Mauritania Tour — Crazy Puffin Adventures

Overview

The adventure

One of the most extraordinary adventures on the African continent.

Hitch-hike the legendary Iron Ore Train through the Sahara

Camp under the stars in the vast Mauritanian desert

Explore Chinguetti & Ouadane — UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Swim in the Terjit Oasis hidden in the dunes

Maximum 11 travellers — guaranteed departure

Go Crazy, Go Private

Choose your
own dates.
Your own adventure.

Can't make the departure? We'll build it entirely around you — your dates, your crew, your pace.

Your dates Solo or group Custom itinerary

Go private → Free 15-min call

What you'll see

Tour highlights

Iron Ore Train

Hitch-hike one of the world's longest trains — 3km of iron ore wagons cutting through the Sahara.

Azoueiga Sand Dunes

The highest sand dunes in Mauritania — endless golden seas of sand stretching to the horizon.

Terjit Oasis

A hidden paradise in the desert — lush palms, crystal water, and absolute silence.

4x4 Off-Road Drive

Thrilling off-road drives through remote desert tracks, dunes, and ancient wadis.

Chinguetti & Ouadane

Two ancient UNESCO World Heritage cities — medieval libraries, mosques, and desert architecture.

Eye of the Sahara

A mysterious 50km geological crater visible from space — one of Earth's most bizarre natural wonders.

Day by day

Itinerary

Arrival in Nouakchott

Overnight: Hotel in Nouakchott

Arrive at Nouakchott Airport and be met by our local crew. Transfer to your hotel for some rest. Later, enjoy a short excursion around the city to experience the atmosphere and local vibe of Mauritania.

Nouakchott → Azoueiga

Overnight: Wild camping in Azoueiga

Experience real off-road driving as you navigate through the vast Mauritanian desert. Stop for a traditional local lunch amidst the stunning sand dunes. Continue to Azoueiga — the country's highest sand dune — and take in breathtaking views.

Azoueiga → White Valley → Terjit Oasis

Overnight: Camping in Terjit

Another thrilling off-road adventure through the Sahara, taking in panoramic desert views. Explore remote villages and hidden oases along the way. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the serene Terjit Oasis before settling in for the night.

Terjit → Eye of Sahara → Chinguetti

Overnight: Guesthouse in Chinguetti

Explore the ancient UNESCO city of Chinguetti. Experience Bedouin hospitality over tea in the desert. Off-road adventure and lunch at an oasis, followed by a visit to the awe-inspiring Eye of the Sahara geological crater.

Chinguetti → Ouadane

Overnight: Hotel in Ouadane

Visit Fort Sagane and discover ancient cave paintings. Play in the vast golden sand dunes and try sandboarding. End your day with local music and dancing around a campfire under the starry desert sky.

Ouadane → Rock Paintings → Iron Ore Train

Overnight: Onboard the Iron Ore Train

Drive to Choum and prepare for an unforgettable journey aboard the legendary Iron Ore Train. Board the train in Zouérat and embark on an epic overnight ride across the vast Saharan landscape — a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Arrival in Nouadhibou

Overnight: Hotel in Nouadhibou

Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise as the train cuts through the endless Sahara. After the long and dusty journey, enjoy a well-deserved shower and explore the coastal city of Nouadhibou.

Nouadhibou → Nouakchott → Departure

End of tour

Drive back to Nouakchott. Visit the famous fish market and local handicraft centre. Short rest at the hotel, dinner, and airport transfer. End of an extraordinary Saharan adventure.

Did you know?

The Iron Ore Train in Mauritania is one of the longest trains in the world — stretching up to 3 kilometres — and carries both iron ore and adventurous travellers through the heart of the Sahara.

Choum to Nouadhibou, Mauritania · One of the world's great train journeys

Pricing details

What's included

Everything included

E-visa guidance and support

We provide all documents needed

Airport pick-up and drop-off

Pick-up & drop-off included

All meals on the trip

Apart from in Nouakchott

All transportation

All in-country travel

All accommodation

Hotels, guesthouses & camping

Tents and camping equipment

All gear provided for desert nights

Entrance fee

Every site & attraction

English-speaking local guide & crew

Experienced local guides

Not included

International flights to and from Nouakchott

Flights from your home country

Personal expenses

Shopping, souvenirs, extras

Tips for local guides

Greatly appreciated by your local crew

Travel insurance

Required — high-risk travel insurance cover recommended

Snacks during the train ride

Bring your own food & drinks

Goggles and blanket for the train ride

Strongly recommended

Got questions?

FAQ

Is it safe to travel to Mauritania?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to Mauritania. It is currently a very peaceful country, and our local team is very experienced and knows every corner of the country.

How does the booking process work?

Your spot will be secured as soon as we receive your deposit payment. This deposit is refundable up to 7 days after your booking. To know more about our booking policy, please check our Terms & Conditions.

What about the visa?

You must obtain an e-Visa approval in advance. We will provide you with all the necessary documents and guidance at the appropriate time to make the process easy.

What is the group size?

This tour has a guaranteed departure — it runs regardless of numbers. Maximum 11 travellers plus crew to keep the experience intimate and authentic.

Is it safe to ride the Iron Ore Train?

The train is operating and we offer this as the highlight of the trip. We work with the best local crew to ensure your safety. If you prefer not to take part, we can arrange a private car transfer instead.

Should I bring cash?

Yes — bring USD or EUR. ATMs are only available in big cities and credit cards aren't accepted anywhere outside major hotels, so carry cash for personal expenses.

Can I come as a solo traveller?

Absolutely — you'll be paired with another solo traveller to share a room. Or pay the $260 single supplement for your own room throughout the trip.

What should I bring for the train ride?

After your booking is confirmed, our team will provide you with the "Pack Your Bag" guide, including all essential information on what to bring for the trip and the iron ore ride.