Mauritania-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Nouakchott Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC)
  • Obtain a visa on arrival (required for most nationalities, check with the Mauritanian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your hotel in the city center
  • Visit the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in West Africa

Afternoon

  • Explore the Nouakchott Market, where you can find traditional crafts, clothing, and souvenirs
  • Try some local cuisine at one of the many street food stalls or restaurants, such as thieboudienne (a hearty fish dish) or mbaar (meat skewers)

Evening

  • Enjoy a sunset view at the Corniche, a coastal promenade with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean
  • Experience the local music and dance scene at a traditional Mauritanian wedding or festival (if scheduled during your visit)

Transportation:

  • Taxi: widely available, but agree on the fare before departing
  • Bus: regular services connect the airport to the city center

Day 2: Choum and the Coast

Morning

  • Take a bus or taxi to Choum (approximately 1.5 hours), a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and fishing industry
  • Visit the Fish Market, where you can see the daily catch being sold and prepared

Afternoon

  • Relax on one of Choum’s stunning beaches, such as Plage de Choum or Plage de Tichit
  • Take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and marine life (optional)

Evening

  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Choum’s many restaurants
  • Return to Nouakchott in the evening, with the option to stop at other coastal towns along the way

Transportation:

  • Bus: regular services connect Nouakchott to Choum
  • Taxi: available for private hire

Day 3: Atar and the Adrar Region

Morning

  • Take a bus or taxi to Atar (approximately 2 hours), a historic town in the Adrar Region known for its stunning natural beauty
  • Explore the Adrar Mountains, with options for hiking, camel trekking, or simply taking in the breathtaking views

Afternoon

  • Visit the Atar Museum, which showcases the region’s history and culture
  • Stop at the ancient fort of Tichit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (optional)

Evening

  • Return to Nouakchott in the evening, with the option to stop at other towns or natural attractions along the way

Transportation:

  • Bus: regular services connect Nouakchott to Atar
  • Taxi: available for private hire

Things to Know

  • Mauritania is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs
  • Arabic and French are the official languages, but many locals also speak Wolof and other regional languages
  • The local currency is the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRO); credit cards are not widely accepted

Health and Safety

  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about vaccinations and medications required for travel to Mauritania
  • Take necessary precautions against sun exposure, heat exhaustion, and dehydration
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and markets; petty theft can occur

This itinerary provides a sample 3-day trip to Mauritania, but feel free to customize it based on your interests, budget, and travel style. Enjoy your journey!