Things To Do
in Mauritania
Mauritania is a vast country in West Africa, characterized by its blend of desert and coastal landscapes, including parts of the Sahara Desert and Atlantic coastline. It has a rich history that includes ancient Saharan trade routes and cities, alongside a diverse cultural heritage that reflects Arab and African influences.
Economically, Mauritania relies heavily on mining (especially iron ore), agriculture, and fishing, but faces challenges such as desertification and economic disparity.
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Na'm" - Yes
- "La" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nouakchott fish market to witness the bustling activity as local fishermen sell their catch. Enjoy a traditional Mauritanian breakfast nearby at a local café.
Visit the National Museum of Mauritania to learn about the country's rich history and culture. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Corniche to enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Dine at a seaside restaurant and savor fresh seafood dishes. End the night by experiencing the vibrant local nightlife.
Depart early for a guided tour into the Sahara Desert, stopping to admire breathtaking sand dunes. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by the stunning desert landscape.
Engage in activities like camel riding and sandboarding to make the most of your desert adventure. Capture stunning photographs of the unique flora and fauna in the area.
Settle down for a traditional Berber dinner under the stars, enjoying local music and stories. Spend the night in a comfortable desert camp.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnicity, with a mix of Arab, Berber, and African influences.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Sahara Desert and coastal areas along the Atlantic Ocean.
- Strategic location for trade between Africa and Europe, with potential for economic development.
- Abundant natural resources, including iron ore and fish, which could contribute to economic growth.
- A growing tourism sector that attracts visitors to historical sites, national parks, and traditional festivals.
- Political instability and a history of coups which can lead to uncertainty for residents and investors.
- Limited infrastructure development, particularly in rural areas, affecting transportation and access to services.
- Challenges in education and healthcare systems, leading to low literacy rates and health issues among the population.
- Environmental challenges, such as desertification and water scarcity, impacting agriculture and livelihoods.
- Human rights concerns, including issues related to freedom of expression, press, and minority rights.
Best Activities in Mauritania
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience camping in the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert for a unique outdoor adventure.
Enjoy the thrill of gliding down sand dunes on a sandboard, a popular activity in Mauritania's desert regions.
Explore the scenic coastal areas and lagoons for a chance to engage in fishing, a popular pastime in Mauritania.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mauritania with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mauritania
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring diverse landscapes, including coastal dunes and bird sanctuaries, offering stunning views and ample photo opportunities.
Known for its dramatic cliffs, canyons, and rock formations, providing breathtaking views and excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
An ancient desert town with its distinctive mosque and sand dunes, offering a unique and picturesque setting for photography enthusiasts.
A prominent mountain peak with panoramic views of the surrounding desert and plains, providing an ideal location for capturing stunning landscape photographs.
Food in Mauritania
Mauritania Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Mauritanian dish consisting of fish cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce served with rice. Best enjoyed at local family-run restaurants or food stalls in market areas.
Must-Try!
A meat and vegetable stew cooked in a peanut butter sauce and served with rice. This dish can be found at local eateries and street food vendors.
Mauritanian couscous is often prepared with a variety of meats, vegetables, and fragrant spices. It is widely available at restaurants and small eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mauritania better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and spices. Visitors can indulge in local street food specialties such as grilled meats, couscous, and pastries.
The fish port is a hub for freshly caught seafood. Visitors can enjoy grilled fish straight from the boats, served with a side of rice and salad.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mauritania, it is important to show respect for elders and authority figures. This can be demonstrated through greeting them with the appropriate formalities and showing deference in conversation and interaction.
The Mauritanian culture is heavily influenced by Islamic values, and it is important to be mindful of and respectful towards Islamic customs and practices. This includes dress codes, dietary restrictions, and observing prayer times.
Hospitality is highly valued in Mauritania, and guests are often welcomed with warmth and generosity. It is important to reciprocate this hospitality with gratitude and respect for the host's customs and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mauritania with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mauritania
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a widespread custom in Mauritania, and it is not expected in most situations. In some tourist areas or high-end establishments, a small tip may be appreciated, but it is not mandatory.
In Mauritania, cash is the primary form of payment, especially outside of major urban areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Nouakchott and other cities, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for day-to-day transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mauritania.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Mauritania, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the Sahara desert.
Moderate temperatures with occasional sandstorms. Good for birdwatching as migratory birds pass through the country.
Hot and dry weather, with temperatures soaring. Not recommended for outdoor activities due to extreme heat.
Temperatures begin to cool down, making it more comfortable for outdoor excursions. Can experience occasional rain showers.
Mauritania at Night
Hiking in Mauritania
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, it features unique landscapes and coastal trails with opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the diverse wildlife.
Known for its stunning mountainous terrain, the Adrar region offers hiking trails through rocky landscapes and traditional Saharan villages.
This area features dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations with various trails that provide fantastic views of the surrounding desert.
A historic town with ancient ruins and nearby hiking opportunities through the rugged terrain of the Sahara.
Famous for its picturesque rock formations and stunning views, Tergit offers a unique hiking experience in the heart of the desert.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mauritania through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Mauritania by plane.
The main international airport serving the capital city of Nouakchott, located approximately 25 km northeast of the city.
Located in Mali's capital, Bamako, this airport is about 1,200 km southeast of Nouakchott.
Situated about 50 km from Dakar, Senegal, it serves as the major international gateway for Senegal, approximately 500 km from Nouakchott.
Located in Lungi, Sierra Leone, this airport is around 1,350 km from Mauritania.
Located in Gran Canaria, Spain, this airport is approximately 1,400 km from the northern coast of Mauritania.
In Cotonou, Benin, this airport is about 2,600 km from Mauritania.
Located in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, this airport is approximately 2,200 km from Mauritania.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Mauritania, constituting around 30% of the population. They are primarily Arabic-speaking and are also known as Beydanes.
Comprising around 40% of the population, this group includes various ethnicities such as the Soninke, Wolof, and Pulaar.
An ethnic group that primarily inhabits the southeastern regions of Mauritania, known for their rich culture and historical significance in trade.
Predominantly located in the coastal areas, the Wolof people are known for their distinct language and cultural practices.
A group that is part of the larger Fulani ethnicity, mainly residing in the central and southern parts of Mauritania.
Referring to the descendants of enslaved black Africans who integrated into Mauritanian society, primarily among the Moorish population.
A small ethnic group found mainly in the coastal regions, known for their fishing traditions and vibrant culture.
The Soul of Mauritania
Discover the essence of Mauritania through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mauritania, with a passionate following and local clubs participating in national and regional competitions.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in Mauritania, especially during school competitions and regional championships.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, particularly among the youth, with various local teams and tournaments.
Handball is played in schools and community centers, gaining traction as a competitive sport in the country.
Traditional wrestling remains a culturally significant sport in Mauritania, often associated with festivals and local celebrations.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Mauritanian cuisine is meat-centric, vegetarian options like lentil soups, couscous with vegetables, and rice dishes are available at many local eateries. Some international restaurants in urban areas also cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.
Rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and fresh seafood can be safe choices for individuals with gluten sensitivities. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out to ensure suitable options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mauritania with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mauritania.