Mauritania, situated in West Africa, is a land of stark beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the endless sands of the Sahara Desert to the ancient cities steeped in history, there is much to discover in this lesser-known gem of Africa. Drawing from our several months traveling in the country, we put together this travel guide including the things to do in Mauritania to help you make the most of your journey.

Visiting Mauritania might not be high on your list, but if you are looking for an out-of-the-beaten-path country, looking for adventures away from the tourist crowd, you are in for a treat!

In this post, we are first listing the top tourist attractions in Mauritania, but tourism in Mauritania is not developed, so you will have to be ready to explore outside the (few) paved roads to see what the country is about. Then we will cover our personal experience, as well as some practical advice and recommendations.

Feel free to ask us any questions in the comment section!

Best Things to Do in Mauritania

Banc d’Arguin National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including coastal dunes, sandy islands, and bird colonies.

Banc d’Arguin National Park Birdwatching

Chinguetti Mauritania

One of the oldest cities in Mauritania, known for its ancient libraries, mosques, and labyrinthine streets.

Atar Mauritania

A gateway to the Adrar Plateau, offering breathtaking landscapes, including dramatic canyons and towering sand dunes.

Terjit Mauritania

The tranquil Terjit oasis is nestled amidst the desert, where travelers can relax in natural pools surrounded by palm trees.

Ouadane Mauritania

One of the four ancient cities of Mauritania, Ouadane was founded in the 11th century as a stop along the caravan trade routes crossing the Sahara

Richard Structure Mauritania

Also known as the Eye of Africa Mauritania or the Eye of the Sahara Mauritania, the Richart Structure in Mauritania is a giant concentric ridge, a circular shape of 25 miles (40 kilometers) in diameter.
The natural, geological structure has been claimed by some to be the site of Atlantis in Mauritania, a mythy solely based on the concentric form.

Nouadhibou Mauritania

The town is the main stop coming from Morocco going south, and is a great place for a first Mauritanian experience. And if you are into kiteboarding in Mauritania, the Baie des Etoiles is simply stunning!

Nouadhibou Kiteboarding

Nouakchott Mauritania

The capital of Mauritania offers a bustling blend of modernity and tradition, with colorful markets, lively street scenes, and cultural attractions like the National Museum.

Nouakchott Port de Pêche is also a must-see, watching dozens of colorful boats coming back full of fish.

Nouakchott Fishing Market – Port de Peche

Iron Ore Train Mauritania

The Mauritania Train is probably why many travelers ever heard about Mauritania Africa.
One of the longest trains in the world, it carries iron ore from Zouerat mines down to Nouadhibou port. Travelers would jump on the open wagons and spend the night (and day) in the open carriers.

This is not a permitted activity, and the Mauritanian government has recently started taking action to prevent people from accessing the train, sometimes removing unexpected passengers entirely.

Mauritania Itinerary Suggestions

Given that you probably have a week or two for your Mauritania tour, we broke down into possible weekly itineraries. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you might want to book one of these Mauritania tours.

• Week 1: Explore Nouakchott’s markets and museums, then head to Banc d’Arguin National Park for a wildlife safari.
• Week 2: Journey to Chinguetti and explore its ancient libraries and mosques before embarking on a camel trek in the Sahara Desert.
• Week 3: Travel to Atar and embark on excursions to the Adrar Plateau, visiting picturesque villages and scenic landscapes.
• Week 4: Relax at Terjit Oasis, soaking in its natural pools and enjoying the serene surroundings before returning to Nouakchott for departure.

Camel herd in Banc d’Arguin

Our 4-Month Travel in Mauritania

Since we stayed so long in the country, we actually had a different experience than short-time travelers.

• Month 1: We spent our time in Nouadhibou, where Bruno enjoyed kitesurfing in the Baie des Etoiles. On my end, I came down with a heavy case of bronchitis which took me for a visit to the Cuban Hospital!
• Month 2: We headed first to the Banc d’Arguin National Park, our first taste of the Sahara dunes, and for more kiteboarding in Mauritania! We then visited Nouakchott for a few days, before making our way to Atar and exploring the Adrar Plateau.
• Month 3: Gearing towards for the full Sahara experience, we took the pist to Chinguetti and Ouadane, with a stop at the Richat Structure. Coming back from hot desert, we stopped in Terjit for a few nights, taking refreshing dips in the oasis. The Sahara trip impacted Zef the Def, and we got to stay for a month in Atar pending repairs.
• Month 4: Once Zef was back in shape, we booked a camel trek in the Sahara Desert. Since we were already May, the scorching temperatures forced us to do a shorter 3-day trek across the Atar plateau. Then we finally made our way down south, going through Kiffa, stopping at water holes in search of Niles crocodiles. Skirting along the Senegal River, we got to see the transition from the Sahara to the Sahel.

