Adrar Region, Mauritania
Ouadane — The Ruined Caravan City of the Adrar
Stone ruins on a desert escarpment, a UNESCO ksar older than Chinguetti, and the gateway to the Eye of the Sahara.
A caravan city in ruins
Ouadane was founded in the twelfth century on the edge of the Adrar plateau and grew rich on the trans-Saharan caravan trade in salt, dates and gold. Its old stone quarter, climbing a rocky slope above the palm groves, is now largely ruined — and, together with Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata, it forms the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ancient Ksour of Mauritania.
Walking the narrow lanes of dry-stone houses with a local guide, above a valley of date palms, is quieter and wilder than Chinguetti. Ouadane also sits closest to the Richat Structure, the vast circular formation known as the Eye of the Sahara.
Visiting Ouadane
Ouadane lies north-east of Chinguetti, a desert drive of a few hours by 4x4. It is not on our standard itineraries, but it is one of the most popular extensions: add a day or two and we can combine Chinguetti, Ouadane and the Eye of the Sahara before you head for the iron ore train.
Ouadane in Photos
Ouadane: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ouadane worth visiting?
Yes, if you have time. It is older and emptier than Chinguetti, with dramatic stone ruins, and it is the natural base for visiting the Richat Structure.
How do I add Ouadane to a tour?
Tell us when you enquire. Ouadane and the Eye of the Sahara usually add one or two days to a Chinguetti itinerary.
More places to discover in Mauritania
Tailor-made trips
Want a tour built around you?
Every itinerary here can be changed: your own dates, a private departure for your family or friends, more days in the desert, or extras like the Eye of the Sahara and Ouadane. Tell us what you want to see and we will design it.