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Mauritania✨ 10 best things to do in Mauritania

Things to do in Mauritania

1. Ride the iron ore trainBrave a legendary overnight journey across the Sahara aboard one of the world's longest trains.
2. Explore Chinguetti's librariesSee centuries-old Islamic manuscripts preserved by local families.
3. See the Richat StructureVisit the giant circular geological formation known as the 'Eye of the Sahara'.
4. Trek the Adrar dunesJoin a camel caravan through golden dunes and palm oases.
5. Birdwatch at Banc d'ArguinWatch huge flocks of migratory birds in a UNESCO-listed coastal park.
6. Watch fishing boats return in NouakchottSee colourful pirogues unload their catch at the bustling fish market.
7. Explore OuadaneWander the stone ruins of an ancient caravan town.
8. Share Mauritanian teaEnjoy the three-glass tea ritual, each one sweeter than the last.
9. Camp under the starsSleep in the desert under some of the clearest skies on Earth.
10. Relax at Terjit oasisBathe in natural springs in a shady palm grove canyon.

Mauritania🗺️ Where to visit in Mauritania

Where to go in Mauritania

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  ChinguettiAdrar · historic townA UNESCO-listed caravan town and centre of Islamic scholarship.
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  OuadaneAdrar · ancient ksarRuins of a historic trading town on a hillside.
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  Richat StructureAdrar · geological wonderA vast circular rock formation visible from space.
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  AtarAdrar · desert gatewayThe main base for Adrar tours and oasis trips.
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  Banc d'Arguin National ParkAtlantic coast · birdsA UNESCO site of mudflats and islands with millions of migratory birds.
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  NouakchottCapital · coastA young capital with markets, a lively fish beach and the national museum.
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  TerjitAdrar · oasisA hidden palm canyon with natural springs.

Mauritania🌦️ Weather & best time to visit Mauritania

Best time to visit Mauritania

Mauritania is mostly hot desert, with very little rain except in the far south during summer. The Atlantic coast is cooled by sea breezes, while the interior is far hotter.

Typical daytime highs and rain in Nouakchott (approximate averages).

Mauritania🎉 Festivals & events in Mauritania

• Late in the year (varies)
  Festival of the Ancient CitiesRotates among Chinguetti, Ouadane, Tichitt and Oualata, celebrating heritage with music and poetry.
• November 28
  Independence DayCelebrations mark independence from France.
• Varies (Islamic calendar)
  Eid al-FitrFestive meals and gatherings at the end of Ramadan.
• Varies (Islamic calendar)
  Eid al-AdhaFamilies share meals at the Feast of Sacrifice.

Mauritania🧭 Mauritania itinerary ideas

How many days in Mauritania?

Mauritania🎒 Backpacking Mauritania – tips & hacks

Backpacker budget: about $35–55 a day

• Bush taxis link towns cheaply but can be crowded.
• Riding on top of the iron ore wagons has traditionally cost nothing but is tough – bring goggles, scarves and warm layers.
• Simple auberges in Atar and Chinguetti offer budget stays.
• Speak some French or Hassaniya Arabic for easier travel.
• Eat thieboudienne (fish and rice) at local spots for cheap filling meals.

Mauritania🛡️ Safety & money in Mauritania

Emergency: 17 police · 18 fire

Mauritania🛬 Getting to Mauritania

Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport is the main gateway, with flights from North and West Africa, Europe and the Middle East. Land borders with Morocco (via Western Sahara) and Senegal are used by overland travellers.

✈️ Cheap flights to Mauritania: airports, flight times & best time to fly →

Mauritania💡 Did you know? 5 facts about Mauritania

• Mauritania's iron ore trains are among the longest and heaviest in the world.
• The Richat Structure is around 40 km wide.
• Chinguetti was a traditional gathering point for West African pilgrims setting off for Mecca.
• Mauritania is one of the least densely populated countries in Africa.
• Its currency, the ouguiya, is divided into five khoums rather than tens or hundreds.

Mauritania❓ Mauritania travel FAQ

Mauritania travel questions