Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities require a visa. Apply at a Mauritania embassy before travel or obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Nouakchott airport (processing varies). Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond stay. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended, especially if arriving from endemic countries.
Money & payments
Mauritania uses the Ouguiya (MRU). ATMs in Nouakchott accept major cards but are unreliable elsewhere. Bring USD or EUR cash as backup. Exchange rates are better at banks. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside top hotels in Nouakchott.
SIM cards & internet
SIM cards from Mauritel, Chinguitel, and Maroc Telecom are available at the airport and shops. 4G in Nouakchott only; 2G in other towns. Internet is very slow. Download maps and content before travel. Mobile money (Mauritel Money) exists but cash is the default.
Getting around
Nouakchott taxis are plentiful; negotiate fares. Shared minibuses connect interior towns on rough desert roads. Travel to the Sahara (Atar, Chinguetti, Ouadane) is best via organized tours using 4x4 vehicles. To visit Banc d'Arguin, book through licensed tour operators. Nouakchott airport (NKC) is the main international hub.
Health
Yellow fever, malaria (in south), dengue, and typhoid are present. Vaccinate before arrival (yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A). Begin malaria prophylaxis if visiting the south. Tap water is unsafe; drink bottled water. Medical care is very basic; serious illness requires evacuation.
Language & etiquette
Arabic is official; French is widely understood in towns. Hassaniya, Wolof, and Pulaar are spoken. Learning basic Arabic greetings is appreciated. Always greet before business. Handshakes are common but eating and conducting business are done with the right hand only. Respect for Islam is paramount.
When to go
Dry season (November-March) is best. Temperatures are warm, harmattan winds bring clear skies, and desert travel is most feasible. Hot season (April-June) is extremely hot. Rainy season (July-October) brings rare but intense rains. December-February is coolest and most comfortable for Saharan travel.
Getting there
Nouakchott's Nadi International Airport (NKC) is served by Air Senegal, Royal Air Maroc, and Mauritania Airlines. The coastal road from Senegal follows the Atlantic edge through fishing communities. Overland routes cross the Sahara via mineral-rich towns, though sand conditions are unpredictable and require experienced guides.