Mauritania Road Trip Itinerary
Take the Mauritania Road Trip for a journey through the captivating landscapes of the African country. Starting in the capital city of Nouakchott, the 2457 km route takes you through the towns of Nouadhibou, Boutilimit, Kiffa, Ayoun el Atrous and Néma. It is recommended to plan for 12 days to complete this trip, with the best time of the year to drive being between October and April.
Along the route, you will be amazed by the vast and varied landscapes, from the vast sand dunes of the Sahara Desert to the lush oases. There are also many UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore, including the Ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the old city of Néma.
The roads in Mauritania can be in poor condition, with some roads only accessible to 4WD vehicles, and some roads not suitable for motorhomes. However, this road trip is suitable for drivers of all levels. With careful budgeting, it can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.
12
number of days
3,547 km
route length
moderate
budget
adventurer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
extreme
accident level
START
Nouakchott
Distance 3,547 km
Driving time 177.0 h
Pace: slow
815.8 kWh
Airports
NKC
[detailsContainer]
Nouakchott is the capital of Mauritania and the perfect starting point for the "Mauritania Road Trip". Located on the Atlantic coast of the Sahara Desert, it has much to offer. Visit the Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, or take a walk along the port and enjoy a peaceful sunset. The National Museum is a must-see, with a great collection of artifacts from all over the country.
For those traveling by air, Nouakchott International Airport (NKC) is the closest, and car rental services are available there. This is the ideal way to begin your road trip, as the roads in Mauritania are often of a high standard. Make sure to visit the nearby Oualata, an ancient trading post and UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historical monuments.
Head south to Rosso and visit the Old River, a wide river delta near the Senegal border. It's a great spot for birdwatching and a peaceful end to your first day of exploring. Another important stop in the south is the Chinguetti Mosque, a holy site of the Islamic faith and a great place to learn more about the country's culture.
No matter where you go on the "Mauritania Road Trip", you will be sure to find plenty of adventure and sights to see. Start your journey in Nouakchott and explore the country's diverse landscape and culture!
1
Nouakchott
- Nouadhibou
Distance 524 km
Driving time 9.7 h
Pace: modest
136.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip experience from Nouakchott to Nouadhibou! This 392 km stretch of road takes you through the beautiful Cap Blanc region, and can be completed in fewer than 5 hours. A 4WD car is recommended for this journey, as the terrain can be challenging. As you drive, keep an eye out for the picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and scenic roads that make this part of Mauritania so special. Be sure to take some time to explore the area, as there are plenty of interesting attractions to discover. For an even more immersive experience, more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Nouadhibou - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
2
Nouadhibou
- Iwik
Distance 296 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
88.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip starting in Nouadhibou, Mauritania and passing through the Banc d'Arguin National Park to Iwik. This 296 km drive will take you less than 3 hours, so you can take your time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. For this section, it is advisable to drive a 4WD car. Along the way you can visit UNESCO Heritage sites and take in the beauty of the desert. Keep your eyes open and you may spot some wildlife in the area. Additionally, there are many attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready to explore the amazing desert and have an unforgettable journey!
Iwik - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - Wikimapia
❯
❮
3
Iwik
- Boutilimit
Distance 338 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: fast
101.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Iwik to Boutilimit! This 337 km journey will take you fewer than 6 hours and is sure to be an adventure. You'll need a 4WD vehicle to take on the winding roads and scenic views, so make sure you're prepared! Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most interesting places in Mauritania, including Gorgol, Magta Lahjar, and Kediet Ijill. Gorgol is home to the beautiful Lake Magta Lahjar, a great spot for swimming, fishing, and bird watching. Kediet Ijill is a stunning natural area with a variety of wildlife and plenty of outdoor activities. Finally, Boutilimit is a small town that's full of life and culture. Here, you can find traditional markets, delicious food, and friendly locals. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Boutilimit - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - - Wikipedia
❯
❮
4
Boutilimit
- Sangrave
Distance 247 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: fast
74.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the road trip stage from Boutilimit to Sangrave! This stage is 250km long and it will take you fewer than 4 hours to drive.
Your journey starts in Boutilimit, where you can visit the old city centre and the archaeological site of Tagant. Tagant is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is a great place to learn about the history of Mauritania.
Your next stop is the small town of Aleg, where you can visit the old market and the old mosque. The market is a great place to buy local crafts and souvenirs.
The last stop of this stage is Sangrave, a small town that is known for its beautiful beaches and its traditional architecture. Here you can relax on the beach and explore the old town.
We hope you enjoy your road trip from Boutilimit to Sangrave. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Sangrave - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - QuotaTrip
❯
❮
5
Sangrave
- Kiffa
Distance 202 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
60.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Sangrave to Kiffa! This 202km journey takes a little less than 3 hours, and is one of the stages of a larger tour. The first stop is the city of Sangrave, where you can visit the Sangrave Mosque and the Sangrave Museum. Next, you will drive through the beautiful landscape of Mauritania and make a stop in Bassiknou to explore the Bassiknou Mosque and the Bassiknou Museum. After that, you will continue your journey to Kiffa, where you can visit the Kiffa Mosque and the Kiffa Museum. These attractions are a must-see for any road-tripper, and will give you a glimpse of Mauritania's rich cultural heritage. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Sangrave to Kiffa!
