Chinguetti Travel Guide

Explore the culture, natural beauty, food scene, and logistics of visiting Chinguetti, Mauritania with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Chinguetti

Chinguetti is a small town located in the Sahara desert of Mauritania, in Sahel region of Africa. The town is known for its rich history, culture, and unique architecture. It’s also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities like hiking and camping available here.

List of Places to Visit in Chinguetti

Here are a few of the top places to visit in Chinguetti:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chinguetti Mosque: This medieval mosque, also known as the Friday Mosque, is the largest mosque in the town and a symbol of its rich history.
  • Libraries of Chinguetti: The libraries of Chinguetti are known for their collection of Islamic manuscripts and ancient texts.
  • Old Town of Chinguetti: With its unique architecture and cobblestone streets, the old town of Chinguetti is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Chinguetti: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ouadane Dunes: Located just outside of Chinguetti, these sand dunes are popular for activities like sandboarding and camping.
  • Chinguetti Plateau: The plateau offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chinguetti

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures in Chinguetti, here are some popular hiking and biking routes:

  • Chinguetti to Ouadane Trek: This multi-day trek takes you through the Sahara desert, with stops at various historical sites along the way.
  • Chinguetti Plateau Hike: This day hike takes you through the plateau surrounding Chinguetti, offering stunning views of the desert landscape.

Best Things to Do in Chinguetti: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, here are some other top things to do in Chinguetti:

  • Desert Camping: Spend a night under the stars in the Sahara desert with a guided camping tour.
  • Local Market Visits: Explore the local markets and try some of the unique foods and goods available in the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chinguetti

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Chinguetti:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and settle-in
2 Chinguetti Plateau Hike and Museum Visits
3 Visit to Ouadane Dunes and Local Market
4 Guided Camping Tour in the Sahara Desert
5 Library Visits and Old Town Exploration
6 Chinguetti to Ouadane Trek
7 Departure or Optional Extension to Nearby Destinations

Food and Drink Scene of Chinguetti

The food scene in Chinguetti is heavily influenced by its Islamic culture, with a lot of emphasis on spices and meat dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Thieboudienne: A rice and fish dish that’s a popular staple in Mauritania.
  • Couscous: A traditional North African dish made of fine semolina flour.

Local Beverages

  • Touki: A traditional mint tea that’s popular throughout North Africa.

Where to Stay in Chinguetti: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a variety of accommodation options in Chinguetti, ranging from budget hostels to more luxury hotels. Here are some options to consider:

  • Auberge Iminouassif: A popular guesthouse in the heart of the old town.
  • Hotel El Khaima: A budget-friendly hotel with a rooftop terrace and views of the town.

What to Buy in Chinguetti: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Chinguetti, here are some options to consider:

  • Handmade crafts: You can find a variety of unique crafts made by locals, including pottery and woven textiles.
  • Dates: Mauritania is known for its high-quality dates, which make a great souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Chinguetti

Chinguetti is a predominantly Muslim town, so it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting. Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of local prayer times.

Best Time to Visit Chinguetti

The best time to visit Chinguetti is between November and February, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot and dry, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chinguetti

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Chinguetti:

Do:

  • Dress modestly: When visiting religious sites, it’s important to dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Try local cuisine: Chinguetti offers a unique blend of flavors influenced by its Islamic culture, so be sure to try some of the local dishes.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public: As a Muslim town, Chinguetti does not serve or consume alcohol in public areas.
  • Take photos without permission: It’s important to ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially women and children.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chinguetti

Chinguetti is generally a safe town to visit, with low crime rates. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Chinguetti

Mauritania is a country with a high risk of malaria, so it’s important to take preventative measures like using mosquito nets and taking antimalarial medication. It’s also recommended to stay hydrated and avoid drinking tap water.

Getting to Chinguetti: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chinguetti is located in a fairly remote area, so getting there can be a bit of a challenge. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Chinguetti

The closest airport to Chinguetti is the Nouakchott International Airport (NKC), which is about a 5-hour drive from the town.

Bus Stations Near Chinguetti

Chinguetti is not serviced by any major bus companies, but there are small local buses that run from neighboring towns.

Other Options

If you’re looking for a more comfortable option, you can also hire a private car or take a guided tour from Nouakchott or other neighboring towns.

How to Get Around in Chinguetti

Chinguetti is a small town, so it’s easy to get around on foot. Taxis are also available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Chinguetti: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip beyond Chinguetti, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Atar: A larger town located about 60 km from Chinguetti, known for its traditional architecture and historical sites.
  • Terjit Oasis: A natural oasis located about 3 hours from Chinguetti, popular for hiking and swimming.

Conclusion

Chinguetti is a unique destination that offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of the old town or trekking through the Sahara desert, Chinguetti is a must-visit for any traveler looking to explore the beauty and diversity of Africa.

The Great The Great "Friday Mosque" of Chinguetti. Inside a Qur'anic library. Inside a Qur'anic library.