Ben Amera — Local services in Adrar

Best kept secret and well worth the effort to get there, Mauritania's biggest rock and probably the 2nd largest in the world, rising some 633m (2027ft) above the desert floor. (World's biggest is the famous Uluru, in Australia). This one is called the Ben Amera, and lies inconspicuously in the desert between Nouadhibou and Zouerate, about 5km from Tmeimichat, (a small village on the route of the desert train). Consisting of one single element, this super large and smooth monolith is a must see, if you can find it, as there are no roads leading to it, so you'll need to use the train (Nouadibou-Choum train) which stops nearby, but does not wait for anyone to climb the monolith) or use a local guide or tour group provider. Mauritania has some spectacular natural unspoilt landscapes like this, and the local people are kind and gracious, especially...

Incredible natural landmark along the iron ore train tracks. The scale and magnitude of this monolith had me awestruck for days after visiting. I found myself repeatedly reviewing photos in amazement.

Many people pass by this monument from the train but I highly recommend camping at it overnight. It's dark sky country, and catching a sunrise behind the monolith is one of the most incredible scenes.

There is a military/security checkpoint between the train tracks and the monolith but it is otherwise untended.

Ben Amera is made entirely of granite. It's considered a monolith, but is more likely one peak in a range of granite mountaintops buried in the sand. There are several other peaks protruding from the desert floor around it. Aicha is the second largest one in the range and is about a half km...

This place is not only spiritual, it is one of a kind. A place where you could find peace, see the magnificent power of the creature and earth. I would definitely go back to this place. Wouldn’t recommend to visit it during summer though hence the harsh environment and extremely hot temperatures. Winter is the ideal time but you should expect a very cold weather. Bring your wood with you since this place doesn’t have much dry...