Things to Do in Richat Structure, Mauritanie موريتانيا

The Richat Structure, also known as the 'Eye of the Sahara' or 'Eye of Africa,' is one of Earth's most mysterious and spectacular geological formations located in the Mauritanian Sahara Desert. This massive circular structure spans approximately 50 kilometers in diameter and consists of concentric rings of ancient rock formations that create a mesmerizing bull's-eye pattern visible even from space. Originally thought to be an impact crater, scientists now believe it formed through geological uplift and erosion over millions of years. Visiting the Richat Structure offers adventurous travelers a chance to witness one of nature's most enigmatic creations in the heart of the Sahara. The site requires careful planning and experienced guides due to its remote location near Ouadane, but rewards visitors with otherworldly landscapes, ancient geological history, and some of the most pristine night skies on Earth. This destination appeals to geology enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers looking for an truly unique off-the-beaten-path experience.

Top Things to Do in Richat Structure

Aerial Photography Tour

Experience the full majesty of the Richat Structure from above with a scenic flight or drone photography session. The circular formation's concentric rings and geological layers are best appreciated from an elevated perspective, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities of this natural wonder.

Booking Tip: Charter flights cost $300-500 per person and require advance booking through Nouakchott operators. Best visibility is early morning or late afternoon. Ensure operators have proper permits for the restricted area.

Geological Exploration Hike

Trek across the different rock formations and geological layers that make up the Richat Structure with expert guides. Learn about the fascinating geological processes that created this phenomenon while collecting samples and examining ancient sedimentary rocks, quartzites, and volcanic formations.

Booking Tip: Full-day guided hikes cost $80-120 per person including transport from Ouadane. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy hiking boots. Best during cooler months October-March.

Desert Camping Experience

Spend nights camping within or near the Richat Structure for an unforgettable Sahara desert experience. Enjoy traditional Mauritanian meals around campfires, listen to local stories, and witness some of the clearest stargazing opportunities on the planet with minimal light pollution.

Booking Tip: Multi-day camping packages range from $150-250 per person per day including meals and guides. Book through reputable Ouadane operators who provide proper desert camping equipment and safety measures.

Archaeological Site Visits

Explore nearby archaeological sites and ancient settlements around the Richat Structure area. Discover prehistoric tools, rock art, and evidence of ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region when the Sahara was more hospitable to human habitation.

Booking Tip: Combined archaeological tours cost $60-100 per day. Hire local guides from Ouadane who know the locations of significant finds. Respect all archaeological sites and never remove artifacts.

Traditional Nomad Culture Experience

Meet local nomadic communities who still traverse the Sahara and learn about their traditional way of life, survival techniques, and deep knowledge of desert navigation. Experience authentic Mauritanian hospitality and gain insights into centuries-old desert traditions.

Booking Tip: Cultural experiences cost $40-80 per person and should be arranged through respectful local operators. Bring small gifts like tea or sugar as tokens of appreciation. Learn basic Arabic or French phrases.

Getting There

Reaching the Richat Structure requires a multi-stage journey starting with flights to Nouakchott, Mauritania's capital, typically via Casablanca or Paris. From Nouakchott, travelers must arrange 4WD transportation to Ouadane, the nearest town to the structure, which involves a challenging 6-8 hour drive across desert terrain. Most visitors join organized tours from Nouakchott that include transportation, permits, and experienced desert guides, as independent travel to this remote location is extremely difficult and potentially dangerous without proper desert navigation experience.

Getting Around

Transportation around the Richat Structure area is exclusively by 4WD vehicles due to the sandy, rocky desert terrain with no established roads. All movement requires experienced local drivers familiar with desert navigation and GPS coordinates. Walking exploration is possible within the structure itself, but distances are vast and the desert environment demands careful planning, adequate water supplies, and navigation equipment. Most visitors rely entirely on their tour operators for all transportation needs in this remote region.

Where to Stay

Desert camping within Richat Structure

Ouadane guesthouses

Chinguetti traditional accommodations

Atar hotel options

Nouakchott before departure

Mobile desert camps

Food & Dining

Dining options near the Richat Structure are extremely limited, with most meals provided by tour operators as part of organized expeditions. Traditional Mauritanian cuisine dominates, featuring dishes like thieboudienne (fish and rice), couscous, grilled meats, and the essential mint tea served throughout the day. Desert camping experiences typically include communal meals prepared over campfires, offering authentic flavors and social dining experiences under the stars. Visitors should stock up on snacks and bottled water in Ouadane or Nouakchott, as no restaurants or shops exist near the structure itself.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Mauritania

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Bamboo Asian Cuisine - Jounieh

4.9 /5

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Norma

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The Ridge Cafe

4.7 /5

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Atom Coffee Hub

4.6 /5

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When to Visit

The optimal time to visit the Richat Structure is during Mauritania's cooler dry season from November through March, when daytime temperatures are more manageable (20-30°C) and nights are comfortable for camping. Avoid the extreme summer months (May-September) when temperatures can exceed 50°C and make desert exploration dangerous. The brief rainy season (July-September) can make desert roads impassable. Winter months offer the clearest skies for stargazing and aerial photography, with minimal dust storms and excellent visibility for appreciating the geological formations.

Insider Tips

Bring a high-quality GPS device and backup navigation tools as mobile phone coverage is non-existent in the desert

Pack more water than recommended - desert conditions require 4-5 liters per person per day minimum

Coordinate visits with experienced local operators in Ouadane who have proper permits and knowledge of current desert conditions

Things to Do in Richat Structure