The heart of the Sahara lies near two valleys. Or in other words: Richat Structure is only 30 km away from Ouadane. Guelb (from Arabic qalb: heart, center) is the Saharan name for an inselberg, an elevation in the middle of flat land. The Richat Structure is a ring mound of sedimentary rock measuring 45 km in diameter. Its rings are only a few dozen meters high, but are visible even from space. Therefore, the guilb is also used by astronauts as a landing marker. The rings were formed by deposition, superposition and consolidation of differently composed loose masses. The origin of the Richat Structure is not yet completely clarified. For a long time the theory prevailed that the structure was formed by a meteorite impact. Some researchers are also of the opinion that a volcanic eruption was the cause of the stone ring walls. It remains scientifically exciting. There are good reasons to visit the Ringwalls, after all, the rocky, rugged landscape with its concentric rings is quite unique in the world. Drone enthusiasts will get their money's worth, although it is quite windy here. But what else is stabilization in video post-production for? By the way, even the journey to Guelb is exciting, after all, it's 4x4 over sandy tracks for more than an hour.
Did you know? Very close to Guilb er Richat are the remains of the former Portuguese fort of Agouedir (also: Aghouedir). Built in the 15th century, it represented, along with the fort of Arguin, the only Portuguese possession in the territory of present-day Mauritania. The short detour to the western edge of the Richat structure is worthwhile for the handcrafted artifacts offered there alone.
The Guilb er Richat is embedded in various tours that lead into the Adrar. In principle, we always recommend combining a visit to Ouadane with the Guilb, as this is an entertaining trip with a worthwhile natural destination.
To get an impression of the breathtaking landscape, we recommend this video:
