Mauritania’s Iron Ore Train stretches across the Sahara Desert, offering an adventurous yet difficult 18-hour journey. With its cargo of iron ore, the train becomes a unique ride for locals and tourists alike, often attracting those who hitch rides on the ore carriages. While officially costing €15 for a seat, many opt for the clandestine ride, driven by the train’s adventurous appeal. Despite the lack of facilities and discomfort, it remains a popular bucket-list experience. Moreover, it’s crucial to acknowledge that hitching a ride on the iron ore train is currently illegal for tourists due to safety concerns and incidents of rule breaches. As more intrepid travellers seek authenticity in their adventures, the iron ore train in Mauritania stands at a crossroads.
Source: IOL
