8 Day Luxury Tour

Begin the drive to the Mauritanian border at Guerguerat; after border formalities, meet your local guide and continue the drive to Nouadhibou. Have lunch at a local restaurant and then transfer to hotel Dolphin or similar for check-in, free afternoon at leisure, dinner, & overnight. (B,L,D) 

After breakfast, head to visit the Nouadhibou’s spectacular “Golf du levrier” Market and purchase some local currency before heading out on a Saharan adventure. Begin the drive south towards Iwik Village, located in Banc d’Arguin National Park, a nature reserve home to many migratory and breeding birds, including flamingos, terns, herons, and pelicans. The waters here are some of the best fishing spots in western Africa, attracting millions of birds. In addition, the intertidal flats contain the most pristine seagrass beds in the world, where motorboats are not allowed, and only a local indigenous Imraguen tribe that lives here can fish using primitive methods. The waters here are home to endangered mammals such as monk seals, dolphins, and whales. Transfer to a fixed camp for dinner, and overnight.

(B,L,D)  

Note: The basic fixed camp(Iwik camp) has wooden chalets equipped with beds, toilet & wash facilities. 

Begin venturing deep into the Sahara on a long drive towards Atar, through the heart of the Inchiri region. Stop at the small towns of Benichab and Akjoujt, the capital of the Inchiri region. Akjoujt is known for its gold and copper mining industry, with archaeological mining finds dating back to as early as 1,000 BC! Continue the drive to Atar, the capital of the Adrar region, and discover nomadic camps along the way. In Atar, the friendly faces of the locals and the markets worth exploring will warmly welcome us. There is a historic mosque here as well. Transfer to Sahara Hotel for check-in, dinner, & overnight. (B,L,D) 

Begin the day with a drive through the striking landscape of the Adrar Massif, venturing toward the Dunes of Azouega, where the golden sands create an otherworldly panorama. Continue to the Tivoujar Pass, a dramatic route carved through rugged terrain that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. From there, journey through the White Valley, a serene expanse of pale rock formations and sand that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant blue skies. Arrive in Atar, a bustling regional hub nestled amidst the desert’s rugged beauty. Explore the local markets or take a moment to appreciate the unique character of this historic town. Transfer to Etoile du Nord Hotel for check-in, dinner, and overnight. (B,L,D)  

Begin the day in Atar, the gateway to the Adrar region, and set off toward Azougui, once the capital of the Almoravid dynasty and used to be home to ancient ruins surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes. Then Continue to the Amogjar Canyon, where striking rock formations frame caves containing Neolithic paintings discovered by French naturalist Théodore Monod. These artworks depict a time when the Sahara was lush with grasslands, teeming with wildlife such as giraffes and antelope.

After exploring the canyon, journey onward to Ouadane, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mauritania's most historic trading towns. Known for its labyrinthine streets and stone houses, Ouadane was a vital stop on the trans-Saharan trade routes. Transfer to Auberge Agoueidir or similar for check-in, dinner, and overnight. (B,L,D) 

Begin the day with a drive to Guelb Errichat's "Africa's Eye," an impressive crater from the sky that looks like a blue eye. There are many theories about how this amazing geological wonder was formed. Originally thought to have been created by an asteroid, and later, there were some arguments that a volcanic eruption created it. Now, it is said that it may have been caused by uplifted rock sculpted by years of erosion. Continue your journey through the stark and stunning landscapes of the Adrar region, arriving in Chinguetti, the ancient Berber city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the "seventh holy city of Islam," Chinguetti is a treasure trove of history, with its ancient manuscripts, iconic mosque, and timeless architecture, upon arrival, transfer to Auberge Eden or similar for checkin, dinner, and overnight. (B,L,D)

Begin the day with a drive from Chinguetti, heading toward the enchanting Emheirith Oasis, a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes. Take in the tranquility of this lush haven, where palms and water create a stark yet beautiful contrast against the arid surroundings. Continue to the Terjit Oasis, one of Mauritania’s most iconic spots. Nestled in a canyon, this oasis offers shade, cool springs, and a peaceful retreat beneath towering palm trees. It’s a perfect place to relax, enjoy a traditional tea, and experience the timeless rhythm of life in the desert. Arrive in Atar, the bustling hub of the Adrar region, where the lively markets and historic charm of this desert town await. Transfer to Etoile du Nord Hotel or similar check-in, dinner, and overnight. (B,L,D) 

After breakfast, begin the drive back to Nouakchott and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood while watching the local fisherman as they come and go in their colorful pirogues - long, narrow canoes dug out from trees and painted in bright colors. Head to visit the National Museum, with its notable archaeological & ethnographical collections, including arrowheads, ancient pottery fragments, and traditional costumes of Mauritania. Stroll through the traditional gold and handcraft market, then transfer to Sun Set Hotel or similar for check-in, rest, and head for a light dinner, then transfer to the airport for your flight back to the US. (B,L)