Mauritania 6 Day Itinerary

Mauritania Itinerary: 6 Days of Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Nouakchott

  • Arrival: Arrive at Nouakchott International Airport
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Tfeila or Hotel Azalai
  • Explore: Visit the Grand Mosque and the nearby Marché Capitale for a taste of local life
  • Things to know:
    • Mauritania is a Muslim country; dress modestly and respect local customs.
    • Arabic and Wolof are the main languages spoken, but many locals also speak French.

Day 2: Nouakchott to Atar

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (around 3 hours) to Atar, a historic town in the Adrar Region
  • Visit: Explore the ancient medina (old city), including the Grand Mosque and the remains of the French colonial fort
  • Activities:
    • Take a camel ride through the surrounding dunes
    • Visit a traditional Mauritanian village to learn about local culture
  • Things to know:
    • Atar is known for its stunning natural scenery, including sand dunes and rocky outcrops.
    • Be prepared for basic accommodations and limited amenities.

Day 3: Atar

  • Activities:
    • Take a guided hike through the scenic landscapes of the Adrar Region
    • Visit a local market to try traditional Mauritanian cuisine, such as thieboudienne (a rice and fish dish)
  • Things to know:
    • Mauritania is home to several ethnic groups, including the Moors, Wolof, and Soninke.
    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Day 4: Atar to Choum

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (around 5 hours) to Choum, a small town on the coast
  • Visit: Explore the picturesque fishing village and enjoy fresh seafood
  • Activities:
    • Take a boat trip to see dolphins or whales (seasonal)
    • Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset
  • Things to know:
    • Choum is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
    • Be prepared for limited amenities and basic accommodations.

Day 5: Choum

  • Activities:
    • Take a fishing trip with local fishermen
    • Visit a nearby salt mine, an important industry in Mauritania
  • Things to know:
    • Mauritania has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from African, Arab, and European traditions.
    • Be respectful of the local environment and wildlife.

Day 6: Departure

  • Transportation: Return to Nouakchott (around 5 hours) for your departure flight
  • Last-minute shopping: Pick up some souvenirs at a local market or shop
  • Things to know:
    • Mauritania is a cash-based economy, so have some local currency (ouguiya) on hand.
    • Be prepared for long travel times and basic amenities outside of Nouakchott.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of certain countries, including the EU, US, and Canada, need a visa to enter Mauritania.
  • Visas can be obtained at the Mauritanian embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Check with the Mauritanian government’s website for the most up-to-date visa requirements.

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but agree on a price before you start your journey.
  • Buses are a more affordable option, but be prepared for crowded and sometimes uncomfortable conditions.
  • Renting a car is not recommended, as roads can be rough and signage is limited.

Health and Safety

  • Mauritania has a high risk of diseases such as malaria and cholera. Consult your doctor before traveling.
  • Take necessary precautions against sunburn, dehydration, and heat exhaustion.
  • Avoid traveling at night due to poor road conditions and limited lighting.

Other Things to Know

  • Mauritania is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “as-salamu alaykum” (hello) and “shukraan” (thank you).
  • Be prepared for power outages and limited internet access outside of Nouakchott.

Enjoy your trip to Mauritania!