How to Travel to Mauritania

• Air Travel: The main international airport is Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport, serving flights to and from major cities in Africa and Europe.Atar is the second of the two international airports in Mauritania, though is primarily operational during the winter months from November to March.
• Road Travel: Traveling by road is possible, but roads outside major cities may be rough and poorly maintained. Renting a 4WD vehicle is recommended for exploring remote areas.
• Public Transport: Buses and taxis are available for intra-city travel, but schedules can be unpredictable. Shared taxis and bush taxis are common for inter-city travel.

4×4 Driving in the Sahara Desert

About Mauritania History and Culture

Mauritania has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from Berber, Arab, and Sub-Saharan African cultures. Key historical sites include the ancient trading towns of Chinguetti and Ouadane, which were once important stops on trans-Saharan trade routes. The country has a diverse cultural heritage, reflected in its music, dance, cuisine, and traditional crafts.

Traditional lanche fishing boat

Food: Mauritanian cuisine is influenced by its nomadic heritage and diverse cultural traditions. Staple foods include couscous, rice, millet, and dates, often served with meat or fish and flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and ginger. Traditional dishes to try include thieboudienne (fish and rice stew), mechoui (roast lamb), and bissara (split pea soup).

Best Time to Visit Mauritania

One important element to consider before traveling to Mauritania is the season.

The best time to visit Mauritania is during the cooler, drier months from November to March when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, travelers should be prepared for chilly nights in the desert. The summer months from June to September can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F).

Mauritania Facts

Mauritania Visa

• Visa on Arrival Mauritania is VOA – 55 Euros for 30 days
• Renewal is possible for another 55 Euros / 30 days in Nouakchott Airport, Nouadhibou, and Atar (only during the high season from November to March)

Most travelers require a visa to Mauritania in order to enter the country. The duration of stay allowed in Mauritania typically depends on the type of visa issued. Tourist visas often allow stays of up to 30 days. Costs at the land border with Morocco are 55 euros at the time of this blog post.

Visa requirements may vary depending on nationality, and visa-on-arrival (VOA) may be available for certain nationalities. However, it’s advisable to check visa requirements with the nearest Mauritanian diplomatic mission for specific details beforehand to avoid any issues.

One can enter Mauritania either via Land Border or by Air at Mauritania’s main international airport is Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport, located in the capital city, Nouakchott.

Overall, travelers should plan ahead, familiarize themselves with visa requirements and entry procedures, and ensure they have all necessary documentation and funds for their trip to Mauritania, whether arriving by land or air.

Mauritania Currency & ATMs

The official currency in Mauritania is the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU). Travelers should exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange offices, as street vendors may offer unfavorable rates or counterfeit currency. Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities, so carrying cash for purchases is advisable.

ATMs are available in urban centers like Nouakchott, Atar, and Nouadhibou but may be scarce or non-existent in rural areas. Visa cards are better accepted than Master Cards. ATMs often do not work or have cash, so it’s wise to carry enough cash for expenses in areas where ATMs are not readily accessible.

Travel Advice Mauritania

Many people, friends, and family have asked us, “Is Mauritania dangerous?” and “Is Mauritania safe to visit?” Safety is a highly personal feel so we can only talk about our experiences. In the four months we were in the country, we felt safe. Of course, one should always remember to pay attention to the surroundings and be cautious at night and in busy locations. Make sure to check your country’s travel advisories, keep an ear on local news, and discuss with locals to ensure your safety.

Police/Army Checkpoints & “Fiches”

Police/Army/Customs checkpoints are pretty common in Mauritania, but are usually very quick and easy. Have a “fiche” ready for handout and it will be a breeze! A fiche includes the main information about your passport and vehicle. Prepare at minimum 40 copies but double that if you plan on exploring around Atar as well.

Mauritania Security

While we felt safe throughout our stay in Mauritania, and certainly around Nouadhbou, security can be a concern in Mauritania in remote areas and near the borders with Mali and Algeria. Make sure to stay updated on the current security situation through official sources like government travel advisories.

Exploring Mauritania offers a journey of discovery through breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, and vibrant cultures. Whether you’re marveling at the natural beauty of Banc d’Arguin National Park, immersing yourself in the history of Chinguetti, or savoring the flavors of Mauritanian cuisine, there’s something to captivate every traveler. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, your experience in Mauritania is sure to be unforgettable.

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