Mauritania Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Mauritania? Main activities and attractions

Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Mauritania’s most iconic historical cities, once a key stop on ancient caravan routes. Known for its centuries-old libraries and desert architecture, Chinguetti is a must-see for history lovers. Nearby, the town of Ouadane offers equally fascinating ruins and stone-built houses. In the capital Nouakchott, the National Museum offers insight into the country’s ethnographic history, and the Port de Pêche offers a slice of local life as colorful pirogues land their daily catch. In Atar, historic sites blend with thriving markets, where traditional life continues at its own pace.

The Adrar Plateau offers dramatic escarpments and ochre canyons, ideal for desert treks and off-road excursions. The Banc d’Arguin National Park, a UNESCO site along the Atlantic coast, is a critical haven for migratory birds and marine turtles. Outdoor experiences include 4×4 desert safaris, camel caravans, and wild camping under the stars. Culinary highlights include mutton-based dishes like mechoui, sweet mint tea rituals, and couscous variations. A travel to Mauritania invites complete immersion into peaceful desert silence and nomadic tradition.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Mauritania

Beyond the classic highlights, Mauritania offers unexpected treasures to those willing to venture off the main path. In the remote Richat Structure, also known as the “Eye of the Sahara”, travelers can witness a geological formation so large it’s visible from space. Located near Ouadane, it offers otherworldly hiking opportunities amid symmetrical rock rings. In the village of Terjit, nested in a desert canyon south of Atar, natural date palm oasis pools await in complete solitude. The hot spring and shaded retreat has long served as a spiritual resting point for nomads and makes an ideal overnight stop. Another little-known gem is Tichit, perched south of the Tagant Plateau. With centuries-old stone houses and coral-filled walls, this ancient town evokes lost desert civilizations. Few travelers ever reach it, offering a rare glimpse into authentic Sahelian architecture. Daring travelers may wish to experience the famous iron ore train, one of the longest in the world. **Riding the open freight car across the desert from Zouérat to Nouadhibou offers an extreme thrill and unparalleled isolation**. Exploring these parts of Mauritania broadens perspective on how geography and tradition shape the country, rewarding those who seek raw, unscripted adventure.

When to visit Mauritania? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Mauritania

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, UK, and US citizens need a visa to enter Mauritania. Tourist visas are generally issued upon arrival at Nouakchott airport or at Mauritanian embassies abroad. To apply, you will need a passport valid for at least 6 months and recent passport-size photos. Visas typically allow a 30-day stay, renewable locally.

🚗 Driving rules

Driving is on the right side of the road. An international driving license is required and should be accompanied by your national one. Roads outside cities can be sandy or poorly maintained. 4WD vehicles are highly recommended for the desert regions. Be cautious with checkpoints and always carry ID.

🔌 Electricity

Standard voltage is 220V with European type C and E sockets. Frequency is 50 Hz. If you come from the UK or US, an adapter is necessary. Power cuts can occur, especially outside major cities.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Major operators include Mauritel, Mattel, and Chinguitel. Coverage is generally good in cities but sparse in remote areas. Buying a local SIM card is inexpensive and requires your passport. Data is affordable but speeds vary.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Southern and border regions with Mali are not recommended due to occasional instability. The north is fairly safe but remote. Avoid traveling alone across deserts without guides or preparation. Police or gendarme checkpoints are common. Useful numbers: Police (17), Medical emergency (118).

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Photography of military buildings, police, and government sites is forbidden. Drugs and alcohol are restricted—alcohol is largely unavailable and its import is prohibited. Drones are also banned unless formal approval is obtained.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Greetings are formal; shaking hands is common, especially among men. Avoid public displays of affection and dress modestly, particularly outside cities. Always ask before taking photographs of people. Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Islam is the state religion and observed widely. Non-Muslims are welcome but should behave respectfully around prayer times and avoid mosques unless invited. During Ramadan, public eating and drinking during the day is discouraged. Religious holidays affect business hours and public services.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Mauritania, Mauritania National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025