If you’re planning your first trip to Mauritania, here’s my budget-friendly 5 days in Mauritania itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this fascinating country.
A couple of months ago, I visited Mauritania for the first time. I was on a road trip through West Africa. After talking to my dad, who had made the trip six years earlier and shared stories of hauling his motorbike onto the legendary iron ore train after his desert adventure, I knew it was somewhere I had to visit.
Mauritania is an off-beat destination, perfect for the intrepid explorer. With limited travel infrastructure, getting around can be challenging, but the rugged desert landscape, ancient cities, and palm oases make it one of the top destinations for adventurous travellers.
I loved my five days in Mauritania. It was a wild adventure from start to finish. In this post, I’m sharing all the highlights of my trip. If you’re looking for what to do in Mauritania for five days, you’re going to love this itinerary!
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5 Days In Mauritania Travel Itinerary For First Time Visitors
The most essential piece of information I can give you is to be patient and open-minded. Travelling around Mauritania is tough at the best of times, but the reward is a unique once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trust me, it will be one of the best memories of your life.
Why I loved Mauritania
Mauritania is an extremely fascinating country. While I wasn’t too fond of the capital or Nouadhibou, inner Mauritania was a winner for me.
Everything from the stunning scenery to the friendly people made my experience amazing. It was also the first time I visited a desert oasis, something on my bucket list for years.
But it wasn’t just the beauty of the country that warmed my heart.
I visited Mauritania at a time when I was searching for a deeper sense of joy. Although I didn’t realise it at the time, the desert escape was exactly what I needed to acknowledge my whole life needed to change.
Alongside the rugged wilderness, I loved my time in Mauritania as it gave me the space for reflection and personal growth.
What’s so special about the iron ore train?
If you’ve done any research into Mauritania, you’ve probably heard about the formidable iron ore train. It’s been hailed as one of the most epic and adventurous train journeys in the world. So, of course, it was on my hit list while visiting the country.
The train is awesome, and I’ve made sure to include the journey in this 5-day Mauritania itinerary.
The train is special because it offers a unique and raw travel experience unlike anything else. Riding atop the train, you get to witness the vastness of the Sahara Desert in a way few ever do.
The journey is rough and challenging, but it’s a true adventure that you’ll never forget.
Summary: 5 Day Mauritania Backpacking Itinerary
- Nouakchott: Camel Fair, Fish Market and National Museum
- Terjit: Oasis, Canyons and Sand Dunes
- Chinguetti: Libraries and the Old Town
- Choum: Iron Ore Train
Essential Mauritania Travel Resources
Is this your first time visiting Mauritania? I’ve written loads of helpful posts and a Mauritania travel guide to help you plan your trip.
Below are some of my most popular articles
- Mauritania was memorable, to say the least; ride the iron ore train
- Terjit Oasis was my fav place in Mauritania.
- Safety is of the upmost importance, here are my tips.
- History enthusiasts should make sure to visit Chinguetti.
- I always have a brilliant time in Sierra Leone, these are the reasons why.
- I also have to tell you about the Tacugama Chimp Centre; don’t miss this activity!
⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re going to be using your phone, don’t forget about overseas data roaming. You’ll get charged for using your data. Try Airalo’s eSIMs and download a digital data pack. It’s quick and easy; great if you’re in a hurry.
5 Days In Mauritania Backpacking Itinerary
Are you ready to dive into this 5 day itinerary in Mauritania? I’m excited to share with you the best way to explore the country. I’ve done this itinerary, so I guarantee you’ll love it and that it’s logistically possible.
How to spend 5 days in Mauritania: day 1
Location: Nouakchott
Activities: National Museum, Fish Market & Camel Fair.
Where to stay: Auberge Triskell Hotel
It’s most likely you’ll land in Mauritania if you’re flying directly to the country. I entered from the north of Senegal and drove north to Nouakchott. As mentioned, Nouakchott wasn’t my favourite city; I’d suggest spending no more than two days there, but for this itinerary, you’ll have just one day to explore the main sites before heading inland.
The National Museum is well worth a visit and offers excellent insights into Mauritania’s culture, archaeology, and history.
The Fish Market (Porte de Pêche) is a bustling hub where you can see the local fishing trade and enjoy freshly caught seafood. Another popular attraction is the Camel Fair, where you can witness traditional camel trading and experience a slice of local life.
