This 10-day Mauritania travel itinerary will give you a well-rounded experience, with highlights like the camel and fish markets, plus all the must-see sights and desert adventures, balanced with some well-deserved downtime. Of course, the Iron Ore Train experience is also included.
Mauritania probably came onto your travel radar because of the Iron Ore Train…
Table of Contents
Visa Information for Mauritania
Mauritania has a relatively straightforward visa process, but it’s important to know the details to avoid any surprises upon arrival.
- Visa-Free Access: Citizens of certain countries can enter Mauritania visa-free for stays ranging from a few days to several weeks. Check the latest requirements to confirm if your country is on the list.
- Visa on Arrival: For many other nationalities, you can obtain a visa on arrival at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport or other entry points. The visa costs $50 USD and is payable in cash. Make sure to have this amount ready when you arrive at the airport.
- Cash Payment: Remember that you will need to pay for your visa in cash, so ensure you have the exact amount. Credit or debit cards are not accepted for visa payments at the airport.
- SIM Card and Connectivity: If you’re planning to buy a SIM card upon arrival, be aware that SIM card shops at the airport typically close at night. If your flight arrives late, it may be worth arranging a local SIM card in advance or waiting until the next day to buy one.
- IMPORTANT: You will probably have to buy SIM cards on the black market if you don’t have one by the time that you leave the airport. I can almost guarantee that they won’t work. I went three separate days to buy SIM cards, I did so with a local, and they still didn’t work. I also don’t recommend this destination if you are planning to work online. The internet is horrible, wifi in hotels are also bad. So, get an eSIM before coming, and prepare yourself that this won’t be a digital nomad destination haha.
Be sure to double-check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality, as these can change. Always have your passport, travel documents, and any required fees ready when you arrive in Mauritania to ensure a smooth entry.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary – Day 1: Arrival in Nouakchott
Highlights: Nouakchott Mosque, Museum of Mauritania, Le Corniche
- Morning: Arrive in Nouakchott, the capital city. Settle into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit the Nouakchott Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Africa, and the Museum of Mauritania, where you’ll learn about Mauritania’s rich history.
- Evening: Walk along Le Corniche, the seaside promenade, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving Mauritanian specialties.
What to wear:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing like a cotton dress or loose-fitting shirt and pants.
- Comfortable sandals for strolling along the promenade.
People dress really colourful in lightweight and breathable fabrics.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 2: Nouakchott – Camel Market & Fish Market
Highlights: Camel market, Fish market, local culture
- Morning: Visit Nouakchott’s Camel Market—a bustling, colorful market where you can witness the trading of camels, a major part of Mauritanian culture and economy. It’s a great opportunity for some unique photos!
- Afternoon: Head to the Fish Market near the port, one of the largest fish markets in West Africa. It’s lively, filled with fresh catches, and offers a glimpse into local life along Mauritania’s coast.
- Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood from the market or at a local restaurant.
What to wear:
- Loose, breathable clothing like a long tunic or blouse, paired with comfortable pants for walking around.
- A hat or scarf for sun protection.
The fish market is really smelly and the floors are wet. Don’t be like me – wear some closed shoes. Take a scarf with you to cover your nose and mouth…yes, that’s how bad the smell was!
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 3: Nouakchott to Nouadhibou
Highlights: Akbayr (Port Etienne), local seafood
- Morning: Travel north to Nouadhibou (approximately 5-6 hours by car).
- Afternoon: Explore Akbayr, the rusting port area surrounded by desert and abandoned ships, giving it a ghostly atmosphere.
- Evening: Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner in one of the local restaurants.
What to wear:
- Comfortable travel clothes such as a loose shirt and long pants, perfect for the desert journey.
- Light jacket if the evening gets cool.
I was not brave enough to go on the Iron Ore Train, so head over to Against The Compass for a more comprehensible guide on that (linked below).
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 4: Nouadhibou and the Iron Ore Train
Highlights: Iron Ore Train journey, desert landscapes
- Morning: Board the Iron Ore Train heading to Zouérat for an unforgettable 18-hour ride across the desert. The journey offers unique views of Mauritania’s expansive Saharan landscape.
- Afternoon & Evening: Spend the day and night on the train, taking in the remote beauty of the desert.
What to wear:
- Comfortable and breathable clothing such as a t-shirt and pants. A ski-mask or goggles to protect your eyes is also a good idea.
