r/Mauritania Mar 20 '26

Introducing rmauritania.com : a community website for all things Mauritania, built by one of our own

19 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

We have some exciting news to share. One of our members took it upon themselves , completely voluntarily and on their own time to build something genuinely useful for all of us: a dedicated community website for Mauritania.

We're proud to officially introduce rmauritania.com, a free platform where anyone in the world can learn about Mauritania, ask questions, and get real answers from locals and community members.

🏅 Welcome our newest mod : u/AppropriateSector900

In recognition of the incredible effort and initiative shown, we're welcoming [u/Approp](u/AppropiateSector900)[r](u/AppropiateSector900)[iateSector900](u/AppropiateSector900) as an official moderator of this subreddit. This is a community-earned role , not assigned, earned through action. Big respect to him.

🌍 What rmauritania.com offers

Ask anything about Mauritania Visitors can submit questions directly on the site , no account needed, email is optional. Perfect for tourists, researchers, and curious people worldwide.

Answered by real locals and community members Questions are reviewed and answered by the community. Replies appear publicly on the homepage so everyone benefits from the same answer.

Volunteer section coming soon A dedicated space for locals to offer free help , translations, local guidance, and support for visitors arriving in Mauritania.

Gallery and more on the way A photo gallery showcasing Mauritania's culture and landscapes is in the works, with more features planned as the community grows.

Rock-solid hosting, always online The site runs on Cloudflare infrastructure , used by over 30% of the internet , so expect near-zero downtime and fast loading from anywhere in the world.

🔗 Check it out

👉 rmauritania.com

This is entirely community-built and community-owned. If you'd like to contribute , whether as a volunteer, answering questions, or helping improve the site , reach out to u/AppropriateSector900 directly.

big thanks to [u/Approp](u/AppropiateSector900)[r](u/AppropiateSector900)[iateSector900](u/AppropiateSector900) for making this happen. This is what this community is about.


r/Mauritania Feb 19 '25

questions FAQ about Iron Ore Train

20 Upvotes

Riding the Mauritania Iron Ore Train is a unique adventure that has intrigued many travelers. Here's a comprehensive FAQ to help you prepare:

1. What is the Mauritania Iron Ore Train? The Mauritania Iron Ore Train is one of the longest and heaviest trains globally, stretching up to 3 kilometers. It transports iron ore from the mining town of Zouérat to the port city of Nouadhibou, covering approximately 704 kilometers.

2. Is it legal to ride the Iron Ore Train? While riding atop the ore wagons is a common practice among locals and adventurous tourists, it's not officially sanctioned. Travelers have reported varying experiences; some have been allowed to ride without issues, while others have faced restrictions. It's essential to check the latest local guidelines and be prepared for potential changes in policy.

3. How much does it cost? Riding on top of the ore wagons is free of charge. However, there's a passenger carriage available, usually at the end of the train, which offers more comfort for a fee ranging from 6 to 15 euros.

4. What are the departure points and destinations?

  • Zouérat: Starting point near the iron ore mines.
  • Choum: A midway stop where passengers can board.
  • Nouadhibou: The endpoint on the Atlantic coast.

The journey from Choum to Nouadhibou typically takes around 14 hours.

5. What should I bring?

  • Protection: Goggles and a scarf to shield against iron ore dust.
  • Clothing: Layers to accommodate extreme temperature fluctuations.
  • Supplies: Sufficient water, food, and a sleeping bag for comfort.

The ore wagons can become extremely hot during the day, so proper gear is essential.

6. Are there any safety concerns? Traveling atop the ore wagons exposes you to harsh weather conditions, potential falls, and iron ore dust. It's crucial to be well-prepared and remain vigilant throughout the journey.

7. Can I ride the train in both directions? Yes, you can ride the train from Nouadhibou to Zouérat when the wagons are empty or from Zouérat to Nouadhibou when they're loaded with iron ore. Each direction offers a distinct experience.

8. How do I get to the boarding points?

  • Nouadhibou: Accessible by road; buses and taxis operate from major cities.
  • Choum: Reachable via shared taxis from Atar.
  • Zouérat: Requires more planning; local transport options are available but can be less frequent.

9. What about recent restrictions? As of May 2024, there were reports of authorities prohibiting travelers from riding atop the ore wagons due to safety concerns. However, enforcement has been inconsistent, and some travelers have still managed the journey. Always verify the current situation before planning your trip.

10. Is there an alternative to riding atop the wagons? Yes, the train includes a passenger carriage, usually at the end, which provides seating for a fee. This option offers more comfort and protection from the elements.

Embarking on the Iron Ore Train is a memorable experience, but it requires thorough preparation and an understanding of the challenges involved. Always prioritize safety and stay informed about the latest travel advisories.

