Discover the dunes and oases of Tagant: a journey to the heart of the Mauritanian desert.
4x4 Tour, Duration 8 Days
Dunes and Oasis of Tagant – An Unforgettable Adventure in Mauritania
Discover the dunes and oasis of Tagant on this fascinating journey that will immerse you in the natural and cultural beauty of Mauritania. Breathtaking landscapes await, with golden sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see and verdant oases offering a peaceful refuge in the heart of the desert.
This tour will take you through traditional villages where you will meet the warm and welcoming inhabitants, who will share their nomadic way of life with you. The oases of Tagant are not only natural wonders but also places rich in history and culture.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to admire the unique wildlife and flora of the region, as well as the incredible geological formations that characterize this desert landscape. This journey is a perfect opportunity for those seeking to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature.
Don’t miss this unique experience in the dunes and oases of Tagant, a true gem of the Mauritanian desert.
Itinerary : 
Arrival in Nouakchott,
Arrival in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania. You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel for a night of rest, marking the beginning of your adventure in this fascinating country.
Nouakchott – Boutilimitte – R’kiz
Departure towards the town of Boutilimitte, dominated by its fort, a relic from the colonial era. This is the city of Cheikh Sidiya, the founder of the library and of Mokthar Ould Daddah, the father of Mauritania’s independence. After exploring this historic city, we head towards R’kiz.
Upon arrival, you will discover Lake R’kiz, the true breadbasket of Mauritania, with its arable lands and miles of rice fields. Herders and farmers roam around this inexhaustible reservoir, creating a striking contrast with the desert landscapes of the country.
R’kiz – Moujriya
Departure to the town of Moujriya, a former French army fortress that stands as a testament to Mauritania’s colonial history. This historically rich site immerses you in the region’s military past.
To conclude the day, we spend the night in a bivouac, enjoying a delicious tea in a traditional nomadic tent or under the stars, savoring the vastness and tranquility of the desert.
Moujriya – N’beika – Matmata
Departure to the N’beika Oasis, renowned for its vast palm grove, a true natural treasure. After lunch on-site, we will explore the extensive palm groves and the Matmatah Guelta, a fascinating place where a few crocodiles still survive (recently observed), offering a rare spectacle in the heart of the Mauritanian desert.
We will end the day with a bivouac under the stars or in a traditional nomadic tent, allowing for a complete immersion into the wild beauty of Mauritania.
Matmata – Tidjkja – Rachide
Departure to Tidjikja, the capital of Tagant, where you will discover its lively market, traditional old houses, and the unique atmosphere of this historic town. After the visit, we continue our journey to the Rachid Oasis, where the new town and the old town face each other, separated by the valley. The ruins of the old town, a national heritage site, stand as a poignant reminder of history.
The town was completely destroyed after being bombarded by artillery fire from the French colonial army in 1908.
We will spend the night in a bivouac under the stars or in a traditional nomadic tent, sipping tea in the heart of the desert for an unforgettable experience.
Rachide – Kasar el-Barka
Departure to Gasr el-Barka, a ghost town abandoned to time. Founded in the 17th century by the Kounta people, Gasr el-Barka was built in the steep valley of El-Ebiad, at the heart of one of the most beautiful hydrographic networks in the Tagant region. Before its destruction in 1822, this small town thrived thanks to caravan trade and date palm cultivation.
Gasr el-Barka boasts remarkable architecture, with thick walls made of well-cut sandstone blocks joined with banco (mud mortar). The facades are adorned with beautiful triangular alcoves, showcasing the craftsmanship of its builders.
After this immersion into history, we spend the night in a bivouac under the stars or in a traditional nomadic tent, sipping tea in the heart of the desert for an unforgettable experience.
Kasar el-Barka – Route to Nouakchott
Departure toward the Route de l’Espoir, the main highway connecting the eastern part of the country to the capital. This journey will take you through the emblematic towns of Aleg and Boutilimit, as well as numerous nomadic villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the lifestyle of local communities.
We continue our route through the vast Saharan landscapes before setting up our bivouac under the stars or in a nomadic tent for one final night immersed in the natural beauty of Mauritania.
Return to Nouakchott
Return to Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania. We will start with a stroll along the beaches, bustling with the return of fishermen to the port, where you can observe the lively atmosphere of this coastal city.
Next, we will visit the local museum, offering insights into Mauritania’s history and culture, followed by a trip to the vibrant market, perfect for picking up traditional souvenirs.
To conclude this adventure, we will enjoy a delicious dinner in town before transferring you to the airport for your departure.
*The price includes: 
- Reception and transfer to the airport
- Accommodation
- Full board
- Camping equipment (Nomad tent.)
- Transport in 4×4 Vehicles
- 4×4 fuels
- spear fees
- Guide
- To cook
- Entrances to sites and museums and libraries.
* Not Included in the price: 
- Fly and cool
- visa fees
- Travel assistance insurance
- drinks and personal expenses, tips
- All charges not specified.
Discover the Dunes and Oases of Tagant Circuit
The Dunes and Oases of Tagant Circuit offers a complete immersion into a lesser-known but equally fascinating region compared to Adrar. Located in the heart of Mauritania, Tagant is an ideal destination for those seeking to explore an authentic desert, rich in diverse landscapes, history, and culture. This 4×4 journey takes you through spectacular dunes, preserved oases, and traditional villages, all in a more intimate setting than Adrar.
The Dunes of Tagant
The dunes of Tagant are among the most beautiful in Mauritania. Less frequented than those of Adrar, they provide an ideal setting for hikes or 4×4 excursions. Their majestic shapes and ever-changing colors throughout the day make them a paradise for photography enthusiasts and lovers of desert landscapes. Sunrise and sunset over these dunes are magical moments, where the silence and vastness of the desert truly come alive.
The Oases of Tagant
In the heart of this arid landscape, the oases of Tagant are true treasures. These havens of peace, such as those in Tidjikja or Moudjéria, contrast with the surrounding desert thanks to their lush palm groves and refreshing water sources. These oases are lifelines for local communities, who cultivate dates, vegetables, and fruits here. A stop at one of these oases is the perfect opportunity to enjoy mint tea, meet the locals, and discover their traditional way of life.
Traditional Villages
Tagant is home to ancient villages that bear witness to a rich history and preserved cultural heritage. Towns like Tidjikja, founded in the 17th century, or the stone villages scattered across the region, highlight the importance of Tagant in trans-Saharan caravan routes. These villages, often built from stone, blend seamlessly into the desert landscape and offer a fascinating glimpse into local architecture.
Encounters with Nomads
Tagant is the territory of Mauritanian nomads, who maintain an ancestral way of life. Meeting these communities, sharing mint tea, or listening to stories around a campfire is an unforgettable experience. Their legendary hospitality and traditional skills, such as tent-making or leatherwork, are truly captivating.
This circuit is an invitation to explore the hidden treasures of Tagant, where the beauty of the desert, the richness of history, and the warmth of its people come together to create an unforgettable adventure.
