Things To Do
in Nouakchott
Nouakchott is the capital and largest city of Mauritania, lying on the Atlantic coast of the Sahara. Despite its desert surroundings, it serves as the heart of the country's economy and culture, housing significant administrative and government offices, as well as markets teeming with vibrant life.
Over the years, the city has experienced rapid growth, transforming from a small coastal village into a bustling metropolitan area that showcases a unique blend of traditional and modern Mauritanian lifestyles.
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Na'm" - Yes
- "La" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along Nouakchott's beautiful beaches, enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. Watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch as the sun rises over the Atlantic.
Visit the local market to sample fresh seafood and local delicacies for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or swimming in the warm waters.
Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Mauritanian dishes. End your day with a calm walk along the shore as the sun sets.
Visit the National Museum of Mauritania to learn about the country’s rich history and culture. Explore its exhibits that showcase traditional artifacts and contemporary art.
Stop by the vibrant stalls of the Port de Nouakchott market for lunch and to shop for handicrafts. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts.
Attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, offering a unique experience for visitors.
- Strategic location as a gateway between Africa and Europe.
- Growing economy with potential opportunities in sectors like fishing, mining, and renewable energy.
- Warm climate with plenty of sunshine year-round.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including nearby beaches and the Sahara Desert.
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to more developed cities.
- Challenges with healthcare and education facilities.
- High levels of unemployment and underemployment.
- Safety concerns related to crime and civil instability.
- Environmental issues such as desertification and water scarcity.
Best Activities in Nouakchott
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the port and witness local fishermen bringing in their catch.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach and soak in the coastal views.
Discover the unique landscape and wildlife in this coastal wetland area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nouakchott with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nouakchott
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful beach with a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean and great photo opportunities during sunset.
Scenic area with fishing boats and traditional wooden pirogues, offering a unique and picturesque backdrop for photos.
Iconic mosque with a striking design, providing a great photo opportunity and a beautiful view of the city.
Food in Nouakchott
Nouakchott Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous Mauritanian dish featuring fish, rice, and vegetables flavored with a variety of spices. It's often considered the national dish and is a must-try for visitors. Best enjoyed at local eateries or family-run restaurants.
Must-Try!
A popular drink in Mauritania, Maghrebi mint tea is a blend of green tea, mint leaves, and sugar, creating a refreshing and aromatic beverage. It's readily available in cafes and households across Nouakchott.
Choumicha is a hearty meat and vegetable stew often prepared with lamb or camel meat, infused with traditional spices and herbs. Look for it at traditional Mauritanian restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nouakchott better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Nouakchott, Marché Capitale offers a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local ingredients. Visitors can also find vendors selling traditional street food such as grilled meat skewers and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to show respect for Islamic customs, such as modesty in dress and behavior, and being aware of prayer times.
Greetings are an important part of Mauritanian culture, and hospitality is highly valued. It's customary to greet people with warmth and show appreciation for hospitality when visiting someone's home.
In Mauritanian society, there are specific gender roles and expectations. It's important to be aware of and respect these roles, particularly in social and family interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nouakchott with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nouakchott
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nouakchott, tipping is not a common practice. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or from a tour guide, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Nouakchott, Mauritania. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's important to carry enough cash for daily expenses, including meals and transportation.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nouakchott.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Nouakchott, Mauritania is during the dry season from November to February, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.
During the rainy season from March to October, Nouakchott experiences hot and humid weather with occasional heavy rainfall. Travelers should be prepared for higher temperatures and wetter conditions during this time.
Nouakchott at Night
Hiking in Nouakchott
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located south of Nouakchott, known for its diverse flora and fauna, providing opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.
A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique coastal landscape with various hiking trails through its wetlands and beaches.
An ancient village with hiking opportunities through historical ruins and scenic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Located further inland, it offers hiking trails with spectacular vistas and is near the historic town of Chinguetti, famous for its old libraries.
Although a bit farther from Nouakchott, the Adrar region offers stunning desert landscapes, canyons, and rock formations that are perfect for adventurous hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nouakchott through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nouakchott by plane.
The main international airport serving Nouakchott, Mauritania, located about 25 kilometers northeast of the city.
Located in Bamako, Mali, this is the main international airport of Mali, approximately 1,200 km from Nouakchott.
Situated in Dakar, Senegal, about 500 km from Nouakchott, it serves as a major gateway to West Africa.
Located in Nouadhibou, Mauritania, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, situated about 450 km from Nouakchott.
Located in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, approximately 1,900 km from Nouakchott. It's one of West Africa's largest airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Mauritania, primarily Arab-Berber, comprising a significant portion of the population in Nouakchott.
Includes various ethnic groups such as the Wolof, Soninke, and Fulani, representing a notable minority in the city.
A nomadic Berber ethnic group, present in Mauritania, with a smaller population in the urban areas of Nouakchott.
A group with roots in sub-Saharan Africa, traditionally associated with servitude, significant in the socio-economic mix of Mauritania.
Includes a diverse group of foreigners living in Nouakchott, such as Western expatriates, peacekeepers, and foreign workers.
The Soul of Nouakchott
Discover the essence of Nouakchott through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Nouakchott, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base. It is widely played and watched across all age groups.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, especially among the youth. There are several local teams and competitions held throughout the year.
Handball is also enjoyed in Nouakchott, with clubs competing in various tournaments. It has a dedicated following.
Athletics, including track and field events, is a common sport for both men and women, with various competitions organized locally and regionally.
Traditional wrestling is significant in Mauritanian culture and is enjoyed both as a competitive sport and a cultural event.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nouakchott.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Mauritanian cuisine often features meat as a central component, some restaurants and cafes in Nouakchott offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as vegetable-based stews, couscous, and salads.
Travelers with gluten intolerances can find a selection of gluten-free dishes, particularly in international restaurants and cafes where pasta, rice, and seafood dishes are prominent.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nouakchott with these cultural adventures.
