Imagine a journey where the train is not just a mode of transport but an epic, dust-laden adventure across the harsh and mesmerising landscapes of the Sahara. The Mauritania Railway offers this and more—a surreal, almost mythical experience that’s as bizarre as it is unforgettable. Known simply as “le train” by locals, this iron beast stretches over 700 kilometres from the mines of Zouérat to the port of Nouadhibou, carrying not just iron ore but also the dreams and daring of those brave enough to ride atop its rumbling, open-air wagons.
Aboard The Mauritania Iron Ore Train
The iron ore train in Mauritania 🇲🇷
It’s one of the longest trains in the world, standing at around 2,5 km long. pic.twitter.com/KvU9A0uPAl
— Africa Archives ™ (@Africa_Archives) August 23, 2023
The Mauritania Railway is one of the most unique and challenging train rides you can experience. This iron ore train stretches across 437 miles of desert, connecting the iron mining centre of Zouérat to the port city of Nouadhibou.
The Mauritania Railway is primarily a freight train, transporting massive quantities of iron ore—over 16.5 million tonnes annually. But what makes it stand out is that it also carries passengers, though not in the conventional sense. Instead of cushy seats, passengers often ride atop the ore-filled hopper cars, exposed to the harsh elements of the desert. The train, one of the longest and heaviest in the world, can be up to 3 kilometres long, with around 200 wagons.
For those daring enough to take the ride, the journey offers stunning views of the vast Mauritanian desert, including sand dunes and rock formations. But these views come with a price—intense heat during the day, freezing temperatures at night, and a relentless onslaught of dust and ore particles.
Passengers often equip themselves with goggles, scarves, and even mattresses to protect against the harsh conditions. The train stops multiple times during its journey, giving passengers brief moments to stretch their legs.
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A Journey Through The Heart Of The Sahara Desert
Just jumped off the Mauritanian Iron Ore train and what an epic ride it’s been. It all started two weeks ago with my Interrail adventure from the Netherlands, a journey that now seems worlds away compared to the raw and rugged experience I’ve just had. pic.twitter.com/eBzQLaQFsi
— Wiebe Wakker (@WiebeWkkr) January 18, 2024
This train isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s an adventure, one that requires you to embrace the dirt, the discomfort, and the danger. The iron ore itself is your seat, your bed, and your constant companion.
The Mauritania Railway is definitely not for everyone. The journey can last up to 15 hours, during which you’ll be exposed to the elements with little protection. For many, the idea of riding on top of a pile of iron ore in the middle of the desert is more a tale of survival than a leisurely trip.
However, for the intrepid traveller seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, this ride offers something unparalleled. It’s a journey into the heart of Mauritania, both geographically and culturally, offering a glimpse into a way of life that is as harsh as it is fascinating.
In the end, riding the Mauritania Railway is about embracing the extreme. It’s about getting dirty, getting uncomfortable, and finding beauty in the bizarre.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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