Mauritania
The Adrar Desert and the Land of a Million Poets
Hunak Journeys move through vast desert landscapes, ancient caravan cities and oasis settlements across Mauritania’s Adrar region.
We carefully design small-group desert expeditions combining moderate walks and hikes, 4x4 travel and nights under canvas.
Bab al Sahara
October 11 - 18th 2026
1680€ - 8 days
Quiet Sahara 1
November 8 - 15th 2026
Quite Sahara 2
November 22 - 29th 2026
New Year's Tour
December 27th - January 3rd
1710€ - 8 days
6 Spots Available
If you are not available on any of these dates or want to design your own private expedition, you can contact us to customise your experience.
6 Spots Available
1680€ - 8 days
6 Spots Available
2026 into 2027
6 Spots Available
Upcoming Mauritania Group Expeditions
Hunak’s first Mauritania group expeditions run between October and December, during the most suitable desert season. Each departure share the same itinerary and is limited to a small group of participants.
*(minimum 2 people per departure, please refer to our Booking Conditions for more info)
1680€ - 8 days
Group Expedition Overview


Caravan Cities & Desert
Landscapes
We start through historic towns such as Ouadane and Chinguetti before entering deeper desert environments of dunes, rocky plateaus, mountain passes and oasis valleys.
Expeditions begin in Nouakchott before travelling north into the Adrar region, where paved roads gradually give way to desert tracks, oasis settlements and ancient caravan cities.
Movement Through the Desert
Our days in the desert combine moderate walking, hiking, and 4x4 crossings. We move through the landscape during the cooler hours, with evenings around camp after sunset.
Comfort & Expedition Rhythm
Expeditions balance nights in desert camps with stays in carefully selected local guesthouses and auberges. Walks are accessible and non-technical, though participants should feel comfortable spending several consecutive days in desert conditions.
*Detailed itineraries are shared with confirmed participants prior to departure.
Design your Expeditions
For travellers seeking different dates, longer crossings or a more personalised expedition rhythm, Hunak also organises private desert journeys across the Adrar region.
Flexible Timing & Expedition Pace
Private expeditions can follow the same framework as our group journeys while allowing greater flexibility in duration, pace and travel dates.
Extended Exploration
Depending on the season and expedition objectives, journeys may include additional desert regions and geological sites such as Ben Amira, the Richat Structure, remote salt mines and extended crossings through the Adrar.
Field Expertise & Local Operations
All private expeditions maintain Hunak’s operational philosophy: movement through the landscape, small expedition teams, vetted local partners and carefully structured desert logistics.
Access and Visa Requirements
Mauritania is accessible via international connections through Casablanca, with regular flights from major European cities. Alternative routes may include connections via Istanbul or other regional hubs. A tourist visa is typically issued on arrival at Nouakchott airport (approx. USD 50–60, subject to change).
Key Practical Information
Physical Level
Expeditions involve moderate daily walking combined with 4x4 transfers. The rhythm is carefully balanced to allow progression through the landscape without technical difficulty. No previous trekking experience is required, but participants should be comfortable walking and camping in the desert.
Safety Info
The Adrar region is a well-established travel area within Mauritania, regularly visited by international travellers. Expeditions are operated with experienced local partners and structured logistics to ensure a safe and well-managed journey throughout.
Best Season to Visit
The ideal season is from October to March, when daytime temperatures are generally mild (around 22–30°C) and nights cooler.
Small Group Policy
For all its journeys and private experiences, Hunak maintains a small-group approach to preserve the quality and rhythm of the expedition. Group departures in Mauritania are limited to a maximum of 7 participants.
Required Camping Gear
During desert crossings, travellers sleep in traditional Mauritanian tents (khaimas), spacious Bedouin-style shelters typically shared by small groups. Individual tents and mattresses can also be arranged upon request. Participants are required to bring their own sleeping bag suitable for cool desert nights. A detailed packing and equipment list is shared with confirmed participants prior to departure.
International Flights
Flights to and from Nouakchott.
What is Included
Accommodation
Carefully selected guesthouses, auberges and desert camps throughout the expedition.
Not Included
Local Team & Guides
Experienced local expedition staff, including French-speaking guides and English-speaking support.
Meals & Transport
All your meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and transport from arrival to departure.
Activities
All activities and visits included within the expedition programme.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants.
Visa
Tourist visa issued on arrival at Nouakchott airport (USD 55)
Personal Expenses & Tips
Personal purchases, optional tips and other individual expenses. Tips for drivers and camp staff are appreciated according to local customs but remain entirely at the traveller’s discretion.
Frequently asked questions
What does Hunak mean?
Hunak in Arabic means "there" or "over there". It is our invitation for you to step outside and join us in those places that feel remote.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining a Hunak expedition in Mauritania. Policies should include medical coverage, trip cancellation and emergency assistance.
Several international providers offer suitable coverage, with average costs generally ranging between EUR 30–40 per person for the duration of a standard group expedition. Hunak can provide guidance to participants during the reservation process.
Is Mauritania safe for travellers?
Mauritania is a vast country, approximately twice the size of France. While some remote border areas in the far south-east remain affected by instability in neighbouring Mali, the Adrar region in the north-west is widely regarded as one of the country’s most established and regularly visited travel areas.
The Adrar has welcomed international travellers for decades and tourism in the region continues to grow steadily. Prior to departure, confirmed participants receive a detailed expedition briefing covering local customs, practical guidance, safety considerations and emergency procedures.
Is it a problem if I have dietary requirements?
Not at all! We can cater for all diets.



