The Guelta Metraucha is one of the few places in Mauritania where you can find the rare West African crocodiles. For decades, they were considered extinct in the country, and it was not until 1999 that they were rediscovered. According to estimates, only 300 specimens live in all of Mauritania today. 70 km east of Kiffa is the village of Foum el Cherat, in the immediate vicinity of which Tamourt Bougari becomes a lake and ecosystem every year after the rainy season. 5 km away from it is the Guelta Metraucha. Many gueltas are only filled in the rainy season, but the Guelta Metraucha never runs dry, as it is additionally fed by local springs. This and its rocky environment allow for extensive biodiversity. Besides crocodiles, rodents such as the rare Senegal gundis, klipsheep, jackals and numerous baboons live there. Since the Guelta Metraucha carries water permanently, there are even a few species of fish in it. It is also used as a drinking water reservoir for herds of camels and cattle. A trip to the Tamourt Bougari and the Guelta Metraucha is offered on our two southern tours. The crocodiles are considered to be shy and mostly disappear in the water as soon as people approach. Therefore we recommend to observe the Guelta from a higher rock plateau. It is also possible to camp nearby without any problems.
