Tanouchert Oasis

Tanouchert is a small oasis sitting in the dune country between Chinguetti and Ouadane, a stand of palms and a well with a handful of families working it, reached across sand on the route between the two ksour. It is a stopping point rather than a destination: camel caravans used it and vehicles crossing the erg still do. The dunes come right up to the palms on every side.

What you actually see

• The palm stand - a small grove surrounded entirely by dune.
• The well - the water that makes the oasis possible.
• The dune setting - sand reaching the edge of the trees on all sides.
• The route - a stop on the crossing between Chinguetti and Ouadane.

When to go

November to February is the cool season and the practical window. Summer heat in the erg is extreme. Sand movement changes the track constantly.

Honest expectations

Reaching it means crossing sand with four wheel drive and a guide who knows the route. There are no facilities beyond what a camp brings. The oasis is very small and the visit is brief.

Nearby

Chinguetti is southwest, and Ouadane is northeast.