Travel landscape in Mauritania
Mauritania flagRoutaya · Country guide

Travel guide to Mauritania

Mauritania is a Saharan country rich in history and culture, featuring spectacular desert landscapes, oases, and a welcoming population. Perfect for adventure and culture enthusiasts.

Photo by Ben Khatry · Pexels

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ELEVATION PROFILE

Altitude 580 m

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Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.

Quick facts

Official languages
Arabic
Time zones
UTC+0
Electrical outlets
220 V, 50 Hz. Common plug types are C, E, and F.
Climate
Arid desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. Very little rainfall.

Health

Consult a healthcare professional before travel. Carry a personal first aid kit and medications.

Travel health advice

  • Drink only bottled water.
  • Avoid raw or undercooked foods.
  • Protect against sunburn and dehydration.

Recommended vaccines: Typhoid; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Meningitis

Required vaccines: Yellow fever (if arriving from risk zones)

Money

Currency: Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU)

It is advisable to exchange money into dirhams or euros before arrival and use official exchange offices.

Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities; ATM withdrawals can be limited.

Safety

Security conditions may vary; check local authorities and official advice.

  • Avoid night travel in isolated areas.
  • Do not leave personal belongings unattended.
  • Respect local customs.
  • Be cautious near border zones.

Areas to check before travel: Border areas with Mali and Western Sahara; Remote northeastern regions

Regions

Nouakchott — travel guide
Region

Nouakchott

Capital and largest city, political and economic center of the country.

Adrar — travel guide
Region

Adrar

Mountainous region known for its oases and ancient ksour.

Trarza — travel guide
Region

Trarza

Coastal area with port towns and significant agriculture.

Hodh El Gharbi — travel guide
Region

Hodh El Gharbi

Eastern Saharan region with desert and pastoral areas.

Tagant — travel guide
Region

Tagant

Desert plateau famous for rocky landscapes and historical sites.

Gorgol — travel guide
Region

Gorgol

Agricultural region in the south along the Senegal River.

Cities

Nouakchott — city guide
City guide

Nouakchott

Bustling urban center with markets, restaurants, and cultural life.

  • Fishing port
  • Fish market
  • Nouakchott beach
Atar — city guide
City guide

Atar

City in Adrar, gateway to the desert and nomadic explorations.

  • Local market
  • Atar Kasbah
  • Starting point for Adrar dunes tours
Chinguetti — city guide
City guide

Chinguetti

Historic and sacred city known for ancient libraries.

  • Ancient libraries
  • Chinguetti mosque
  • Traditional cemetery
Tidjikja — city guide
City guide

Tidjikja

Town in Tagant, famous for pastoral traditions.

  • Traditional architecture
  • Artisan markets
  • Local festivals
Rosso — city guide
City guide

Rosso

Border town on Senegal River, important for trade.

  • River market
  • Regional museum
  • Riverfront walks
Nouadhibou — city guide
City guide

Nouadhibou

Second largest city, major industrial and port hub.

  • Fishing port
  • Train graveyard
  • Beach and marine activities

Highlights

Chinguetti — travel guide
Must-see

Chinguetti

Ancient caravan city listed as UNESCO World Heritage site.

Adrar Dunes — travel guide
Must-see

Adrar Dunes

Impressive desert landscapes and high sand dunes to explore.

Terjit Oasis — travel guide
Must-see

Terjit Oasis

Verdant oasis in the heart of the desert for natural refreshment.

Nouakchott Beach — travel guide
Must-see

Nouakchott Beach

Beautiful beach ideal for relaxation and sunset watching.

Banc d'Arguin National Park — travel guide
Must-see

Banc d'Arguin National Park

Protected nature reserve, habitat for many migratory bird species.

Nouakchott Mosque — travel guide
Must-see

Nouakchott Mosque

Modern architecture and spiritual center of the capital.

Nature & other places

Sahara Desert — travel guide
Desert

Sahara Desert

Vast desert offering unique landscapes and trekking experiences.

Terjit Oasis — travel guide
Oasis

Terjit Oasis

Natural water source with palm trees and refreshing swimming spots.

Banc d'Arguin — travel guide
Nature reserve

Banc d'Arguin

Coastal national park rich in marine and bird biodiversity.

Tagant Plateau — travel guide
Plateau

Tagant Plateau

Rocky terrain featuring interesting geological formations.

Adrar Dunes — travel guide
Dunes

Adrar Dunes

Spectacular sand dunes ideal for desert safaris.

Senegal River — travel guide
River

Senegal River

Natural border and fertile area with diverse wildlife.

Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.

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