For most countries, the answer to this type of question often depends on who asks it. Indeed, some prefer culture to nature or encounters with old stones. Nevertheless, why trekking in Mauritania has a more definitive answer: for the Sahara Desert! If many countries share the latter, It conveys here the tradition of nomads (blue men). However, there is more to look at. Indeed, it is a country of trade, multi-ethical, which gives it an undeniable cultural richness. But let’s start with a short video made by the french website hors frontieres.
Walking in the Sahara Desert
It is without doubt one of the most mythical deserts in the world. It is also the largest with its 8.5 million km2, it also crosses Africa from East to West. Thus, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad, Sudan, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Libya, and Egypt, as well as in the disputed territory of Western Sahara shares its aridity. It is therefore easy to organize stays there which will be an opportunity to taste the great outdoors accompanied by camels. The dunes as far as the eye can see under a starry sky will give you a taste of freedom.
Hiking through the canyons of Mauritanian Adrar
The Adrar is a large central region of the country consisting of a desert plateau. It borders the Western Sahara and has reliefs worthy of the Great American Canyon, such as the black sandstone ones of Agrawa above. In fact, it is the favorite destination for trekkers in Mauritania. Combining mountain and desert in the same journey is not given to all!
The nomadic culture
Ancient Civilizations
Traces of the past are well present in the country. For example, you will have the opportunity to admire the ruins of ancient caravan cities such as Chinguetti or Ouadane. The latter also has a ksar (fortified village) classified as a world heritage of humanity by UNESCO.
Current traditions
The nomadic culture, still alive but rarer, comes from the itinerant life of blue men. With her songs and other rituals, such as sharing tea, she will immerse you in an elsewhere of a thousand and one night. What could be better than living a tale in the “country of a thousand poets”.
Convinced of why trekking in Mauritania? In this case, you can contact our local partner. Don’t forget to check your visas, vaccines and other… You can check out our list to remember nothing!
