Brand new from Bradt, and written by Africa expert Sean Connolly, is the first English-language guide dedicated to Mauritania, one of an ever more exclusive list of countries where the Sahara Desert can be securely and freely explored. Straddling the west coast of Africa for 700km between Western Sahara and Senegal, Mauritania occupies the threshold between North and sub-Saharan Africa, but remains a world apart from either - neither Moroccan nor Senegalese, but with strong influences from both.

The country is now on a well-traveled route for overlanders heading south from Europe to start African trips. But most go straight to the southern border, rather than staying longer. Those who do stay may marvel at stone-built oasis towns nestled into dune fields the size of small countries, admire wild geological wonders like the Richat Structure (said to be the home of the lost city of Atlantis), explore a nearly uninhabited, wind-swept coast where you can sail between remote fishing villages in the Banc d'Arguin National Park or spend the night camping and sipping strong green tea on a cliffside in a traditional khaima tent.

Mauritania is vast, hot, dusty - and a blank spot on the map for all but the most dedicated Africa travelers. If you're willing to endure the intensely hot midday sun and the occasional mouthful of sand, you'll be rewarded with the profound silence of nights under the desert stars and the warm hospitality and curiosity of everyday Mauritanians. Here you can overnight on the world’s longest train (up to 3km long), camel trek between shifting dunes and lush oases of the Adrar, lay out your sleeping mat under the stars, marvel at Chinguetti's priceless manuscripts, experience ancient rhythms along the Senegal River (where seasonal floods set the tempo), watch the Imraguen people fish cooperatively with dolphins, or get fitted for a flowing blue or white boubou or a melahfa outfit.

Full of background information, packed with practical tips from navigating to cultural etiquette, and exploring the entire country from the capital Nouakchott to remote regions, Bradt's pioneering guidebook to Mauritania is the essential travel companion for an unforgettable journey.

Pages: 320, Year of Publication: 2020