Monolith of Ben Amera, Atar

Wow! The second largest monolith in the world is very well hidden right on the border with Western Sahara. An incredible place surrounded by listless desert. And well yes, it is indeed a huge piece of rock. We tried to climb it but it was slippery at the end so we turned back. It was great experience though. A place not be missed.

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 to visitors.