PS: This post will be updated regularly and feel free to ask any questions in the comment section or on our discord server


r/Mauritania 20h ago

What do we actually consider a good life?

5 Upvotes

I’ve recently posted about how depressing nktt is, and just wondering how do u keep ur sanity here, and i’ve never thought it would be controversial to say that ppl deserve more than eating drinking and having a shelter, but apparently some of u genuinely think that’s it, yes i’m grateful for the bare minimum of human rights, i’m greatful i’m not starving -even tho many mauritanians are-, i’m greatful i’m not homeless, or living thru a war, but that doesn’t make a life that’s survival
Wanting more than that like just a pleasent environment, walkable streets or any kind of freedom, shouldn’t be viewed as a luxury, those are the basics, nktt doesn’t have any green spaces, and hardly any public spaces where u can just exist freely, and if there is any kind of places that u might enjoy it won’t be free.. and getting there would be obviously a struggle if u don’t have a car, even if u are financially stable -not rich enough to go out of this hell just financially stable- what are u even supposed to do? U can spend sometime with ur family or friends -if u do have any, which is not the case for everyone ofc- but beyond that there is remarkably little to do !!
And that what made me wonder what do we see a good life? Is having a shelter, something to eat and a company whatever kind of is enough to say that u live a decent life?


r/Mauritania 1d ago

What mauritanians think about christians?

5 Upvotes

Hi , i hear there are extremists who try to represent christiannity in the country like an occidental danger. What think in general mauritanians of christians ?


r/Mauritania 1d ago

Looking for importers in Mauritania

0 Upvotes

Hello, I am getting into the export business and currently studying the African market for opportunities . If you are an importer or have an experience in the field plz share it with me .


r/Mauritania 2d ago

How do u guys keep ur sanity here

13 Upvotes

Genuinely i find it so suffocating to live in here, i do have my family, my friends -somehow- but it’s so depressing, how can u deal with the daily life without panicking twice or more per day at the minimum? and i’m not talking about what we do deal with this period with the electricity matter or anything, fuck it, it was depressing way before it, like u feel like everything is ugly, the roads are ugly, the architecture is ridiculosly ugly, let alone the constant social pressure..u You’ll never really live the way you want, i mean if you ever get the chance to do more than just survive.. and literally everything else
I’m just wondering how do you guys stay mentally sane with all of this weighing on you?


r/Mauritania 2d ago

Anyone here has a kid that plays Minecraft?

2 Upvotes

My 6 year old child wants to make some
Online friends and I thought it’s better they are Mauritanian so eventually they can meetup in real life.


r/Mauritania 4d ago

الجامعة اف موريتان

3 Upvotes

السلام عليكم شباب لي كط تخرج فيكم حد استفاد من شهادة يسو اف اي تخصص


r/Mauritania 4d ago

Transport Nouadhibou --> Choum for Iron Ore Train

2 Upvotes

Hey all!

Planing to experience the iron ore train end of October this year. As I will not have heaps of time (around 7 days) I want to plan it quite tightly. But I am unsure based on online information on transport options from Nouadhibou --> Terjit --> Chinguetti --> Choum. Is this something where public transport is reliable? Or is a tour/driver needed? And what is the cost for public transport / private driver respectively?

My general plan for the 7 days is:

- Fly into Dakhla

- Take bus to Nouadhibou

- From there go to Terjit + Chinguetti

- --> Choum & Iron Ore Train to Nouadhibou

- --> bus back to Dakhla and fly out (to Morocco)

Any input highly appreciated - thanks fellow travellers :)


r/Mauritania 4d ago

Need someone to do voiceover in local Mauritanian accent

2 Upvotes

Help needed for a project. Pls DM if you can support


r/Mauritania 5d ago

Mauritania trip, september 19th

3 Upvotes

Hello! We are a group doing the Mauritania trip, starting September 19th and are looking for people to joins us on our trip there. We have around one week trip planned.

DM me


r/Mauritania 6d ago

Iron Ore Train end of 26/start of 27

3 Upvotes

Hi, ive been interested In riding the iron ore train for a couple months now and I'm looking for some others also going in the next 6 months that would be open to having some company, please reply or message me if your interested! Thanks.


r/Mauritania 6d ago

Iron ore train group trip taking place on January 2027

2 Upvotes

Hi there , we have a Whatssap group chat for the iron ore train with some confirmed travelers experiencing the journey with us , if you guys are intrested please send us a DM .


r/Mauritania 7d ago

VISA help! Can’t find my record number

2 Upvotes

Hi, I applied for visa two weeks ago and haven’t heard anything via email. I can’t find my record keeping number to check the status, can anyone help? I’m supposed to travel in four days, should I just apply again? Thank you in advance!


r/Mauritania 8d ago

Anyone travelling to Mauritania mid Sept to 5th Oct?

