Attractions of Mauritania

To help inspire or plan your trip to Mauritania, some of its major attractions for travellers are shown below, including some of the best natural, historical, cultural and adventure sites in the country. These include all of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for Mauritania which represent the best of the world's cultural and natural heritage.
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Natural	History	Wildlife	Trekking	Cities	Religious Monument	Boat Journey	Rail Journey	Diving	Cultural	Adrenaline	UNESCO WHS

Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata
The four ksour of the Mauritanian Sahara - Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata, were founded in the 11th and 12th centuries to serve the caravans of the Trans-Saharan trade routes. Caravans, with tens of thousands of camels, travelling between North Africa and the Gold Coast were taxed on their cargo including gold, salt, wool, gunpowder, dates, ivory, animal hides and slaves. The stone architecture and urban plan of the ksour were suited to the harsh desert environment. Although they are quite inaccessible, they are still of great cultural importance, illustrating the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the people of the western Sahara. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata

Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata

The four ksour of the Mauritanian Sahara - Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata, were founded in the 11th and 12th centuries to serve the caravans of the Trans-Saharan trade routes. Caravans, with tens of thousands of camels, travelling between North Africa and the Gold Coast were taxed on their cargo including gold, salt, wool, gunpowder, dates, ivory, animal hides and slaves. The stone architecture and urban plan of the ksour were suited to the harsh desert environment. Although they are quite inaccessible, they are still of great cultural importance, illustrating the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the people of the western Sahara.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata

Banc d'Arguin National Park
Banc d'Arguin National Park is located on the Atlantic desert coast of Mauritania. This transition zone between the Sahara and the Atlantic comprises sand-dunes, coastal swamps, mudflats, small islands and shallow coastal waters. The shallow water and its vegetation is home to large fish populations which attract a wide variety of migrating birds. Wild dolphins have evolved a unique symbiotic collaboration with local fishermen to attract shoals of fish. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Banc d'Arguin National Park

Banc d'Arguin National Park

Banc d'Arguin National Park is located on the Atlantic desert coast of Mauritania. This transition zone between the Sahara and the Atlantic comprises sand-dunes, coastal swamps, mudflats, small islands and shallow coastal waters. The shallow water and its vegetation is home to large fish populations which attract a wide variety of migrating birds. Wild dolphins have evolved a unique symbiotic collaboration with local fishermen to attract shoals of fish.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Banc d'Arguin National Park

Nouakchott
Nouakchott is the capital of Mauritania and the largest city in the Sahara. Located on the coast, there are numerous beaches to enjoy or watch the local fishermen. In town, Nouakchott has some excellent markets with various Saharan souvenirs.

Terjit Oasis
Terjit Oasis is a picture perfect oasis located in the Sahara Desert of southern Mauritania. Surrounded by mountains, it comprises crystal clear waters, palmeries and a small village. This is a perfect spot to take a camel trek into the surrounding desert, experience the desert sunset and sleep under the stars in Bedouin tents.