- Sturdy shoes for climbing up to the top of the train cars to enjoy the view.
Photo by Against the Compass.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 5: Zouérat – Relaxation Day
Highlights: Desert relaxation, local culture
- Morning: Arrive in Zouérat and take time to rest after the long train journey. Relax at your accommodation or explore the town at your own pace.
- Afternoon: Visit local shops or enjoy the surrounding desert scenery.
- Evening: Have a peaceful dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant.
What to wear:
- Loose, comfortable clothing for resting, like a soft tunic or light dress.
- Flip-flops or comfortable sandals for casual wear.
A map of the Iron Ore Train’s route.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 6: Zouérat to Chinguetti
Highlights: Chinguetti Mosque, ancient libraries
- Morning: Drive to Chinguetti (approximately 7-8 hours). Chinguetti is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient desert architecture and libraries.
- Afternoon: Visit the Chinguetti Mosque, one of the oldest in the country, and explore ancient libraries with rare Islamic manuscripts.
- Evening: Spend the night in a guesthouse in Chinguetti, where you can enjoy the quiet desert ambiance.
What to wear:
- Comfortable travel clothes suitable for long drives, such as a loose shirt and pants.
- Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during your desert exploration.
The Chinguetti Mosque.
The ancient libraries are disappearing because of the desert. Visit it while you still can.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 7: Chinguetti to Atar
Highlights: Imintanout rock engravings, desert landscapes
- Morning: Drive to Atar (approximately 2 hours), a town surrounded by dramatic desert scenery.
- Afternoon: Explore the Imintanout rock engravings, ancient petroglyphs scattered in the desert, offering a glimpse into Mauritania’s prehistoric past.
- Evening: Explore Atar’s local markets and spend the night in a guesthouse.
What to wear:
- Light and airy clothing, perfect for desert exploration, such as a long-sleeve shirt and lightweight pants.
- Comfortable sneakers for walking in the desert.
Imintanout rock engravings.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 8: Atar to Terjit Oasis
Highlights: Terjit Oasis, desert landscapes
- Morning: Drive to Terjit Oasis, a desert sanctuary surrounded by palm trees and cool water.
- Afternoon: Spend the day enjoying the oasis, take a swim, or relax by the water.
- Evening: Stay overnight in a desert camp or a guesthouse by the oasis.
What to wear:
- A swimsuit for the oasis, paired with a cover-up or loose beachwear for comfort.
- Comfortable sandals or flip-flops for walking around the oasis.
The beautiful Terjit Oasis.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 9: Terjit Oasis to Nouakchott
Highlights: Return to Nouakchott, local markets
- Morning: Drive back to Nouakchott (approximately 6-7 hours).
- Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day relaxing or shopping at local markets for souvenirs.
- Evening: Enjoy a final dinner in Nouakchott.
What to wear:
- Comfortable travel clothes like a light jacket and soft pants for the long drive.
- Comfortable shoes for exploring the city.
You can find a local dress at the market. A nice souvenir.
Mauritania Travel Itinerary –Day 10: Departure from Nouakchott
Highlights: Last-minute shopping, departure
- Morning: Take one last walk through Nouakchott, perhaps visiting some small markets for last-minute souvenirs or simply enjoying the city’s atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Depart for the airport for your onward journey.
What to wear:
- Comfortable travel clothes, such as a simple t-shirt and stretchy pants for comfort on the flight.
Time to say bye-bye to Mauritania!
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended for the desert regions. The Iron Ore Train is a must-do for adventurous travelers.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses and local desert camps offer authentic experiences, but be prepared for basic amenities in some areas.
- Health and Safety: Protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Stay hydrated and carry a basic medical kit for emergencies.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Ask for permission before photographing locals.
If you are interested in my other travel articles:
https://blumulberry.com/category/travel
For outfit inspo, you can read the fashion section on my website and follow me on Pinterest:
Sources and useful links:
https://www.prokerala.com/news/photos/nouakchott-beach-43825.html
https://againstthecompass.com/en/iron-ore-train-mauritania/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauritania_Railway
https://icesco.org/en/2024/12/15/icesco-restores-historic-mosque-of-chinguetti-in-mauritania
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/interactive/2023/mauritania-libraries-desert
https://africanrockart.org/mauritania
https://www.chingitours.com/en/spot/terjit-en
@dcoreraphotography