Embark on the ultimate Adrar Expedition and journey into the heart of Mauritania‘s desert. This multi-day adventure immerses you in the region’s rich history through ancient ksar cities, reveals breathtaking geological wonders, and offers moments of tranquility in the profound silence of the Sahara.
Key Highlights of the Adrar Expedition:
- Journey to the Desert Gate: Begin your Adrar Expedition with a scenic drive from Nouakchott to the charming oasis town of Atar, the gateway to the desert and a hub of traditional hospitality.
- Ancient Ksar & The Eye of the Sahara: Discover the ancient trading post of Ouadane, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and then witness the awe-inspiring Richat Structure. This geological marvel, known as the Eye of the Sahara, is a defining moment of this Adrar Expedition.
- Dunes & Ancient Libraries: Feel the thrill of a 4×4 drive through the golden dunes of the Oasis of Tanouchert. Then, explore the historic city of Chinguetti, a UNESCO site revered for its ancient manuscripts and historic mosque.
- Desert Oases: Recharge at the serene Mhairith Oasis and the lush, palm-filled canyon of Terjit, where a natural spring offers a refreshing swim in the heart of the desert.
This Expedition masterfully combines rugged adventure with profound cultural and natural discovery. Join us for an unforgettable journey across one of the planet’s most stunning landscapes.
Adrar Tour – Discover the Heart of Mauritania
Itinerary
08:00 Hours: Commencement of services with a punctual pickup from your designated hotel in Nouakchott.
08:15 - 14:15 Hours: Road transfer to the city of Atar. The journey covers a distance of 440 kilometers and is estimated to take approximately six (6) hours, accounting for standard road conditions.
14:15 - 15:30 Hours: Arrival in Atar. Proceedings will include check-in at your pre-arranged hotel, followed by a luncheon interval.
15:30 - 17:00 Hours: A guided cultural excursion within Atar. The tour will encompass the central city area, with visits to the vibrant local markets and the historic central mosque.
17:00 - 18:30 Hours: Departure for the archaeological site of Azougi. This segment involves a visit to the ruins of this historically significant settlement, a crucial nexus on the trans-Saharan trade routes.
Evening: The remainder of the evening is at your leisure. Dinner and overnight accommodation are secured at your hotel in Atar, concluding the day's scheduled activities.
08:00 Hours: Commencement of services with a pickup from your hotel in Atar, following breakfast.
08:15 - 11:15 Hours: unpaved road transfer to Ouadane. The journey covers a distance of 200 kilometers and is estimated to take approximately three (3) hours.
En Route (approx. 10:00 - 10:45): A scheduled stop to visit and marvel at the ancient rock paintings of Amogjar.
11:30 - 13:00 Hours: Discovery of the stunning Richat Structure. This geological marvel is located approximately 40 kilometers east of Ouadane and will be visited from a designated viewpoint.
13:00 - 14:00 Hours: Luncheon interval in Ouadane.
14:00 - 16:00 Hours: Guided exploration of the historic Ouadane old town. This includes a visit to the ancient mosque and a walk through the lanes of traditional stone houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Evening: The remainder of the evening is at your leisure. Overnight accommodation and dinner are secured at your hotel in Ouadane, concluding the day's scheduled activities.
08:00 Hours: Commencement of services with pickup from your hotel.
08:15 - 11:15 Hours: Scenic desert transfer to Chinguetti.
- En Route Stop (~09:15): A scheduled pause for approximately 30-45 minutes at the Oasis de Tanouchert. This provides an opportunity to experience the palm grove and capture photographs of the distinctive desert landscape.
11:30 - 13:00 Hours: Guided cultural exploration of historic Chinguetti, including its ancient mosque and renowned private libraries with their collections of rare manuscripts.
13:00 - 14:00 Hours: Luncheon interval in Chinguetti.
17h00s Hours: Leisure time at the desert dunes adjacent to the city for relaxation.
Evening: Overnight accommodation at your hotel in Chinguetti
08:00 Hours: Pickup from your hotel in Chinguetti.
08:15 - 17:00 Hours: Extended scenic drive to Nouakchott. The total journey covers approximately 510 kilometers.
- En Route Stop 1 (~09:30): A scheduled pause at the picturesque Mherith Oasis, located approximately 80 kilometers from Chinguetti. Time will be allocated to appreciate the serene palm grove and capture photographs.
- En Route Stop 2 (~10:30): Continuation of the journey for approximately 20 kilometers to Terjit Oasis.
- 12:00 - 13:30: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Terjit Oasis, a renowned verdant canyon and popular resting point.
- 13:30 - 17:00: Resumption and conclusion of the return journey to Nouakchott.
17:00 Hours (Approx.): Arrival in Nouakchott and transfer to your designated hotel or the airport, marking the conclusion of services.