But those on the far shore were actually across the border in Mauritania, a huge desert country I knew little about at the time. Travel newsletter Your weekly round-up of the best travel inspiration, guides, hotel reviews and advice from our experts. Four times the size of the UK and approaching 90 per cent pure desert, Mauritania straddles the transition zone between north and west Africa. It was then I understood that Mauritania was no longer a mystery, but a destination finally ready for its debut. Finally, ride the world-famous Iron Ore Train for an overnight journey to the Atlantic.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 27, 2026 15:31 UTC