GIRMauritania
L'Erg Warane et Chinguetti, variations dans les sables
Erg Warane arrivée Nouakchott 9 jours
9 days / 8 nights
4-12 people
Moderate
Détours Mauritanie
Trip Overview
This exceptional camel trek offers your clients an authentic immersion in the heart of Saharan Mauritania, combining traditional dromedary expedition with heritage discovery. The adventure begins at the edges of Erg Warane, a breathtaking dune massif characterized by magnificent and intricate sand formations creating a labyrinth of golden dunes. Through progressive camel stages, travelers will cross these ever-changing landscapes to reach the first verdant oases, before discovering the moving city of Chinguetti. This ancient holy city of Islam, nestled in its golden sand setting, has preserved all its historical authenticity. For centuries, it served as a strategic convergence point for pilgrim caravans heading east toward the Holy Places. This camel expedition offers a complete crossing of dune massifs, lush palm groves, and this millennial city, guaranteeing total immersion in the nomadic universe and discovery of exceptional Saharan landscapes. A unique product allowing your clients to experience the authenticity of the Mauritanian desert off the beaten path.
Trip Highlights
- Authentic camel trekking in the spectacular dunes of Erg Warane
- Discovery of Chinguetti, ancient holy city listed as World Heritage
- Complete immersion in traditional Moorish nomadic culture
- Exceptional Saharan bivouacs under the starlit desert sky
- Exploration of verdant palm groves and oasis gardens
- Crossing of the Zarga sandstone mega-ridge with unique geological formations
- Privileged encounters with local nomadic tribes
- Ascent of Tichilit el Âteg and its majestic overlying dune
Day-by-Day Itinerary
J1Arrival in Nouakchott - International transit
Arrival in Nouakchott - International transit
Welcome at Nouakchott international airport after international flight via Casablanca. Transfer and check-in at downtown hotel for recovery night before desert departure.
Free meals
J2Journey to Adrar plateau - First Saharan steps
Journey to Adrar plateau - First Saharan steps
Morning departure by road to Atar via Akjoujt, crossing changing Mauritanian landscapes. 4x4 transfer to Afam el Mezrougat site, gateway to Erg Warane. Meeting and briefing with traditional Moorish camel team. Setup of first authentic Saharan bivouac.
Free meals
J3Walking exploration of Afam el Mezrougat dunes
Walking exploration of Afam el Mezrougat dunes
First day walking in the remarkable Afam el Mezrougat dune massif, introduction to dune landscapes. Discovery of Oued Chinguetti with its tree vegetation contrasting with surrounding aridity. Exploration of imposing Erg Warane dunes, spectacular geological formation.
Free meals
J4Crossing the Aklés toward millennial Chinguetti
Crossing the Aklés toward millennial Chinguetti
Camel progression through dune formations called Aklés toward the ancient holy city of Chinguetti. Arrival in this historical World Heritage city. In-depth guided visit of the old town with traditional architecture, ancient libraries preserving precious manuscripts, and exploration of verdant palm groves at day's end.
Free meals
J5In the heart of Erg Warane's M'Ghalig
In the heart of Erg Warane's M'Ghalig
Southwest direction through parallel sand massifs characteristic of M'Ghalig. Refreshing stop at La Gueïla, charming small oasis palm grove offering striking contrast. Night bivouac setup on imposing sand massif offering exceptional panorama over surrounding erg.
Free meals
J6Transition to Zarga Tassilian sandstones
Transition to Zarga Tassilian sandstones
Imposing Erg Warane massifs gradually lead toward characteristic black ridges of Zarga. Passage through Tinouarderit site and fascinating discovery of barchan formations, crescent dunes marking the end point of Erg Warane's natural progression.
Free meals
J7Exploration of Zarga sandstone mega-ridge
Exploration of Zarga sandstone mega-ridge
Day of in-depth walking exploration in the extraordinary Zarga sandstone massif, ancient glacial river bed with unique geological formations. Discovery of sandstones with natural corridors, observation of prehistoric rock paintings witness to ancient civilizations, and study of particular vegetation adapted to this specific environment.
Free meals
J8Climax at Tichilit el Âteg and return to Atar
Climax at Tichilit el Âteg and return to Atar
Morning ascent to exceptional site of Tichilit el Âteg and its superb overlying dune, geological summit offering 360° panorama over surrounding desert. Progressive return to Atar then discovery route to Azougui, ancient historical capital of Almoravid Empire, archaeological site of major importance.
Free meals
J9Return to Nouakchott and return flight
Return to Nouakchott and return flight
Morning return route to Nouakchott through contrasted Amsaga landscapes and vast Inchiri plains, discovery of different Mauritanian ecosystems. Transfer to international airport for departure formalities and direct return flight to Paris.
Free meals
Price includes
- Accommodation in selected traditional guesthouses and local inns
- Authentic Saharan bivouacs with all camping equipment provided
- Full board: all meals from day 2 breakfast to day 8 dinner
- Professional Moorish camel team and trained dromedaries
- Specialized French-speaking local guide
- Ground transport in 4x4 all-terrain vehicles with experienced drivers
- Ground mattresses, individual tents if needed for weather conditions
- Bivouac cooking equipment and water containers for drinking water reserve
- Airport transfers in Nouakchott round trip
Price excludes
- Round-trip international flights from Europe
- Personal sleeping bag (rental possible locally)
- Personal trekking equipment and desert-appropriate clothing
- Travel, repatriation and cancellation insurance
- Tips for local team (guides, camel drivers, drivers)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Meals in Nouakchott on days 1 and 9
Practical Information
Physical condition
Best season
Group size
4 to 12 participants
