Hiking in Mauritania
Including Adrar Plateau Canyons, Banc d'Arguin National Park, and Tagant Plateau. On the map.
The vibe
Walking here means following ancient trade routes across vast, wind-carved sandstone plateaus where the scale of the desert dwarfs everything else. The cooler months between November and February offer the only window for sustained trekking before the searing heat shuts down the interior. You will move entirely off-grid, relying on local nomadic guides rather than marked trails or park infrastructure.
guide arrangement required for remote zones
Adrar Plateau Canyons
Adrar
Adrar Plateau — Wikidata / Wikimedia Commons
The Adrar region features dramatic sandstone canyons, ancient oases, and hidden gueltas that provide spectacular desert trekking. Hikers can explore the rugged terrain around Chinguetti and Ouadane, where the stark beauty of the Sahara is punctuated by deep gorges and rocky outcrops.
Access. Best accessed from the town of Atar, which serves as the gateway to the Adrar region; hiring a local guide and 4x4 transport is essential for reaching remote canyon trailheads.
Notes. Extreme heat is a major hazard; trekking should only be attempted with professional local guides and sufficient water supplies.
Banc d'Arguin National Park
Mauritania
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers unique coastal walking experiences across vast tidal flats and sand dunes where the Sahara meets the Atlantic. It is a world-class destination for birdwatchers and those seeking remote, tranquil coastal treks along the shoreline.
Access. Accessible via 4x4 vehicles from Nouakchott or Nouadhibou, usually requiring a local guide or tour operator to navigate the protected park zones.
Notes. Best visited during the cooler months from November to March; ensure you have a registered guide for park entry.
Tagant Plateau
Tagant
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
The Tagant Plateau offers a rugged landscape of cliffs and seasonal water pools known as gueltas, providing a challenging environment for experienced trekkers. The area is known for its dramatic geological formations and the opportunity to experience the remote, traditional life of the Mauritanian interior.
Access. Access is primarily via Tichitt or Tidjikja; travel requires a well-equipped 4x4 and a knowledgeable local guide due to the lack of marked trails and harsh desert conditions.
Notes. Remote area with limited infrastructure; self-sufficiency and experienced desert guides are mandatory.