Néma is the capital of the Hodh Ech Chargui region, the eastern basin named after the Aoukar depression. The city in the far southeast of Mauritania has a population of 20,000, an airfield, and is the terminus of the Route de l'Espoir, which starts in Nouakchott and runs once across Mauritania's south. Néma also represents the gateway to Mali. From Oualata to Néma it is about 80 km, for which you have to calculate 4 hours offroad. Néma is the first place where there is a gas station after hundreds of kilometers. So the town gives us the opportunity to refill our tank and supplies - the city´s exploration is of course also included in the program. From Néma we continue towards Timbédra, where there is the best opportunity for a side trip to the historic Koumbi Saleh. If you like.
