A donkey is loaded onto a train filled with iron ore in the West African country of Mauritania. Photographer George Popescu rode the train last fall -- a 40-hour round-trip journey through the Sahara desert.
George Popescu
A truck transports iron ore at a mine in Zouérat, Mauritania.
George Popescu
Nonticketed passengers ride the train on top of iron ore. It's free for them to do so, but they have to endure dust, sun and high temperatures.
George Popescu
Ghassem, a train mechanic, poses for a portrait in his Jim Morrison shirt.
George Popescu
A child sits on luggage as he waits to board a passenger car.
George Popescu
Wagons are loaded with livestock before the start of a journey.
George Popescu
A passenger looks outside at the end of a 20-hour trip from Zouérat to Nouadhibou.
George Popescu
A child looks at his camera while his companions rest in the coach kitchen area.
George Popescu
Two young sisters pose for a portrait during their travels.
George Popescu
Cars wait on the outskirts of Zouérat to pick up passengers after the train ride.
George Popescu
People exit the train after arriving at the Nouadhibou harbor.
