- Attractions in Mauritania
Nouakchott
Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, uniquely stands as one of the largest cities in the Sahara, featuring attractions like the National Museum, bustling markets, and a beach where fresh fish is sold directly from fishing boats.
Nouakchott Chinguetti
Chinguetti, nestled in Mauritania's Sahara, boasts the ancient Islamic center and UNESCO site, with its unique Saharan architecture and the second oldest minaret, amidst picturesque sand dunes.
Chinguetti Banc d'Arguin National Park
Banc d'Arguin National Park, located on Mauritania's coast, is a mesmerizing World Heritage Site renowned for being a crucial habitat for migratory and breeding birds such as flamingos and pelicans, hosting the largest colonies of water birds in West Africa.
Banc d'Arguin National Park Richat Structure
The Richat Structure in Mauritania, known as the "Eye of the Sahara," is a 40 km wide circular geological anomaly with concentric rings, resulting from eroded dome structures and hosting significant Paleolithic artifacts.
Richat Structure Ouadane
Ouadane, located in Mauritania's desert, is a historic trade post near the visually stunning Richat Structure, boasting ruins of its World Heritage Site old town.
Ouadane Terjit
Terjit oasis in Mauritania offers a refreshing retreat in a palm-filled gorge near Atar, boasting fresh water, shade, and a history of hosting royal ceremonies.
Terjit Tichit
Tichit, located in central southern Mauritania, is renowned for its unique vernacular architecture and the nearby Dhar Tichitt archaeological sites, with a focus on date farming and a small museum dedicated to its heritage.
Tichit Diawling National Park
Diawling National Park in southwest Mauritania, established in 1991 near the Senegal River delta, boasts over 220 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans, on its 16,000 hectares, highlighting a rich biodiversity within its once floodplain landscape.
Diawling National Park Atar
Atar, located in northwestern Mauritania, serves as the gateway to the ancient Moorish cities of Ouadane and Chinguetti and was a prominent stop in the Paris Dakar Rally.
Atar Néma
Néma in southeastern Mauritania is a cultural hub near the Mali border, celebrated for its market quartiers and the terminus of "The Road of Hope" from the capital, reflecting Mauritania's nomadic heritage.
Néma - Nouakchott
- City/Town
- Mauritania 48 hours
- Chinguetti
- 4.8
- City/Town
- Mauritania 48 hours
- Arguin
- 4.8
- Natural Scenery
- Mauritania 8 hours
- Eye of the Sahara
- 5
- Natural Scenery
- Mauritania 8 hours
- Ouadane
- City/Town
- Mauritania 24 hours
- Terjit
- City/Town
- Mauritania 8 hours
- Tichit
- City/Town
- Mauritania 24 hours
- Diawling
- 4
- Natural Scenery
- Mauritania 8 hours
- Atar
- City/Town
- Mauritania 24 hours
- Néma
- City/Town
- Mauritania 8 hours
- Language
- Mauritania's linguistic landscape is diverse, with Arabic as the official language and widely spoken by the majority of the population. The local dialect, Hassaniya Arabic, reflects the country's cultural heritage. In addition to Arabic, French is commonly used in administration, education, and business due to the country's colonial history. While English is increasingly being taught in schools and is gaining popularity, particularly among younger generations and in urban areas, it is not as widely spoken.
- Best time to visit
- The best time to visit Mauritania is during the cooler months, from November to February, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring the country's vast deserts and historical sites. During this period, daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, this is the dry season, minimizing the chances of rain and allowing for clearer skies and better visibility.
- Packing
When visiting Mauritania, lightweight, breathable clothing is crucial for the hot daytime temperatures, with long sleeves and pants recommended to protect against the sun and insects. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help shield you from the intense sun. Sturdy walking shoes are ideal for exploring diverse terrains, while a pair of sandals can offer comfort in more relaxed settings. Don't forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, along with a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications. Lastly, a light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings, particularly in the desert.
- Currency
In Mauritania, the official currency is the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU). The currency is available in both coins and banknotes, with denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 ouguiyas. ATMs are available in major cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, but they may not always accept foreign cards, so it's advisable to carry cash. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses, but cash remains the preferred method of payment, especially in rural areas and local markets. Travelers should plan accordingly and exchange some currency before their arrival for convenience.
- Transport
Mauritania's main international gateway is Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC), located about 25 km from the capital, Nouakchott. For in-country travel, visitors can choose from buses, shared taxis (known as "sept-place" for their seven-passenger capacity), and rental cars, with the latter being ideal for exploring remote areas. Although the road conditions can vary, major routes are generally accessible. It's advisable to book transport in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, and to negotiate fares upfront for shared taxis. For a more authentic experience, consider using local buses, but be prepared for potential delays and crowded conditions.
- Emergency
When traveling to Mauritania, it's essential to be aware of cultural taboos, particularly regarding dress and public behavior. Modesty is highly valued, so both men and women should dress conservatively, with women often required to cover their arms and legs. Additionally, public displays of affection and open discussions about religion or politics can be considered disrespectful. As for emergencies, the local emergency number is 18 for police, 15 for medical emergencies, and 17 for fire services.
- Power socket
In Mauritania, the standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. The country predominantly uses Type C and Type E power sockets, which feature two round pins.