Africa
Mauritania
Almost no leisure travel. Most of the country is advised against; the usual trip is Nouakchott, Atar and the Adrar oases, or the iron-ore train. Kidnap and border risks make independent travel hard.
- US travel advisoryLevel 3Reconsider travelDetails
- Visa8 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyMRUUS$1 ≈ UM39.96Details
- Price level31%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English1/5Rare
- PlugsType C, E220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency17Police 17 · Ambulance 101 · Fire 118
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedNo scene; discretion is essential and homophobia is widespread.Details
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences are rarely honoured; hire a local driver. Off-road desert routes need a guide and permission.
Where to go in Mauritania
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NouakchottCapital city | 3/5 | $500–876 | Nov–Mar | 83/100 |
When to visit Mauritania
November to February is coolest. Summer reaches 45 C inland; the rainy season in the south is July-September.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa is required for most nationalities and is issued on arrival at Nouakchott airport or in advance; check current rules.
- Adrar and desert trips normally need a local agency and sometimes a police escort.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be requested on arrival.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Alcohol is banned for Muslims and hard to find; do not bring it in.
- Photographing police, military sites or airports leads to detention.
- Same-sex relations are punishable by death.
Etiquette
- Greet with right hand; avoid public affection.
- Dress modestly and avoid alcohol in public.
- Ask before photographing people.
Tipping
Small tips of 5-10% in restaurants are appreciated.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.