Kiffa - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
6
Kiffa
- Ayoun el Atrous
Distance 216 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: modest
56.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Start your journey in Kiffa, Mauritania and make your way to Ayoun el Atrous, a 216km drive that will take you no more than three hours. Along the way, you will come across some of the most beautiful and unique sights that Mauritania has to offer. Make sure you have a 4WD car to make the most of the journey, as you'll have the chance to witness the stunning scenery that Mauritania has to offer. Don't forget to stop at the most interesting places along the way, such as the gorgeous landscapes of the Sahara Desert, the picturesque villages, and the vibrant markets. Don't forget to take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and the majestic mountains. You'll also have the chance to explore the ancient ruins and monuments, as well as the vibrant culture and history of the region. So, make sure you make the most of your journey, and don't forget to take lots of photos! For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Ayoun el Atrous - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - - Wikipedia
❯
❮
7
Ayoun el Atrous
- Néma
Distance 278 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: fast
83.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Ayoun el Atrous to Néma! This 278km stretch of road takes you through the beautiful Mauritanian desert and is sure to be an adventure to remember. You'll need a 4WD car to tackle this route, but the stunning views you'll see along the way make it worth it.
As you drive, keep an eye out for the picturesque desert scenery, from sand dunes to rocky outcrops, and the unique wildlife that inhabits this region. Make sure to take plenty of breaks to take in the views and be sure to bring plenty of water for the journey.
When you reach Néma, you'll find a bustling market and a vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can explore the winding streets and discover the local culture. There are also plenty of restaurants in the area where you can sample some of the delicious local cuisine.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the ‘Itinerary’ section of this stage.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a road trip you won't forget!
Néma - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
8
Néma
- Walata
Distance 135 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: slow
31.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Néma to Walata and experience the beauty of the Mauritanian desert! This 45 km journey will take you fewer than 2 hours and you will be mesmerized by the views of the desert and the oases. Make sure you have a 4WD as some sections are inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Be aware that camping is not recommended in some sections and that there might be a lack of gas stations. While on the road, make sure to pay attention to the scenic road and enjoy the breathtaking views. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Walata - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - Wikiwand
❯
❮
9
Walata
- Tichitt
Distance 435 km
Driving time 14.9 h
Pace: slow
100.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Walata, Mauritania to Tichitt! This 70km journey will take you fewer than 27 hours, and you will be able to experience some of the most stunning sights in the region.
Due to the terrain, 4WD is required for this journey, and it is not recommended for campers in some sections. Additionally, some sections may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Be sure to keep an eye out for gas stations, as there may be a lack of them at this stage.
Along the route, you will be able to explore some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as historical sites and scenic roads. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the beauty of the area!
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Happy travels!
Tichitt - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
10
Tichitt
- Tidikja
Distance 240 km
Driving time 115.3 h
Pace: slow
55.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Tichitt to Tidikja! This stage of your journey is 242 km long and will take you less than 117 hours to complete. Along the way, you will get to explore some of the most interesting places in Mauritania, including the stunning views of the desert. Be sure to bring a 4WD vehicle as some sections of the road may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Also, be mindful of the lack of gas stations in some areas. As you drive, take in the beautiful scenery and make sure to take lots of pictures!
At the end of your journey, you will have reached Tidikja, the gateway to the Sahara. Here you can explore the ancient ruins of the city, as well as its beautiful mosques and markets. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Tidikja - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - Travel Planner
Tidikja - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
11
Tidikja
- Sangrave
Distance 205 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
61.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime and experience the beauty of the 205km journey from Tidikja to Sangrave. This short road trip will take you less than 4 hours, so pack your bags and get ready for a memorable experience. To make the most of your journey we recommend you to use a 4WD car. Along the way you will be able to admire the stunning views of the desert and the oasis.
Start your trip in Tidikja, a small city with a rich culture. Visit the old fort of Tidikja and the nearby desert ruins. You can also take a stroll around the old town and experience the traditional architecture and culture.
Continue your journey to Sangrave, a small town known for its beautiful desert oasis. Here you can explore the oasis and its picturesque surroundings. Take a walk around the village and discover its old buildings and monuments.
This is just one of the many stages of your journey, so make sure to check the Itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip!
12
Sangrave
- Aleg
Distance 136 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
40.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a 136km journey through the beautiful desert of Mauritania, starting in Sangrave and ending in Aleg. This short trip, which can be done in less than two hours, is part of a larger tour and is best done in a 4WD car.
Along the way, you can visit the mesmerizing Oasis of Goss, a hidden paradise in the desert. Here you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the oasis, surrounded by lush vegetation. You can also explore the nearby ancient ruins of the old city of Goss, which has been a witness to the history of this region.