🌟 My top pick >> Join this Private full-day tour of the capital to discover the top attractions, including the National Museum of Mauritania, Fish Market and Camel Market, and learn about Mauritania’s culture and heritage from a local guide.
Hotel shoutout >> I stayed in the Auberge Triskell Hotel in the heart of Nouakchott. It’s styled with a bohemian vibe. Although it is a little run-down, it was still a great stay. The owner was very helpful in providing information for my journey to Terjit; read my full review of Auberge Triskell!
Day 2 in Mauritania is for travel & star gazing.
Location: Nouakchott to Terjit
Activities: Travel day
Where to stay: Camp Chez Jamel – (my full review here!)
After Nouakchott, it’s time to move inland towards the small settlement of Terjit. The problem is, it’s pretty far away from the capital—about 400 km—and since I decided to use the public bus (also called a shared taxi), the journey took all day. One thing I will say is that delays are common, and you should allocate a full day of travel if you’re using public transport.
Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi. If you want to do this, speak to your hotel, as they will be able to recommend a reliable driver. This option can become a little pricey, so it makes sense to travel with others and split the cost.
For solo travel, I was told to be at the bus stop at 11 am. In truth, it didn’t get going until 12:40 pm and took about 6 hours, with a stop in Atar for a meal. I arrived in Terjit around 7 pm. I made pick-up arrangements with the owner of Camp Chez Jamel, which I advise you to do.
Camp Chez Jamel is wonderful. It’s on the outskirts of the oasis and totally isolated from civilisation. Small tents are set up for sleeping, and in the evening, it’s possible to walk up a small hill and sit under the stars. As there is no light pollution in Terjit, this is one of the best places to go stargazing.
⭐ Pro tip >> The bus stop is here, and you’re looking for the Tessir Voyage bus company. The bus costs 500 MRU. Accommodation in the camp was 700 MRU for the night with breakfast and dinner.
5 days in Mauritania itinerary: day 3
Location: Terjit
Activities: Terjit Oasis, Canyon Hike & Sand Dunes
Where to stay: Camp Chez Jamel
Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have either a full day or a day and a half at Terjit.
On day three in Mauritania, spend your time exploring the palm oasis and the surrounding canyons. This breathtaking place was the highlight of my trip; a bucket list destination firmly ticked off.
From the camp, you’ll see palm trees shooting out between the rocky enclave, gathering around a central pool. The walk from camp is less than ten minutes. I arrived at the entrance by following a winding sandy path along a small stream that trickled through the trees, leading to a small bathing pool.
The best part was that no one else was there. I was told that people tend to gather under the trees on weekends for picnics. However, during the week and in April, it was just me and one Polish guy I soon befriended.
Nearby, there is a trail towards the top of the canyon. We hiked up and emerged, overlooking the stunning canyon views. It’s also possible to walk over to the dunes from here, which I highly recommend. The views are incredible.
⭐ Pro tip >> The entrance to the oasis is 200 MRU. There’s a small stall selling crafts and honey, and you can arrange to have a picnic at the camp.
Mauritania day 4 itinerary for first-time travellers
Location: Chinguetti – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Activities: Library, Old Town & Tea Room
Where to stay: Auberge Zarga (Chinguetti)
I’m changing the itinerary slightly because I did this a little differently. I’ll share both versions so you can decide which you prefer. Ultimately, it depends on whether you’re catching the night train or the day train: sunrise or sunset.
Either way, day four in Mauritania should be spent in Chinguetti. Chinguetti is an ancient city half buried in the sand. Desertification is quite a serious problem, and unless action is taken soon, the city will be entirely swallowed by the desert. It features a crumbling old town with numerous libraries home to Islamic manuscripts dating back centuries.
Before I left Chinguetti, I visited a traditional tea room and enjoyed a freshly brewed green tea overlooking the Old Town; it was a nice respite from the heat. I also popped into a small shop where the owner was selling souvenirs and crafts.
Getting to Chinguetti can be tricky. I was told there was a morning bus; however, we decided to hire a private driver from Terjit to take us to Chinguetti and then to Choum on the same day. It was expensive, even though we tried to negotiate the price down. The issue is that there was no one else to take us, and our driver knew it. In the end, we paid €300 for three people.
The drive from Terjit to Chinguetti was spectacular. We drove over the Zagar highland, which was similar to the landscape of Iceland, or so I was told; I haven’t been. I saw herds of wild camels and nomadic encampments, and we even passed through another oasis – Mhairith Oasis.