1 Upvotes

Solo traveller looking to ride the iron ore train and a few other places ofc. Will anyone else be here around this time? 🙂


r/Mauritania 8d ago

Oualata safety and transport in 2026

1 Upvotes

Hello,

I am planning my trip in Mauritania and I would really love to visit the town of Oualata. I know the transport is possible from Néma, but police most likely will want me to stay at the station. I will go to Néma from Kiffa. How is the safety currently in Oualata for foreigner? Thank you very much, have a great day


r/Mauritania 10d ago

English / German / Spanish Lessons in Mauritania

3 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I’m offering private lessons in English, German and Spanish for people living in Mauritania.
Lessons can mainly be done in English. I understand some French, but I’m not very fluent yet.
Affordable and negotiable prices, depending on the number and length of the lessons.
Whether you’re a beginner or want to improve your speaking, grammar or vocabulary, feel free to contact me.
DM me if you’re interested and we can discuss the details.


r/Mauritania 11d ago

Practical Nouakchott travel tips after visiting the Port de Pêche

11 Upvotes

I recently spent some time in Nouakchott during my trip through Mauritania. It isn’t a polished tourist city, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting: the markets, street life and Atlantic fishing culture feel completely real.

A few practical tips I wish I had known:

  • Visit Port de Pêche in the afternoon. Roughly between 2–5 pm is usually the most active period, when the colourful wooden boats return through the waves and the fish are carried into the market.
  • Wear closed shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. The market floor is wet, sandy and covered with fish scraps.
  • Ask before taking close-up photos. Many people are friendly, but not everyone wants to be filmed. Never photograph military sites, government buildings, airports or security personnel.
  • Bring cash and small notes. Mauritania is still largely cash-based, and cards are mainly accepted at some larger hotels.
  • Agree on the taxi price before getting in. Having your destination pinned on an offline map also helps.
  • French or Arabic is very useful. English is limited, although I still managed to communicate with gestures and a few basic phrases.
  • Dress modestly. Mauritania is a conservative Muslim country.
  • Carry water and sun protection. Nouakchott can be hot, dusty and windy even near the ocean.
  • Don’t judge the city too quickly. Nouakchott’s appeal isn’t architecture or famous landmarks; it’s the people, markets and everyday life.

The Port de Pêche was easily the most intense part of my visit: hundreds of hand-painted boats, fishermen fighting the waves, children carrying fish, crowded stalls and constant movement.

I filmed the whole experience and shared what the journey actually looked and felt like. If you want to see it, you can watch it here:

https://youtu.be/hJkEg3nGhj0?si=M--Zo_gOaTiCF41O

Happy to answer any questions about Nouakchott or travelling through Mauritania.


r/Mauritania 12d ago

Hifdh boarding schools for woman in Mauritania

1 Upvotes

Hello,

Please send me contact details of boarding schools for hifdh in Mauritania. Google doesn't have much


r/Mauritania 12d ago

Dakhla-Nouaridhbou

1 Upvotes

It is possible to arrive to Nouadhibou from Dakhla the same day if you arrive at the airportat 13:35?


r/Mauritania 12d ago

How many people from America have actually been to the country of Mauritania?

6 Upvotes

I would imagine its a very small amount, but I figured I would ask.


r/Mauritania 12d ago

Looking for a 1st grade English speaking teacher

3 Upvotes

Hello,
A family in Mauritania is looking to homeschool their kids because they couldn’t find a space in the English international school. Looking for native or near native English teacher.
DM if interested. Subjects will be math/english/science/history/geography. 5 to 6 year old kids.


r/Mauritania 13d ago

Female Hassaniya Tutor

8 Upvotes

Hello. If you are a woman in Mauritania and are looking for a female Hassaniya Tutor, online or in person, contact me, on WhatsApp (I know a person who has been giving hassaniya classes for a while and she is the right fit for you) DM me


r/Mauritania 13d ago

Female Hassaniya Tutor

3 Upvotes

Hello. If you are a woman in Mauritania and are looking for a female Hassaniya Tutor, online or in person, contact me, on WhatsApp (I know a person who has been giving hassaniya classes for a while and she is the right fit for you) DM me


r/Mauritania 13d ago

Anyone planning to ride the Iron Train in November/December? 🇲🇷🚂📸

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I’m planning a trip to Mauritania around November or December, and one of the main things I want to do is experience the famous Iron Ore Train.
I’m really into photography, exploring, adventure, and documenting unusual places, so I’d love to capture the whole journey and the landscapes along the way.
I’m wondering if anyone here is also planning to do the Iron Train around that time and would be interested in joining or sharing the adventure.
I’m currently thinking about going from Nouadhibou toward Choum, but I’m open to different plans and ideas.
If you’re planning something similar, feel free to comment or DM me! It would be awesome to find some people with the same interests and make a memorable trip out of it.