Nomads and Herders ... Mauritania, Land of Nomadism
Mauritania remains a true country of nomadic herders raising cattle, sheep, and camels in the Brakna, Assaba, and Hodh regions in the south of the country as well as in some valleys of Tagant.
Mauritania remains a true country of nomadic herders raising cattle, sheep, and camels in the Brakna, Assaba, and Hodh regions in the south of the country as well as in some valleys of Tagant.
In the northern regions, Inchiri, Amsaga, Tirris-Zemour, and Adrâr, the herds consist primarily of goats and camels (dromedaries).
Throughout our journeys, especially when grazing is good, we may catch sight of nomadic khaïma (tents), brown (made of wool and animal hair) or white (canvas), with edges rolled up when it is hot or windless.
Nomads are generally welcoming, but one can only visit them if there is an important reason to do so.
We may have the opportunity to enter a tent to drink tea (three glasses!) and zrig, fresh or soured milk mixed with sweetened water.
This is infrequent because, if one knows local customs, it is understood that one does not enter a tent without being invited, especially when the nomads encountered are not family members of the guide and camel herders accompanying us.
Herds of camels, she-camels, and calves are everywhere, as well as goats, sheep, cattle, and donkeys.
During the hot season, even when grazing is lush and green, it is a captivating sight to watch all these animals being watered as they patiently await their turn at the wells or oglats (clusters of wells).
Frequently asked questions
Yes, especially in the southern regions (Brakna, Assaba, Hodh) and the north (Adrâr, Tirris-Zemour). It is important, however, to respect local customs: one does not enter a khaïma tent without being invited. Traveling with a local guide who knows nomadic families greatly facilitates authentic encounters.
The khaïma is the traditional tent of Mauritanian nomads. It can be brown (made from animal wool and hair) or white (canvas). In hot weather or calm conditions, its edges are rolled up to allow air circulation. It is the heart of nomadic life, a place of welcome and sharing tea and zrig.
Depending on the region, Mauritanian nomads raise cattle, sheep, and camels (dromedaries) in the south, and primarily goats and dromedaries in the arid northern regions. Donkeys are also very common. Dromedaries are essential for both transportation and milk production.
Zrig is a traditional Mauritanian beverage made from fresh or soured milk mixed with sweetened water. It is often offered to visitors in the tent, accompanied by traditional tea served in three glasses. It is an important sign of hospitality in Mauritania's nomadic culture.
The cool season (November to February) is ideal for traveling in Mauritania. During the hot season, however, you can witness captivating scenes of herds being watered at wells and oglats (clusters of wells), with animals patiently awaiting their turn in the desert heat.
