Things To Do
in Nouakchott

Fresh Atlantic fish grilled or fried at the port stalls — usually served with rice, spicy sauces and salad; best at the Port de Pêche in the morning or early afternoon.

Must-Try!

Couscous served with lamb, fish or vegetables; roast lamb (méchoui) appears for celebrations or special meals and is widely appreciated.

Camel milk sold fresh or fermented and paired with local dates — a traditional snack and welcome offering among communities in Mauritania.

A sweet, strong green tea served in small glasses through a ceremonial sequence; a key part of social life and hospitality.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips or rounding up at cafés and for taxi drivers is common (a few hundred ouguiya or 5–10% in sit-down tourist restaurants). Tip guides and drivers directly in cash.

Cash (Mauritanian ouguiya — MRU) is king in Nouakchott; ATMs exist but can run out of cash. Credit cards are accepted at few hotels and upscale venues, so carry enough cash for markets, taxis and street food. Euros and CFA francs may be accepted informally in some places, but exchange to ouguiya when possible.

High temperatures and humid spells near the coast; occasional rain or storms during the short rainy season can cause flash flooding — expect hot days and warm nights, and bring sun protection and light clothing.

Cooling temperatures and clearer skies; late autumn often brings pleasant days and good conditions for outdoor excursions and photography.

Mild days and cooler nights, with Harmattan dust sometimes blowing from the Sahara in late winter — bring a light jacket for evenings and eye protection if dust conditions occur.

Warming weather before the peak heat of summer; good time for coastal activities and desert trips but expect rising temperatures toward May.

Short hikes along dunes and beaches just outside the city — easy walks for sunrise/sunset photography and gentle exploration.

Guided walks and boat-based excursions across sandbanks and tidal flats for birdwatching and coastal ecology; often part of organized day trips.

Further afield drives lead to expansive dunes and quiet desert tracks suitable for half-day to full-day hikes with a guide; prepare for heat and limited shade.

Not immediate to Nouakchott but accessible by longer overland travel — these regions offer more substantial desert trekking, rock formations and cultural sites for adventurous travelers.

Ethnic group of Arab-Berber origin who speak Hassaniya Arabic and have a strong cultural presence in urban life and politics.

Often historically linked to pastoral and urban communities, Haratin are an important component of Nouakchott's social fabric.

Communities from southern Mauritania and neighboring countries contributing to the city's diversity, languages and commercial life.

Small international community associated with embassies, NGOs and mining or fishing businesses.

Vegetarian options exist (couscous, rice dishes, salads and bean-based stews) but are more limited; specify 'sans viande' (French) and be aware that vegetable dishes may be cooked with meat broth — ask carefully.

Vegan meals are less common; relying on simple rice, salads and bean stews is possible but confirm cooking methods and ask vendors about butter/ghee or meat stock.

Staples like rice, grilled fish and millet-based porridges are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination in markets/restaurants is possible — bring snacks if you have strict needs.

Drink bottled water, avoid raw salads from unclear sources, and favor busy, well-trafficked vendors; hotel restaurants are safer for those with sensitive stomachs.