10-Day Travel Itinerary for Mauritania
Mauritania can seem off the radar for many travelers, but it’s a country rich in culture and world-class sights. Time moves a little slower here, and that’s part of the charm. For this 10-day itinerary, I’ve crafted a mix of heritage, quiet moments, desert landscapes, and amazing local food. Whether you want to see its capital’s sights or explore the Sahara Desert, you’re in for a surprise.
Day 1: Arrival in Nouakchott
Most international flights land in Nouakchott, the capital city. After checking into your hotel, take it easy. You’ll have time to visit the bustling fish market near the harbor or take a walk along the beach. In the evening, savor some local cuisine at a restaurant—a great option is grilled camel meat or fresh fish. It’s a relaxed day to ease into Mauritania’s slower pace.
Day 2: Explore Nouakchott
Start by getting to know the city better. Visit the Grand Mosque and get a glimpse of local culture. Head to Marche Capitale, where you can see locals buying textiles, crafts, and household goods. Have a traditional Mauritanian lunch, which often consists of couscous or rice with vegetables and spiced meats.
In the late afternoon, visit the National Museum of Mauritania. It’s small but gives a great overview of the country’s history and culture. Later, you can wind down in one of the cozy local cafés serving mint tea.
Day 3: Drive to Chinguetti
Get an early start. Today, you’re heading to Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a major stop on the trans-Saharan trade route. The journey takes about 8 hours by 4×4 through beautiful desert landscapes, so you’ll see the scenery change gradually.
Once in Chinguetti, explore the old town’s sandstone buildings and narrow streets. Visit one of the ancient libraries where Islamic texts have been preserved for centuries. Watch the sunset over the desert dunes before turning in for the night in a guesthouse.
Day 4: Exploring Chinguetti
Wake up in this ancient oasis, take a guided tour of the old city, and visit the various ksour (fortified villages). Chinguetti’s mosque, with its iconic square minaret, is a postcard-perfect sight and one of the oldest in West Africa.
In the afternoon, head out to the surrounding desert dunes. This is also your opportunity to try sandboarding if you’re feeling adventurous. End the day with some downtime to enjoy the serenity of the desert, watch the shifting sands, and stargaze.
Day 5: Road to Ouadane
After breakfast, set off for another UNESCO site: Ouadane. The drive takes about 3 to 4 hours, and the town is home to some of Mauritania’s most stunning ancient ruins. En route, you can stop at Fort Saganne, a remote fortress made famous by a French film.
Once in Ouadane, explore the ruins of this 12th-century caravan town. Wander the labyrinthine streets and climb up to the old citadel for 360-degree desert views. Stay overnight at a simple but comfortable guesthouse.
Day 6: Eye of the Sahara (Guelb er Richat)
Today you’re heading out to see something truly unique: the Eye of the Sahara. Known as the Richat Structure, it’s visible from space and has puzzled scientists for decades. You’ll need a guide with a 4×4 for this day trip, as it’s remote and hard to reach.
You won’t be able to explore every part of the structure, but the surrounding desert views and the oddity of this geological wonder make it worth the trip. In the evening, return to Ouadane to rest.
Day 7: Return to Nouakchott
Today is a long driving day back to Nouakchott. Take some time to relax and enjoy the ride through the desert landscapes, spotting nomadic tribes along the way. You’ll arrive back in Nouakchott by late afternoon, where you can freshen up and have a quiet dinner.
If you have energy left, stroll along the coastline or buy some last-minute souvenirs at the local markets.
Day 8: Nouadhibou and the Shipwreck Graveyard
On day 8, you’ll be catching an early morning flight or taking a road trip to Nouadhibou, Mauritania’s second-largest city. This port town is famous for its shipwreck graveyard, once the largest in the world. Hire a local guide to take you out to see the wrecks—it’s eerie but also breathtaking.
If there’s time, you can also explore the Cap Blanc Peninsula, home to one of the world’s last colonies of Mediterranean monk seals. Stay overnight in Nouadhibou.
Day 9: Banc d’Arguin National Park
Leave Nouadhibou and make your way to Banc d’Arguin National Park, which is about a 3-hour drive away. This coastal park is a UNESCO site and one of the best birdwatching spots in Africa. It’s also home to traditional Imraguen fishermen, and you might even spot them using their old methods to catch fish.
The park’s remote beaches are ideal for some quiet time. Settle down with a book, or just sit back and listen to the waves. If you’re lucky, you could see flamingoes and other migratory birds. Stay overnight at a camp or lodge.
Day 10: Return to Nouakchott and Departure
This is your final day, so take it easy by making the journey back to Nouakchott (around 4 hours). Depending on your flight schedule, you can visit any remaining sights or enjoy one last meal at a local restaurant.
If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, you could squeeze in a quick trip to the Artisanal Market for some crafts to take home. End your trip with a peaceful moment by the beach before heading to the airport.
This itinerary balances must-see spots with quiet moments of reflection. Mauritania is about more than just rushing from one city to another—it’s about soaking in the desert’s silence, learning about ancient cultures, and sharing mint tea with the locals. You’ll walk away with unforgettable memories. Safe travels!
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