Mauritania

Mauritania is a large country in West Africa, bordered by a long Atlantic coastline to the west and an expanse of Sahara to the east. With one of the world’s lowest population densities, much of Mauritania’s appeal lies in these vast, almost-unexplored wildernesses. And the Sahara in Mauritania is what you’d expect from what you’ve seen on the telly: deep hues of red and yellow contrasted against a blindingly blue sky, interrupted by hovel villages and wandering goats. Charter yourself a 4×4 and a specialist guide and go on a wild adventure into the depths of this fascinating country.

The capital of Nouakchott will be your point of entry. As one of the largest cities in the Sahara, there are attractions here that offer you a pristine glimpse into a people that have lived in the same way for a very long time. One of the most frequented place by foreign visitors is the beach, Plage de Nouakchott, where you are allowed to wear a swimsuit in this predominately Islamic country. However, much of Mauritania’s beauty lies beyond the city’s borders. A trip to the historic site of Chinguetti is a must, and the Bibliotheque Habott should be on your itinerary for a visceral glance into the past.