Ras Nouadhibou

Cape Sandbar peninsula forming border between Mauritania and Western Sahara

A headland by Nouadhibou on Mauritania’s Atlantic coast, Ras Nouadhibou marks a busy fishing area and shipwreck-strewn beaches; visitors observe maritime history, coastal wildlife and port activity.

Ras Nouadhibou is a long sandy peninsula and headland on Mauritania’s Atlantic coast near the city of Nouadhibou. The feature forms a narrow finger of land projecting into the Atlantic and separates coastal lagoons and inshore waters.

The area is notable for extensive coastal sand, shifting dunes and a conspicuous concentration of derelict ships along parts of the shoreline. The peninsula is also ecologically important for migratory birds and seals in adjacent waters and sheltered bays.

Ras Nouadhibou lies immediately adjacent to the city of Nouadhibou and forms part of the coastal boundary between Mauritania and the Western Sahara in the wider region.

Ship graveyard: The Ras Nouadhibou peninsula contains a well-known ship graveyard and stretches of exposed shoreline where wrecks and abandoned vessels are visible from the headland.

How to Get to Ras Nouadhibou #

Ras Nouadhibou is reached from the city of Nouadhibou (the nearest major settlement). From Nouadhibou centre it is a short drive along the narrow Nouadhibou peninsula to the headland; local taxis or hired 4x4s are the usual means of transport. Note the headland lies near the border with Western Sahara and access can be restricted, so check local permissions before visiting.

Tips for Visiting Ras Nouadhibou #

Plan to visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid‑day heat and strong Atlantic winds; Nouadhibou town is the practical base for accessing the headland so time your trip from there.
Arrange any visit through a local guide or through Nouadhibou authorities - the peninsula is a sensitive border area and access can be restricted, so expect checkpoints and carry your passport.
Don't miss the famous ship 'graveyard' near Nouadhibou and the nearby Cap Blanc (Ras Nouadhibou) seal reserve - visits to see the seals are best coordinated in advance with local operators or reserve staff.