring iconic destinations such as Banc d’Arguin National Park, the Adrar massif, the village of Choum, and the coastal city of Nouadhibou. This journey offers a unique experience, blending breathtaking landscapes and fascinating culture.
Discovering Banc d’Arguin National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banc d’Arguin National Park is a natural treasure trove of exceptional biodiversity. This marine reserve is home to thousands of migratory birds and marine mammals. Its pristine sandy beaches and turquoise waters create a paradise for nature lovers.
Exploring the Dunes of Adrar
After the coastal wonders, head to Adrar, renowned for its vast golden dunes and dramatic canyons. Along the way, discover hidden oases and traditional villages that showcase Mauritania’s nomadic heritage. Immerse yourself in the local way of life and admire the breathtaking scenery.
Journey to Choum
Next, visit the historic village of Choum, once a key stop for trade caravans. Explore its remnants of the past and experience the simplicity of local life. Don’t miss the chance to savor traditional dishes and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Arrival in Nouadhibou
Finally, conclude your trip in Nouadhibou, Mauritania’s second-largest city. This lively coastal hub is famous for its port, beaches, and proximity to Cap Blanc peninsula, a prime spot for birdwatching. Dive into its colonial history and vibrant atmosphere.
This itinerary—spanning Banc d’Arguin, Adrar, Choum, and Nouadhibou via the railway—promises unforgettable memories and a deep immersion into Mauritania’s wild beauty. A true blend of desert and ocean awaits!
The Itinerary: 
Arrival in Nouakchott
Begin Your Adventure in Mauritania
Upon your arrival in Nouakchott, Mauritania’s vibrant capital, our team will warmly welcome you at the airport. A private transfer will take you directly to your hotel, where you can settle in comfortably and unwind after your journey.
Nouakchott—a bustling port city nestled between the Sahara Desert and the Atlantic Ocean—offers your first glimpse into Mauritania’s rich culture and unique atmosphere. This first night at the hotel allows you to rest and recharge before the adventures ahead.
A seamless and welcoming experience to start your journey in tranquility, preparing you to explore the country’s breathtaking natural wonders and cultural treasures.
Nouakchott – Akjoujt – Amatlich – Azoiga Oasis
Departure to Akjoujt, a town renowned for its mining activity, then continue along the track to the towering dunes of the Erg Amatlich and the oasis of Graritte Livrasse, Azoiga. A 4×4 journey through the desert landscapes of Mauritania, amidst endless sand and vast horizons. Overnight under the stars or in a nomadic tent, for a true desert immersion.
Foum Tizigui Pass – El Meddah Oasis
Head towards the Foum Tizigui Pass, a legendary stop on the Paris-Dakar Rally, where the vast Amatlich dune belt stretches nearly 400 km. Explore El Meddah Oasis, Mauritania’s largest palm grove—a lush green gem in the heart of the desert. Meet Mauritanian nomads who call this thriving oasis home. Spend the night under the stars or in a traditional tent for a truly immersive experience.
Echaîla Palm Grove – Erch Plain
Morning departure to El Gleïtat Oasis, followed by a visit to Echaîla Palm Grove, a lush haven nestled among the rocks. Explore a rock shelter adorned with ancient cave paintings, silent witnesses of a distant past. Discover the Erch Plain, famous for the seasonal farming practices of the nomads. Experience their traditional way of life, including the harvesting of beans and white watermelon. Overnight in a nomadic tent, lulled by the whispers of the desert.
Tifoujar – Terjit – N’Tourvine Pass – Mheirth
From the dizzying heights of Tifoujar Pass, behold a breathtaking vista of Oued El-Abiod’s winding veins, where sunlight gilds the ephemeral waters. Descend to Terjit Oasis, a hidden Eden: its natural hot springs, framed by date palms, invite you to bathe in crystal-clear, mineral-rich pools.
After this rejuvenating pause, cross the wind-carved N’Tourvine Pass to reach Mheirth, a place steeped in desert stillness. As night falls, set up camp under a sky ablaze with stars, surrounded by ancient dunes and rock formations—a night lulled by the whispers of the Sahara.
Mheirth – Ouadane - Guelb Er Richat
Begin your day with a serene stroll through Mheirth’s oasis, where palm trees sway like desert dancers. Then, journey to Ouadane, a medieval UNESCO-listed gem, where the labyrinthine alleys and local museum whisper tales of ancient caravan routes.
In the afternoon, explore the otherworldly Guelb Er Richat, a colossal geological wonder known as the “Eye of Africa.” Its origins—volcanic or meteoritic?—remain shrouded in mystery, captivating explorers and scientists alike.
As dusk falls, retreat to a traditional guesthouse, where Mauritanian hospitality and the desert’s timeless embrace await.
Chinguetti, Desert Sanctuary
Step into the spiritual heart of Mauritania with a journey to Chinguetti, a UNESCO-listed holy city where sand and history intertwine.
Wander through alleyways lined with dry-stone houses, silent witnesses to the golden age of trans-Saharan trade.
