Discover Chinguetti: Mauritania’s UNESCO World Heritage Treasure. Join us on an unforgettable Chinguetti tour, exploring one of Mauritania’s most iconic and historically significant cities. Founded in the 13th century, Chinguetti was a vital hub for trans-Saharan trade and Islamic scholarship. Known as the “seventh holy city of Islam,” it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving centuries of culture, knowledge, and stunning desert landscapes.
What You’ll Experience:
The Friday Mosque stands as a national symbol of Mauritania. Its square minaret topped with five ostrich eggs is recognized throughout the country. This mosque is among the oldest in continuous use worldwide, offering a direct connection to the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage.
Ancient Manuscript Libraries hold invaluable Islamic texts on subjects such as law, astronomy, and medicine. These manuscripts reflect Chinguetti’s role as a West African center of learning and intellectual preservation.
Explore the Old Town’s unique architecture, where traditional mud-brick buildings with finely carved wooden doors showcase the city’s enduring craftsmanship and history. Walking through these historic streets feels like stepping back in time.
The surrounding Saharan sand dunes offer breathtaking views and spectacular sunsets. These golden dunes frame the city and provide perfect opportunities for photography and desert exploration.
Extend your adventure to nearby natural and historical sites, including:
- Agrour Amogjar Rock Paintings, ancient engravings showing giraffes and cattle from a greener era.
- The lush Mheirith Oasis, famous for its abundant palm trees and peaceful atmosphere.
- Terjit Oasis, a refreshing desert stop with natural springs, ideal for relaxing and enjoying traditional Mauritanian tea.
Why Choose Our Chinguetti Tour?
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture seeker, or desert adventurer, Chinguetti offers a deeply rewarding experience. This tour immerses you in Mauritania’s rich heritage through its ancient mosques, libraries, and desert landscapes. You can choose between camel treks across the dunes, 4×4 excursions, or multi-day explorations to nearby historic towns like Ouadane.
Every tour is customized to your preferences, guided by knowledgeable locals who bring the city’s stories to life. Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual significance of Chinguetti — a must-visit destination on your Mauritania journey.
Book your Chinguetti tour today and experience the heart of Mauritania’s cultural and historic legacy.
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Chinguetti Tour Itinerary
7:30 AM: Depart from Nouakchott.
10:30 AM: Stop in Akjoujet for a 15-minute tea break.
10:45 AM: Continue the drive to Atar.
12:56 PM: Arrive in Atar for a quick stop and lunch.
2:07 PM: Depart from Atar to Chinguetti.
3:30 PM: Arrive in Chinguetti and check into the hotel for a one-hour rest after the drive.
4:30 PM: Visit one of the ancient libraries and the old mosque.
5:30 PM: Head to the sand dunes for sunset and enjoy the stunning view.
7:00 PM: Return to the hotel for dinner and rest.
Driving Distances:
- Nouakchott to Akjoujet: 259 km (3h 19m)
- Akjoujet to Atar: 180 km (2h 11m)
- Atar to Chinguetti: 85.8 km (1h 23m)
- 8:00 AM: After breakfast, depart from Chinguetti.
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Amougjar rock paintings (45 km, 1 hour on unpaved road).
- 10:00 AM: Continue the drive to Mheirith (40 km, 1 hour on unpaved road).
- 11:00 AM: Depart for Terjit (20 km, 30 minutes on unpaved road).
- 12:00 PM: Arrive at Terjit for a short break and pictures.
- 1:00 PM: Continue the drive back to Nouakchott (417 km, 5 hours 5 minutes on paved roads).
- 6:00 PM: Arrive back in Nouakchott.
Driving Distances:
- Chinguetti to Amougjar: 45 km (1h on unpaved road)
- Amougjar to Mheirith: 40 km (1h on unpaved road)
- Mheirith to Terjit: 20 km (30m on unpaved road)
- Terjit to Nouakchott: 417 km (5h 5m on paved roads)