Mauritania 2 Day Itinerary
Mauritania 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Nouakchott Exploration
Morning
- 9:00 AM - Arrival in Nouakchott: Arrive at Nouakchott International Airport (NKC)
- 10:00 AM - Hotel Check-in: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
- 11:30 AM - Grand Mosque: Visit the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in West Africa
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM - Lunch Break: Enjoy a traditional Mauritanian lunch at a local restaurant
- 2:30 PM - National Museum: Visit the National Museum to learn about Mauritania’s history and culture
- 4:00 PM - Marché de Nouakchott: Explore the bustling market, where you can find everything from handicrafts to fresh produce
Evening
- 7:00 PM - Sunset at the Coast: Watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean at the coastal area of Nouakchott
- 8:30 PM - Dinner: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: Choum and Ouadane
Morning
- 8:00 AM - Departure to Choum: Drive to Choum (approximately 1.5 hours), a historic town known for its ancient architecture
- 10:30 AM - Explore Choum: Wander through the narrow streets of Choum and visit its famous mosque
Afternoon
- 12:30 PM - Lunch Break: Enjoy a picnic lunch in Choum or head back to Nouakchott for lunch
- 2:00 PM - Ouadane: Drive to Ouadane (approximately 1 hour), an ancient city with rich history and stunning architecture
- 4:00 PM - Explore Ouadane: Visit the old town, including its famous mosque and explore the surrounding dunes
Evening
- 6:30 PM - Return to Nouakchott: Drive back to Nouakchott (approximately 2.5 hours)
- 8:30 PM - Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Nouakchott
Things to Know
- Visa Requirements: Citizens of some countries require a visa to enter Mauritania. Check with the Mauritanian embassy or consulate in your country for requirements.
- Language: Arabic, Wolof, and French are widely spoken in Mauritania. English is not as common, but many locals in the tourism industry speak some English.
- Currency: The Mauritanian ouguiya (MRO) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks or currency exchange offices.
- Safety: Take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.
Transportation
- Flights: Nouakchott International Airport (NKC) receives flights from several European and African cities.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Nouakchott. You can also hire a private car and driver for the day.
- Renting a Car: Renting a car is not recommended, as road conditions can be challenging.
Other Tips
- Dress Code: Mauritania is a conservative country, so dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
- Respect Local Culture: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.
- Photography: Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Accommodation
- Hotels: Nouakchott has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Food and Drink
- Traditional Cuisine: Try traditional Mauritanian dishes like thieboudienne (a hearty fish and rice dish) and mafe (peanut stew).
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Enjoy fresh produce at local markets or from street vendors.
- Water: Bottled water is widely available, but it’s a good idea to also bring a refillable water bottle.