English 
Spanish 
6 min read
2 comments
Colossal train crosses 700 kilometers of tracks in the pure Sahara desert, transporting people and thousands of tons of iron ore in one of the most dangerous territories on the planet
Imagine a colossal train, traveling through the Sahara desert on an almost endless 700 km rail route, crossing sandstorms, scorching heat and conflict-ridden territories. This is the Mauritania desert train, a railway line that carries tons of iron ore daily and is vital to the economy of an entire country.
More than just transportation, the Mauritania desert train It is a feat of endurance and engineering, an iron giant that has become the only link between remote communities and the outside world. But embarking on this journey means facing extreme dangers that few would dare to challenge.
The dangerous desert train in Mauritania, the most important in the African region
In the heart of the Sahara desert, a gigantic train travels a route of more than 700 kilometers, connecting the iron mines of Zuérate to the port of Nuadibu, on the Atlantic coast of Mauritania. This train, known as the iron ore train ou desert train, in addition to being one of the longest in the world, it is also one of the most crucial for the economy of a country where iron ore is a pillar of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
- APPROVED! Important railway will receive investment of 500 MILLION to be expanded and become one of the main railways in Brazil
- SimpliRoute Calls on Experts to Revolutionize Logistics in National Study 2025
- Trains are back in Brazil! The government is taking its hands out of its pockets and spending millions of dollars to restore a traditional railway complex
- China will invest R$14 billion in the construction of the Intercity Train, connecting São Paulo and Campinas in 1 hour
Since its inauguration in 1963, it has symbolized resistance and vitality in a region marked by harsh climatic conditions and territorial conflicts.
Origin, operation and characteristics of the train
The Mauritania Desert Train was created with a clear purpose: connect the rich iron mines located in Zuérate, a remote town in the desert interior, to the port of Nuadibu, the country's main port. This 704-kilometer route is essential for the export of thousands of tons of iron ore, a resource that drives the economic growth from Mauritania for decades.
Throughout its history, the train has faced several challenges, including the need to reroute its route to avoid areas controlled by the Polisario Front, a Western Sahara liberation movement fighting for the region's independence. Despite these obstacles, the train remains the backbone of transporting mineral resources in the area.
Train has more than 200 wagons carrying up to 84 tons of iron ore each
The Mauritania Desert Train is a true marvel of engineering. With over 200 wagons transporting up to 84 tons of iron ore each, this desert giant has 3 kilometers long. The grandeur of its operation makes it one of the longest and heaviest trains in the world.
Despite its size, the frequency of trips does not follow a fixed schedule, departing only when fully loaded and returning after unloading its cargo at the port. This flexible operation, combined with the extreme desert conditions, makes the journey an unpredictable and challenging experience, both for operators and passengers. few passengers who venture aboard.
Train faces extreme desert conditions: temperatures can exceed 45°C during the day and drop abruptly at night
The operation of the train also faced major challenges, many related to geography and political tensions in the region. One of the biggest obstacles was the need to deviate from the original route after the closing of the Choum tunnel. This closure occurred due to the occupation of the area by Polisario Front. To avoid areas under the control of this group, the route was diverted 5 km, crucial to maintaining the train's operation and, consequently, the export of iron ore, which is fundamental to the Mauritanian economy.
In addition to the political challenges, the train faces extreme conditions of the desert. Temperatures can exceed 45°C during the day and fall abruptly at night, making the journey exhausting for the machine and for the people. The sand storms are another recurring problem, which can hinder visibility and damage the train's operating systems. Even in the face of these adverse conditions, the train continues to be a vital means of transport for the country, operating with a resilience that reflects the harsh reality of the environment in which it operates.
Dangers and risks of travel: one of the most dangerous trains in the world
Traveling on the iron ore train is an adventure that carries with it considerable risks, leading to it being known as one of the most dangerous trains in the world. In addition to the natural dangers of the desert, such as extreme temperatures and sandstorms, passengers need to be prepared for the unpredictability of the journey. The train does not have a fixed schedule, and departures depend on the load and conditions of the day, which can prolong the wait and increase difficulties for travelers.
One of the biggest dangers is the risk of robberies. Throughout its history, the train has been the target of attacks, which adds an extra layer of insecurity for those who venture aboard. Furthermore, the lack of basic amenities, such as toilets in most carriages, and the fact that many passengers ride on top of the ore load, exposed to the elements, make the journey a physically demanding and dangerous experience. For many locals, however, the train is the only affordable transportation option, and they accept these risks in exchange for the mobility it offers.
Impact of the train carrying thousands of tons of iron ore on the economy and society of Mauritania
O iron ore train is a feat of engineering that has become a fundamental pillar of Mauritania's economy. Iron ore, transported from the mines of Zuérate to the port of Nuadibu, represents a very important part of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country. In fact, the export of this resource is one of the main drivers of the Mauritanian economy, providing essential revenue in a country that faces several economic challenges.
A Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM), which operates the train, is one of the largest companies in the country and a source of employment for hundreds of people. Revenues generated by exporting iron ore allow Mauritania to sustain its economy and finance development projects in other areas. However, this dependence on iron ore also exposes Mauritania to fluctuations in international mineral prices, which can affect the country's economic stability. As the exclusive means of transporting this resource to the port, the train plays an irreplaceable role in this economic chain.
In addition to its economic impact, the desert train has a deep connection with local communities, especially with the Bedouins who inhabit the areas near the tracks. These nomadic groups, who traditionally roam the desert, find in the train a source of interaction and coexistence. Some Bedouin camps were established close to the tracks, taking advantage of the proximity of the train to access goods and services that would be inaccessible in the vastness of the Sahara.
In addition, other communities also use it, not only to get around, but also to transport goods and livestock. For them, the train is more than just a means of transport; is a vital link with the rest of the country. Despite the difficulties and dangers associated with travel, the train offers local communities an invaluable connection to the outside world, enabling the movement of goods, culture and people in a region where mobility is a constant challenge.
Good article, curiosities that we who live here could never imagine, it's a shame there are few photos!
Perfect, always bringing news, incredible congratulations!