Things To Do
in Akjoujt
Akjoujt is a remote desert town in central Mauritania, perched on the edge of the Sahara and surrounded by sandy plateaus and rocky outcrops. Historically a mining hub and caravan stop, it remains a gateway to vast desert landscapes and nomadic culture. The town centers on a small market, mosques, and simple guesthouses that offer a window into daily life in the arid interior.
Visitors come for stargazing, dramatic dune drives, and exchanges with Tuareg and Moor communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Akjoujt and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding desert landscape. Familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs as you prepare for your adventure ahead.
Explore the town of Akjoujt, visiting local markets and interacting with friendly residents. Sample traditional Mauritanian cuisine at a nearby restaurant, experiencing the unique flavors of the region. Take photographs of the stunning architecture and vibrant colors of the town's buildings.
Relax at your accommodation or take a stroll through the town as the sun sets. Experience the peaceful ambiance of the desert as the stars begin to twinkle in the clear sky. Savor an evening meal featuring local delicacies and reflect on your first day in Akjoujt.
Join a guided tour that highlights the cultural significance of Akjoujt. Visit the local museum to learn about the rich history of the area and the traditions of the Mauritanian people. Engage with a local artist who shares their craft and stories.
Participate in a traditional Mauritanian cooking class where you can learn to prepare famous dishes. Enjoy your culinary creations during a communal lunch, exchanging stories and laughter with fellow participants. Visit handicraft shops to purchase unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans.
Attend a community event or local gathering where you can witness traditional music and dance. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as you interact with the locals and their vibrant culture. End the night with an outdoor dinner under the stars, sharing stories with new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $18-40 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local transportation (shared taxi) per ride | $1-4 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning, pristine desert landscapes with few crowds
- Authentic Mauritanian culture and hospitality
- Affordable costs and simple, rustic accommodation
- Clear night skies ideal for stargazing
- Opportunities to connect with nomadic and desert communities
- Remote and rugged with limited infrastructure
- Limited English/French in some areas; expect language barriers
- Basic healthcare and emergency services outside major cities
- Very hot summers and challenging travel conditions in dunes
- Occasional travel delays due to weather or road conditions
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "Min fadlak" - Please
- "Ana la atakallam al-‘Arabiyya jayyidan" - I don’t speak Arabic well
- "Ayna al-ḥammaam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Akjoujt
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over rolling dunes just outside Akjoujt creates warm, sculpted shadows and tranquil silhouettes.
The market’s activity during the late afternoon offers colorful textiles, baskets, and people-portraits bathed in amber light.
Sunrise or sunset brings dramatic contrast on weathered rock outcrops and eroded canyons nearby.
Dry riverbeds and fringe vegetation provide contrast between sand and hardy shrubs, ideal for wide-angle shots.
A pristine, dark desert sky with minimal light pollution—perfect for astrophotography and star trails.
Food in Akjoujt
Akjoujt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked lamb with dates and savory spices, typically served with couscous or bread.
Must-Try!
A staple meal featuring fluffy couscous topped with a meat and vegetable sauce, brightened with herbs.
Grilled chunks of camel meat seasoned with regional spice blends, commonly available at local grills.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market with dates, grains, bread, and fresh produce; street vendors grill meats and offer flatbreads and tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful; women may prefer modest attire in public spaces.
Greet locals politely; negotiations on price are common but approached with patience and a smile.
Respect local customs and religious practices; ask before taking photos of people, especially in villages.
Avoid pointing with feet or showing the soles of shoes; use the right hand for giving and receiving.
Safety
Tipping in Akjoujt
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a tip of about 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated. Guides and drivers may appreciate 500–1000 MRU per day, depending on service level.
Cash (Mauritanian Ouguiya, MRU) is the most widely accepted. Some places may accept XOF or USD; cards are rarely used in Akjoujt. ATMs are limited; carry ample cash and consider mobile money options where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Extreme daytime heat with very dry air; plan early-morning excursions, carry ample water, wear a hat and light clothing, and seek shade during peak sun.
Milder daytime temperatures but can be cool or cold at night; bring warm layers and a jacket for evenings.
Pleasant days with cooler nights; good for outdoor activities, but winds can pick up; keep sun protection handy.
Akjoujt at Night
Hiking in Akjoujt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes to see rock formations and desert vistas; guides can help with navigation and safety.
Accessible day trips for panoramic photography and easy dune treks with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Akjoujt by plane.
Primary international gateway to Mauritania; most travelers reach Akjoujt by road from Nouakchott after arrival here.
Coastal airport serving regional flights; longer overland transfer to Akjoujt is required.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority in many inland Mauritanian towns, including Akjoujt; cultural influences shape language, dress, and daily life.
Nomadic and semi-nomadic groups with strong desert-hospitality traditions; influence local crafts and music.
Contribute to the region’s diversity in languages, cuisine, and seasonal movements.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; local clubs and informal games are common in towns like Akjoujt.
Traditional desert sports tied to nomadic culture; occasional events occur in the wider region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akjoujt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes center on meat, but vegetarian-friendly options include vegetable stews, lentils, bread, and couscous with vegetables. Request dishes without meat stock and opt for durum bread and date sweets to stay satiated.