Imagine embarking on one of the most thrilling travel experiences in the world – riding the Iron Ore Mauritania Train across the Sahara Desert. This isn’t your typical tourist attraction; it’s a hardcore adventure that’s not for the faint-hearted. I’ve done this journey seven times, more than any other foreigner, and I’m here to convince you to give it a shot.
Mauritania, one of the least visited countries in Africa, is home to this extraordinary journey. The train, stretching 2.5km long, carries iron ore 700km through the Sahara. It’s cold, uncomfortable, and technically illegal, but if you’re up for an adventure, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
The train’s primary purpose is to transport iron ore from the mines deep in the Sahara to the Mauritanian coastal town of Nouadhibou. After unloading, it returns empty to the mining area around Zouerat, 700km from the coast. Locals know the train’s schedule and often hitch a ride for free, hopping on and off as they please. You can do the same, but be prepared for a rough ride.
The journey starts in the town of Choum, where you’ll board the train filled with iron ore. You’ll then travel through the night, arriving in Nouadhibou the next day. The train is often late, but don’t wander too far from the tracks. Once it arrives, you’ll have to act quickly to secure your spot.
The experience of riding the Iron Ore Train is unforgettable. You’ll be covered in iron ore dust, sleep under the stars, and wake up to the vastness of the Sahara. It’s a challenging journey, but the thrill of adventure and the stunning landscapes make it all worthwhile.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embark on this adventure:
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Choose your route: Decide whether you want to take the 14-hour train from Choum to Nouadhibou or the full 20-hour journey to Zouerat. I recommend the shorter route for a more comfortable experience.
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Get to Nouakchott or Nouadhibou: Depending on your chosen route, you’ll need to get to either Nouakchott or Nouadhibou. Both cities have airports and offer visa on arrival for most nationalities.
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Get to Atar: From Nouakchott, take a shared minibus to Atar. Spend a night there and explore the local attractions before heading to Choum.
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Get to Choum: From Atar, take a shared taxi to Choum. Wait by the train tracks from 2pm, and the train should arrive within the next 12 hours.
Remember, this journey isn’t for everyone. It’s cold, dirty, and uncomfortable. But if you’re an adventurer at heart, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. So, are you ready for the most hardcore train journey in the world?
