Choum

Choum is far more than a simple desert village; it is a vital hub for adventure-seeking travelers. The main attraction is undoubtedly the Mauritanian Iron Ore Train, one of the longest and heaviest trains in the world, which stops here on its journey from the mines in Zouérat to the port of Nouadhibou. Intrepid travelers often use Choum as a jump-off point to ride in the open ore hopper wagons, a dusty but unforgettable experience under the Saharan stars. Beyond the railway, Choum serves as the gateway to the Adrar Plateau, a region filled with ancient towns, lush oases, and towering sand dunes. The landscape around Choum is stark and expansive, characterized by the reddish tones of the desert. Here, one can experience the authentic lifestyle of nomads and the incredible hospitality of the Mauritanian people, who frequently invite travelers for a traditional glass of tea. The local cuisine is simple yet nourishing, with dates, couscous, and camel meat serving as staples. Choum is accessible by road from Atar, but arriving by train is by far the more spectacular option. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to March, as summer temperatures in this area can be exceptionally high. Visitors should prepare for basic conditions, as Choum is a functional settlement without luxury resorts. Its charm lies in the raw power of nature and the meeting of heavy industry with the vast emptiness of the desert. It is a place for explorers who wish to trade modern comfort for genuine, unvarnished experiences.

Nearby cities

Nouakchott Central Market

The central market of Nouakchott is a significant hub for regional trade.

Nouakchott

Nouakchott is the capital of Mauritania and lies on the Atlantic coast.

Nouadhibou

Nouadhibou is located on the Ras Nouadhibou peninsula and is the economic center for iron ore exports.

Kiffa-Nord

Kiffa-Nord is an expanding part of Kiffa.

Kiffa

Kiffa is a city in southern Mauritania and capital of the Assaba region.

Market Town Kiffa

Kiffa serves as a central hub for trade in the eastern regions of Mauritania.

Nouakchott Wholesale Market

This wholesale market in Nouakchott coordinates the flow of goods in the capital.

Kaedi Distribution Center

Kaedi serves as an important commercial base along the river course.

Kaédi-Nord

Kaédi-Nord includes residential areas on the northern edge of Kaédi.

Kaedi Agricultural Center

Kaedi is situated along the Senegal River and is a center for local agriculture.

Zouérat

Zouérat is the center of Mauritanian iron ore mining in the Sahara Desert.

Zouérat-Nord

Zouérat-Nord includes the northern expansion zones of the industrial town Zouérat.

Atar Oasis Agriculture

Atar is a center for date palm cultivation in the Sahara.

Boutilimit

Boutilimit is known as a center of Islamic scholarship.

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Aleg

A strategic transit and commercial hub in southern Mauritania, famous for its seasonal lake.

History & landmarks

Azougui

The former capital of the Almoravid Empire, rich in history and surrounded by palms.

Amogjar Pass

Amogjar Pass is a spectacular mountain pass featuring prehistoric rock paintings and breathtaking views over the Sahara Desert.

Azougui Fort

Azougui was the capital of the Almoravids in the 11th century.

Nature

More places

Tichitt Old Town

Tichitt is a fortified desert town built in the 12th century.

Atar Oasis

Atar is a central desert trade hub with adjacent palm groves.

Adrar Plateau

The Adrar Plateau is a vast sandstone plateau in the western Sahara.

Azougui Palm Groves

The palm groves of Azougui were a historical source of livelihood.

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Azougui Fort Remains

The remains of the fortress of Azougui provide insights into early defense.

Azougui Historical Ruins

The historical ruins of Azougui provide insights into the old capital.

Adrar Dunes

The Adrar Dunes are a vast dune field in the north of the Adrar Plateau.

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Terjit North Oasis

The northern part of the Terjit oasis chain offers additional habitats.