Mauritania - Tours & Adventure Travel Guide
PureTravel Says
“Mauritania has a stunning scenery made up of sand dunes and oceans along with a wide spectrum of trekking options and activities, Mauritania is one of the leading holiday destinations of Africa. Laden with deep canyons and protruding plateaus it is a true glimpse of heaven on Earth. The region is also credited with having one of the best bird watching spots in the world at Parc National du Banc d’ Arguin along with other ecotourism opportunities.”
Mauritania Holiday Highlights
History & Culture - Mauritania’s newly born capital city of Noukchott developed in 1960 has some wonderful attractions. Noukchott’s streets are dotted with old school Berber style architecture. The low sand dune region lies close to the sea adjacent to the Ksar and the Plage du Wharf mosque is only one of the must see sights. The Ksar market, camel market, African market, the Maison de la Culture, the craft center and the carpet factory are other sights that you might want to explore.
Birdwatching - The sheer size of the bird sanctuary at the Atlantic desert coast of Mauritania would impress anyone, even if you were not the bird watching type. The sanctuary, known as Parc National du Banc d’Arguin, is considered to be amongst the most spectacular bird watching sights, and you can do it from a pirogue!
Witness the Adrar - The Adrar is a magnificent example of the awe-inspiring scenery of the region. Travelers will get to witness brown and pink plateaus decked with dunes and deep canyons littered with palm groves that cut through the idyllic landscape. You may be required to acquire special permission from the government to witness the Adrar, but it is definitely worth the effort. While there, consider taking a hot-air balloon ride.
Exploring the Coastline - Mauritania’s coastline consists of eight hundred kilometers of sandy beaches with very little vegetation. There are, however, an overwhelming variety of birds that inhabit the area offering a totally different feeling to the visitor from the inland region.
Port Trip - Situated on the northern end of the Bay of Levrier is the heart of a thriving fishing industry and the port of Nouadhibou. The waters are saturated with a large fish population that originally drew people to the area. Visiting Nouadhibou offers visitors the unique experience of getting up close and personal understanding of the working lives of the people in the area. Amongst the attractions are ancient tribes that have a special symbiotic relationship with wild dolphins that are so common to the seas around Levrier that they can often be seen driving shoals of fish close to the shore consequently aiding the fisherman and offering the visitor a rare glimpse of the revered creature.
UNESCO Sites - Connecting Homogjar to the Holy City of Chinguetti is a breathtaking mountain pass that is by far one of the greatest experiences you will be able to witness in Mauritania. Chinguetti was founded in the 13th century and has now been converted into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval mosque in the center of the city along with an ancient library serves as the major attractions of the Holy City of Islam. If you go a little further out, Oualât, Mauritania’s remote desert town will enchant visitors.
Swimming & Sports - There are plenty of water-based activities to enjoy in this sea rich area not to mention many fine exotic places for swimming. You can even go surfing on Mauritania’s west coast. The regions around Nouadhibou have some deserted and remote beaches to explore as well, although safety precautions should be taken.
Shopping - Mauritania has its own specialties to offer to its visitors in the form of souvenirs and artifacts. The region is particularly known for its wide range of engraved silver items, dyed leather cushions, woodcarvings and hand woven rugs. You will also be able to find a fine selection of traditional jewelry.
When To Go
Mauritania experiences the same mix of hot and dry weather for much of the year. The south regions have a rainy season that lasts from July to September and a good time to visit is between March and April when the deserts are cooler and there is a steady cooling wind.
Top Tips
- Check the latest advice before going to areas such as Ouadane, Oualata, Zourerate and Tichit.
- Be prepared for bumpy rides because there are only 4 paved roads outside the main urban areas.
- Always carry your passport with you because you never know when you will be asked to produce it.
Classic Itineraries
- Bird watching at the The Parc National du Banc d’Arguin.
- Visiting the Holy City of Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Witnessing the Adrar
- Hop on the Iron-ore train for a wild ride.
