📜 Operating since 1963, the Mauritania Railway is a 704 km line linking the iron mining center of Zouérat with the port of Nouadhibou. It's one of the world's longest and heaviest trains, carrying 17,000 tons of iron ore and passengers across the Sahara Desert. # Why Go 🚂 Experience an unforgettable journey across the Sahara. 🌌 Witness the Milky Way in the clear night sky. 🐪 Spot camels, goats, unique desert landscapes, and solitary huts. 🌍 Traverse one of Earth's harshest environments on one of the longest and heaviest trains globally. # Why Avoid ⚠️ No safety measures, emergency brakes, or barriers; violent jolts are common. 🥶 Extreme temperatures: sun-scorched days, bitterly cold nights. 🚫 No toilets, food supplies, or shelter on the train (unless in own vehicle). 💨 Expect lots of dust from iron ore. # Tips 🎒 Pack plenty of food, water, a blanket for night, and a scarf or turban. ⏳ Expect significant waiting times as departure/arrival are often unclear. 🚗 If bringing a vehicle, arrange in advance; off-loading at Choum is no longer common. 😷 Bring a mask to protect from iron ore dust if riding on mineral wagons. 🛣️ Bear in mind there are no paved roads, only dirt tracks through the desert. # Hours 🕒 Approximately 19 hours for the full journey, plus waiting time.