Further down the road, you can visit the town of Kiffa, renowned for its traditional craftsmanship and vibrant culture. Here you can explore the local markets, which offer a variety of hand-crafted items and souvenirs.
Finally, your journey will end in Aleg, a city known for its stunning architecture and bustling nightlife. Here you can take a walk around the old city and admire the beautiful colonial buildings.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, don’t wait any longer, and start planning your journey through this amazing desert region of Mauritania.
Aleg - Mauritania - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
13
Aleg
- Nouakchott
Distance 296 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: fast
88.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Aleg, Mauritania to Nouakchott! This 302 km journey will take you fewer than 6 hours and is best done in a 4WD car. Along the way, you'll pass through some stunning landscapes, fascinating historical sites and a variety of interesting attractions.
Start your journey in Aleg, where you can visit the old-time fishing village of M’Bagne and the nearby archaeological site of Tichitt. From there, you can drive to the city of Kiffa, where you can explore the old city walls and the nearby palace of the Sultan. Further down the road, you'll come to Aoujeft, where you can visit the ancient mosque and take a tour of the nearby oasis.
Finally, you'll reach the beautiful city of Nouakchott. Here, you can explore the old city walls and take a stroll along the waterfront. Be sure to visit the National Museum and the nearby Souq Al-Juma, where you can find a variety of traditional souvenirs.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for a memorable road trip from Aleg to Nouakchott!
Nouakchott
[detailsContainer]
Nouakchott is the final destination of the Mauritania Road Trip, offering a unique experience in the African continent. It is the capital of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, located on the country’s Atlantic coast. This city is a great place to explore the true essence of the African culture, with its mix of Saharan, Moorish, and Berber influences.
The city has a lot of interesting places to visit, such as the Grand Mosque, the National Museum, and the Souq El Hadd. The Grand Mosque, which can be seen from most of the city, is a great place to learn about the Islamic culture, while the National Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Mauritania. The Souq El Hadd is one of the most popular markets in the city, where you can find traditional Mauritanian crafts and spices.
When it comes to car travel, Nouakchott is very accessible, as it is connected to the rest of the country via the Trans-Mauritanian Railway. The closest international airport, Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC), is located around 8 kilometers from the city center, offering daily flights to major African cities.
Nouakchott is a great place to experience the culture and history of Mauritania, and the perfect place to end the Mauritania Road Trip.
Mauritania Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Nouakchott
-
End:
Nouakchott
-
Distance:
3,547 km
-
Stay:
12 days
-
Getting there:
Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC)
-
When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, October, November, December
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Mauritania Road Trip for a captivating exploration of this West African nation's varied environments. Covering approximately 2457 km from the coastal capital of Nouakchott, this journey takes you through key destinations like Nouadhibou with its maritime wonders, Boutilimit steeped in cultural history, the artisan city of Kiffa, the desert-accented Ayoun el Atrous, and the culturally rich Néma. Ideally spread over 12 days, the Trip offers a deep dive into Mauritania's landscapes, from the Atlantic coast to the shifting sands of the Sahara.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Nouakchott: A vibrant capital city that offers a mix of traditional markets and modern development.
- Nouadhibou: Hosts an incredible Ship Graveyard, with rusting hulks of abandoned vessels off its coast and remarkable biodiversity in the Banc d'Arguin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Boutilimit: A center for Islamic scholarship and traditional Mauritanian crafts, preserving the nation's nomadic heritage.
- Kiffa: Internationally recognized for its intricate hand-painted beads, a unique art form that has been passed down for generations.
- Ayoun el Atrous: Serves as a threshold to the majestic Sahara Desert, offering a glimpse into the vastness of desert landscapes.
- Néma: A town rich in history, where cultural traditions continue to thrive amidst the remnants of ancient trade routes.
- Top Sights: Besides the stunning Sahara dunes, Mauritania boasts of the ancient city of Chinguetti, another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its medieval manuscripts and libraries.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for this Road Trip is from October to April when temperatures are milder and the desert's beauty can be fully appreciated without the intense summer heat.
Potential Risks:
- Some areas have challenging Road conditions, where a 4WD vehicle is essential.
- Certain regions may not accommodate motorhomes, so alternative travel arrangements may be necessary.
- Staying vigilant, especially in less populated areas, is important for personal safety.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Mauritania is home to one of the world's longest trains, which can stretch over 2.5 kilometers and is used to transport iron ore across the desert.
- The country's currency, the Mauritanian ouguiya, is one of the only two non-decimal currencies currently in circulation (1 ouguiya = 5 khoums).
- Mauritania is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Sub-Saharan Africa, the Maghreb, and Arab Bedouin tribes.
A good choice for:
A Mauritania Road Trip offers an unforgettable adventure through spectacular natural sceneries and a tapestry of cultural experiences. With thorough preparation and an adventurous mindset, travelers can discover the heart of Mauritania's beauty and traditions.
-