Admire the iconic mosque, one of West Africa’s oldest, its minaret standing sentinel under the vast desert sky.
Explore private libraries safeguarding centuries-old manuscripts (astronomy, Islamic law, poetry)—some dating back over 800 years.
As night falls, retreat to a traditional guesthouse, its earthy walls echoing with tales of nomadic scholars and ancient caravans.
Amogjar Canyon – Atar – Azougui
1. Amogjar Canyon: A Journey Through Time
Start your day exploring Amogjar Canyon, an open-air museum where wind-carved cliffs reveal ancient rock paintings left by the Sahara’s earliest inhabitants. Don’t miss the movie set remnants of “Fort Saganne”, a cinematic relic blending with the desert’s raw beauty.
2. Atar: The Beating Heart of Adrar
Next, dive into the hustle of Atar, the regional capital. Its lively market bursts with spices, nomadic textiles, and dried fruits—perfect for tasting local flavors like honeyed dates or freshly brewed mint tea.
3. Azougui: Echoes of the Almoravid Empire
End your journey at Azougui, once the Almoravid dynasty’s capital. These silent ruins whisper tales of an empire that shaped North Africa and Andalusia, now standing solemnly under the desert sun.
Azougui – Choum – Ben Emira Village
1. Choum: The Iron Ore Train’s Dance
From Azougui, journey to Choum, where the world’s longest iron ore train cuts through the desert like a metallic serpent. Watch as endless wagons laden with rust-red minerals crawl across the sands—a stark contrast of industry and wilderness.
2. Desert Night: Bivouac Under a Star Blanket
Set up camp under the Sahara’s infinite sky. Sip sweet mint tea in a nomadic tent as constellations emerge with dazzling clarity, far from city lights.
3. Ben Emira: Where Legends Meet Stone
At dawn, discover Ben Emira Village, nestled beneath Ben Amira—Africa’s tallest monolith (633m). This sandstone giant, carved by wind and folklore, now doubles as an open-air sculpture park, with ephemeral art etched by international creators.
4. Campfire Tales & Starlight
As night falls again, gather around a fire at the monolith’s base, where nomadic stories blend with the whispers of the desert.
Boulanouar and Nouadhibou: Between Tradition and Urban Growth
Nouadhibou: A Legendary Port of Striking Contrasts
Next, head to Nouadhibou, the country’s second largest city and the economic heart of the Sahel region. Discover:
Its bustling port, where modern fishing boats and traditional boats mingle.
Unique view of the Atlantic Ocean
After this exciting day, you can relax in a comfortable hotel and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere.
Banc d’Arguin: Where Desert Whispers to the Ocean
1. A UNESCO-Listed Wonder
Explore the Banc d’Arguin National Park, a UNESCO gem where golden dunes melt into Atlantic blues. This ecological haven hosts:
Millions of migratory birds (pink flamingos, pelicans, royal terns) swirling above sandbar islands.
Surreal seascapes where tidal flats mirror the sky.
2. The Imraguen: Sea Nomads
Meet the Imraguen fishermen, the last maritime nomads, who hunt sharks and mullets from wooden lanches using techniques unchanged for centuries. Their chants echo over the waves as they pull nets by hand.
3. Night at the Auberge du Parc: Between Ocean and Memory Dinner of fresh fish caught the same day.
Bird Colonies & Cape Tafarit – Wings Over the Atlantic
1. Birdwatching by Boat: A Feathered Spectacle
At dawn, glide through the park’s channels aboard a traditional pirogue, witnessing:
Pink flamingos wading in mirrored shallows.
Pelicans dive-bombing in synchronized hunts.
Royal terns pirouetting above schools of fish.
Bonus sighting: Curious Mediterranean monk seals surfacing near your boat.
2. Cape Tafarit: Where Anglers and Horizons Meet
By afternoon, head to Cape Tafarit, a wind-sculpted headland where:
Sport fishers battle giant trevallies and groupers.
The cliff-top viewpoint frames the Atlantic’s endless blue against Saharan dunes.
3. Night at the Auberge du Parc: Between Ocean and Memory Dinner of fresh fish caught the same day.
Nouakchott
Enjoy a stroll along the lively beaches, where the local atmosphere comes alive with the return of fishermen to the port. We will also visit the museum and the market, true reflections of the city’s cultural vibrancy.
To end the day, a dinner in town will allow you to savor local specialties before your transfer to the airport for your departure.
- Included in the Price:
✔ Airport welcome & transfers
✔ All accommodation (hotels + desert bivouacs)
✔ Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✔ Camping equipment (traditional nomadic tents)
✔ 4×4 transportation (with experienced driver)
✔ All vehicle fuel costs
✔ National park fees (all access permits included)
✔ Expert guide (local Saharan specialist)
✔ Dedicated cook (authentic Mauritanian cuisine)
✔ All entrance fees (museums, libraries, historic sites)
* Not included in the price: 
✗ Flights & related fees (airfare, baggage, etc.)
✗ Visa fees
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Beverages & personal expenses
✗ Gratuities (guides/drivers appreciated but optional)
✗ Any unspecified costs