Alternative Options
Where to stay: Auberge Vasque (Ouadane)
If time isn’t an issue, I’d recommend catching the morning bus/driver to go to Chinguetti. Either stay in the city the night or continue to Ouadane in the afternoon and stay there the night. Prices are negotiable, but I’d budget around €300 – €500 for a driver over the two days ending in Choum.
Our driver: Lamin +222 47 92 75 26
Mauritania trip itinerary day 5
Location: Iron Ore Train
Day 5 of my Mauritania itinerary is dedicated to catching the Iron Ore Train. This legendary train, the world’s longest and heaviest, covers 704 km (437 miles) and connects the iron ore mines in Zouerat to the port city of Nouadhibou.
I boarded the evening train from Choum, a small town in northern Mauritania. I recommend catching the train from here because, while the journey is exhilarating, it’s also harsh and uncomfortable. There’s no reason to extend the trip unnecessarily—starting from Zouerat adds an additional six hours. From Choum, it still took us 14 hours to reach Nouadhibou.
I boarded the 10 pm train in the evening after visiting Chinguetti, which allowed me to ride through the night and witness the sunrise. Alternatively, the midday train (there are supposedly three trains a day) offers spectacular sunset views. I’d like to return and experience the daytime journey, but either way, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For anyone planning this adventure, I’ve written a practical step-by-step guide to catching Mauritania’s Iron Ore Train, covering everything you’ll need to know.
⭐ Pro tip >> Since I jumped on the train in the evening of the fourth day, I arrived in Nouadhibou around midday on day five. If you catch it on day five, this will extend your Mauritania itinerary to six days, arriving on the morning of day six.
Are 5 Days In Mauritania Enough?
For this particular itinerary, five days in Mauritania are enough. That said, it always depends on individual travel plans and preferences. Each location can be extended if you wish. While I managed to visit these highlights in five days, it might be a bit rushed for you.
In truth, I could have spent a few more days in the heart of the country, visiting Ouadane city and the Eye of the Sahara, which would have been amazing.
Other highlights in Mauritania
Due to time restraints, it was unfortunate that I missed some incredible locations in Mauritania. If you have more than five days, consider adding them to your itinerary. I’d love to return and explore deeper into the Sahara and ride the iron ore train again!
- Ouadane: A historic city with ancient ruins and a rich history.
- Banc d’Arguin National Park: A stunning coastal park known for its birdlife and pristine beaches.
- Eye of the Sahara (Richat Structure): A geological wonder that is best seen from above, resembling a giant eye in the desert.
Exploring these additional spots would make a great additions to your 5 day Mauritania itinerary!
Mauritanian travel insurance
When exploring countries like Mauritania and doing adventurous activities, such as riding the iron ore train, it’s essential to prioritise your safety in unexpected situations. Having the right travel insurance is important. Check the best quote for Mauritania!
⭐ For my recent travels, I’ve also started using SafetyWing to book my travel medical insurance. I need peace of mind, especially after seeing friends rushed to the hospital and another break her back.
I travel a lot and use the SafetyWing and World Nomads often, so I thought I’d share my knowledge after using the two travel insurance companies and give you a low-down of their coverage so you can decide which is best suited to your travel plans.
Is Mauritania safe?
👉 Full post here >> The ultimate guide to safety in Mauritania
This is a controversial question, as depending on who you ask, Mauritania can be seen as either safe or unsafe. The FCDO advises against travel to particular areas as there are certain aspects, such as regional conflicts and terrorism, that can make it a risky destination.
This is not a country to visit if you’re concerned about safety.
Terrorism is a concern in regions near the borders of Mali and Algeria, but it’s a remote part of the country and unlikely you’ll be going there.
Even so, Mauritania offers a unique and adventurous travel experience that I absolutely loved and that you won’t necessarily find in a more “safe” country. It’s quite possibly this element of danger that has kept Mauritania off the main tourist trails, making it so raw.
That said, I felt absolutely safe during my travels across Mauritania. There was not one incident where I felt in danger.
However, safety remains a key consideration when visiting. Petty crimes, like bag snatching and pickpocketing, can occur in urban areas like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
Healthcare facilities are limited, so ensure you have complete travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and carry a basic medical kit.
Transportation can also be challenging due to poor road conditions, so hiring a local guide or driver is popular.
