Arafat

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Arafat's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the Sahara
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Mauritanian breakfast consisting of bread and milk. After breakfast, embark on a guided tour into the Sahara Desert to witness its vast beauty.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the desert, surrounded by stunning sand dunes. Afterward, take a camel ride to explore more of the surrounding landscape.

evening
:

As the sun sets, experience the breathtaking desert twilight. Spend the night camping under the stars while enjoying local storytelling.

day 2
Visit to Ancient Ruins
morning
:

Visit the ancient ruins of Ouadane, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the fascinating history and architecture of this once-thriving trade center.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local eatery, enjoying traditional dishes. Continue exploring the ruins and learn more about the history from local guides.

evening
:

Return to Arafat and relax at your accommodation. Enjoy a quiet evening reflecting on the day's discoveries.

day 3
Cultural Immersion Day
morning
:

Visit a local market to experience Mauritania's vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts. Interact with locals and learn about their daily life.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional Mauritanian dishes. Enjoy your delicious homemade lunch afterward.

evening
:

Attend a cultural show featuring traditional music and dance. Let the night be filled with vibrant performances and local folklore.

day 4
Camel Trekking Adventure
morning
:

Get an early start for a camel trekking adventure in the nearby dunes. Enjoy the serenity of the desert while riding through breathtaking landscapes.

afternoon
:

Stop for a leisurely lunch at a scenic spot in the desert, perhaps enjoying some local bread and tagine. Continue the trek and witness the unique desert wildlife.

evening
:

Set up camp in the desert for an overnight stay. Enjoy a campfire dinner and share stories with fellow travelers.

day 5
Sunrise at the Dunes
morning
:

Wake up early to catch the stunning sunrise over the sand dunes. This moment is perfect for photography and appreciating nature's beauty.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, spend the afternoon exploring nearby oases and taking in the lush greenery. Visit local villages to meet people living under challenging conditions.

evening
:

Return to Arafat, unwind, and enjoy a leisurely evening at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Mauritanian gumbo for dinner.

day 6
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Head to a nearby national park to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. A guided walk will enhance your experience by pointing out unique species.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, reveling in the quiet and beauty all around. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or taking photos of the landscape.

evening
:

Return to Arafat and visit local galleries showcasing wildlife photography. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its local seafood dishes.

day 7
Camping Under the Stars
morning
:

Prepare for a camping trip into the wild of Mauritania. Gather supplies and set out early to secure a good camping spot.

afternoon
:

Upon reaching your campsite, enjoy a light lunch prepared by your guides. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area or hiking local trails.

evening
:

Settle down for an evening around the campfire, sharing stories and enjoying the ambience of the desert night. Savor a traditional meal cooked over the fire.

day 8
Hiking Day Trip
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to nearby mountains for a hiking adventure. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy during your hike, taking breaks to admire the nature around you. Explore hidden trails and perhaps discover local wildlife.

evening
:

Return to Arafat after a day of adventure, and indulge in a comforting dinner. Consider sharing your experiences with fellow travelers at your accommodation.

day 9
Culinary Tasting Tour
morning
:

Join a culinary tour to learn about traditional Mauritanian cuisine. Explore local markets and gather ingredients for your meals.

afternoon
:

Participate in preparing a full feast, learning from professional cooks about various cooking techniques. Enjoy the fruits of your labor over lunch.

evening
:

End your culinary day with a tasting tour of local sweets and desserts. Explore different cafes to try after-dinner specialties while mingling with the locals.

day 10
Religious and Historical Sites
morning
:

Visit significant religious sites in and around Arafat, gaining insights into the local beliefs and traditions. Respectfully explore the mosques and their architecture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch in the city and discuss the history of Mauritania with local historians. Visit museums to learn more about the country's past.

evening
:

Join a group for a reflective evening discussion on the cultural heritage of Mauritania. Savor a traditional dinner while sharing your thoughts.

Discover Arafat

Read more in our Arafat 2024 Travel Guide.

Arafat Travel Guide