Adrar Standard Tour | 7 Days

Our journey begins in Nouakchott, the bustling capital city that’s only 60 years old but brims with energy and surprises. Discover the vibrant fishing port of Sebkha, where fishermen haul in the day’s catch, and the famed camel market of Toujounine, a labyrinth of chaos, color, and culture. It's said that the market here is unmatched in size across all of West Africa—an authentic sensory overload. As the day winds down, enjoy the serene beauty of the Saudi Mosque, unwind in the peaceful municipal garden, and sip a glass of traditional tea by the golden sands of the beach. With ChingiTours, you won’t need to worry

On day two, we set off for Terjit, an oasis nestled in the folds of the mountains just 30 km from Atar. Here, amid the shade of towering date palms, we’ll pause for lunch and perhaps take a dip in a natural, year-round spring. It’s the perfect antidote to the heat. From here, we head to Atar, the economic heart of the Adrar region, where you can explore the lively market and stock up on supplies—gas, water, and cash—before venturing deeper into the desert. As the sun sets over the dunes, we’ll arrive in Mhaireth, a tranquil oasis where we’ll spend the night under a starry sky.

Day three is all about history, legend, and a UNESCO marvel. We’ll start with a breathtaking desert sunrise before heading to the World Heritage Site of Chinguetti— Mauritania’s ancient jewel and a symbol of the Saharan caravan trade. Along the way, we’ll pass the evocative Fort Saganne, built for the eponymous film, and explore the rock paintings of Agrour. In Chinguetti, walk through centuries-old streets, where the sand threatens to reclaim the ancient city. Marvel at the historic mosque, visit the legendary libraries filled with ancient manuscripts, and hear stories from the locals about this desert outpost that was once a thriving center of learning.

Our journey continues to Ouadane, a remote Ksar perched on a hill with a labyrinth of ancient streets begging to be explored. Here, local guides will share the secrets of Ouadane’s storied past—once a vital stop along trans-Saharan trade routes. But the real highlight of the day is the Richat Structure—the “Eye of the Sahara.” This colossal geological formation, visible even from space, will take your breath away. After an exhilarating 4x4 ride to the heart of this natural wonder, we’ll return to Ouadane for a well-deserved meal and a peaceful night under the stars.

The morning brings us to the sand dunes of Azougui, a site of immense historical significance and natural beauty. Once the capital of the Almoravid dynasty, the ancient city is home to the tomb of the revered scholar Imam Hadrami. After soaking in the beauty and history, we’ll head to Choum for one of the most unforgettable adventures of the trip: a ride on the world’s longest train in the Sahara. This 2.5 km long iron ore train, affectionately called “The Iron Snake,” stretches for miles and makes for a truly epic desert journey. Pack your mattresses, lay back, and enjoy a 12-hour ride on the sands, crossing vast dunes and staring at endless skies—an experience that’s completely legal, and utterly surreal.

After the long train ride, we arrive in Nouadhibou, Mauritania’s second-largest city, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sahara. Explore the bustling Port Artisanal, a more picturesque and historic counterpart to the Nouakchott fishing port. But first, a quick word of advice: after spending 12 hours on the back of a cargo train, you’ll probably look like a Saharan chimney sweep. A good scrub is in order! After some well-deserved cleansing and relaxation, we’ll make our way back to Nouakchott. For those seeking to continue their adventure, the road to Morocco is just a stone’s throw away, and we’re happy to help extend your journey in any way you wish.

Mauritania is a land of vast landscapes and unforgettable moments. If you want to linger a little longer in one of the incredible spots we’ve visited, let us know. Whether it’s extra days in the desert, more time exploring Chinguetti’s ancient manuscripts, or additional time on the train, we’ll tailor the final leg of your adventure to suit your pace.