⭐ Pro tip >> There are tons of checkpoints in Mauritania, and I was asked for a “fiche” at almost everyone. This is a photocopy of your passport; I suggest taking a load with you. I had 20 copies, and it wasn’t enough. If you don’t have one, they will take your passport to write all the information down (sometimes they take a photo), but if they are writing, it takes a long time, and you’ll waste a lot of time and possibly annoy the local passengers.
Mauritania Trip Tips For First-Time Visitors
- The local currency is the Ouguiya (MRU). Carry money, as credit and debit cards are only accepted in major cities. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check the current rate before you travel.
- The main roads in Mauritania, that is, the N2 coastal road and the N1 inland road, are okay to drive, but any diversion can be challenging due to poor road conditions. Just keep this in mind if you’re self-driving
- The official language is Arabic, but you’ll notice French is spoken. If you can, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in French. Knowing some local greetings and polite expressions can go a long way.
- Accommodation options range from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. I suggest booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons: November to February.
- Try local dishes, but be cautious with street food. To avoid waterborne illnesses, never drink tap water; use bottled water.
The iron ore train
The iron ore train is bloody freezing, and I mean freezing. The wind is unforgiving, especially if you’re riding through the night, so be prepared. Expect long delays if using public transport, including the ride on the iron ore train. Riding atop the train is FREE. However, if you prefer the passenger cart for a slightly more comfortable ride, you’ll have to pay 250 MRU.
Patience is crucial to enjoy this journey.
Essential Packing Items
- Turban | Useful for protecting your face from dust and sand.
- Coat & Gloves | Essential for keeping warm during cold nights.
- Sun Hat / Cap & Sunglasses | Shield your eyes from the intense sun and dust. Ski goggles are not necessary.
- Snacks and Water | The train does not have food or drink facilities, so bring enough for the journey.
- Sunscreen | Make sure you protect your skin.
- Water Bottle | We always leave the hotel with our water bottle; it is our favourite.
- Bug Repellant | There’s a few around so be sure to pack something.
5-Day Mauritania Itinerary FAQs
I’ve been asked a handful of fundamental questions about visiting Mauritania, which I thought I’d quickly run through with you below in case you have the same questions.
Can women travel to Mauritania?
Mauritania is a predominantly Muslim country, but women can travel. I visited most of Mauritania as a solo female traveller, and although I met people along the way, I never felt unsafe. It’s essential to be appropriately dressed and to respect local customs and traditions. I wore a headscarf (turban) throughout the majority of my trip, even in the capital, but certainly in rural areas. I did this out of respect, although I noticed that the local women weren’t as strict with their head scarfs as I’ve seen in other Islamic countries.
Do I need a visa to visit Mauritania?
For Mauritania, most countries will require a visa to enter so ensure you have a valid visa before arriving. That said, some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, but it’s best to check the latest requirements and regulations. For UK citizens, it’s €50 on arrival.
What’s the best way to get to Nouakchott?
The easiest way to reach Mauritania’s capital, Nouakchott, is by plane. The main carriers that operate flights to Nouakchott include Air France, Royal Air Maroc, and Turkish Airlines. These airlines offer regular flights from various international hubs, making it convenient for travellers from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
What’s Mauritania like to travel?
Mauritania is an adventurous and unique travel destination that I absolutely love. Travel here can be challenging and unpredictable, so patience and an open mind are vital for a successful trip.
As a conservative Muslim country, it’s essential to dress modestly, respect local customs, and be mindful of religious practices. The Iron Ore Train ride is a breathtaking adventure, but it can also be harsh and potentially dangerous, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Stay informed about local conditions, follow safety precautions, and you’ll be set for a safe and rewarding experience.
Final Thoughts | 5 Days In Mauritania Itinerary
Mauritania is a remarkable and unforgettable destination. My five days exploring this vast and beautiful country were filled with adventure, reflection, and discovery; from the captivating iron ore train journey to the serene beauty of Terjit Oasis, every moment offered something unique and memorable.
Yes, travelling here can be challenging and requires patience, but those challenges are what make the rewards worthwhile. Mauritania’s rugged landscapes, ancient cities, and rich culture are a true testament to the spirit of adventure. If you’re ready for a trip that pushes boundaries and opens your eyes to the wonders of the Sahara, then this itinerary is for you.
I came to Mauritania seeking a unique experience and found it in the country’s raw beauty and simple pleasures. This adventure reminded me of the importance of embracing the unexpected and appreciating the journey itself. If you have the chance to visit, take it. It’s an adventure you won’t forget!
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