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Chinguetti

Mauritania, Africa

Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its stunning ancient architecture and as a historical center of Islamic scholarship. Surrounded by mesmerizing sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, it showcases well-preserved medieval libraries, traditional mud-brick houses, and the incredible beauty of the desert landscape. Visitors can explore the vibrant local culture, hunt for ancient manuscripts, and enjoy camel trekking, making it a unique destination for those seeking adventure and history.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Atar

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

7 Best Things to Do in Chinguetti

1. Explore the Ancient Libraries

Visit the historic libraries housing ancient manuscripts.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

1 hr

2. Visit the Great Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture of this ancient mosque.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

3. Sand Dune Trekking

Experience the majestic Sahara on a guided trek.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

3 hrs

4. Visit the Old Town

Wander through the ancient streets and mud-brick houses.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

5. Attend a Local Festival

Immerse yourself in vibrant local culture and traditions.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Visit the Museum of Chinguetti

Learn about the history and culture of Chinguetti.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Camel Rides

Enjoy a traditional mode of transport through the desert.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~12-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-12 (#174 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Ouguiya

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Thieboudienne (Cheb-u-jin)

Fish and rice with vegetables (National dish)

Couscous

VE

Steamed semolina with vegetables

Méchoui

Roasted whole lamb or sheep

Mafé

VE

Peanut stew with meat or vegetables

Cherchem

Spicy meat and vegetable stew

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)