Mauritania
Travel in Mauritania centers on the Sahara, typically starting in Nouakchott and heading toward the desert. It isn't a mainstream destination, so information is limited.
- Currency
- MRU
Mauritania currency guide — today's rate & payment tips
Visa and entry rules change often. Check your government's travel advisory or the local embassy before you go.
Average temperature by month
Based on Nouakchott · 5-year average
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Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Nouakchott
Nouakchott is the capital of Mauritania and the largest city in the Sahara Desert. True to its name, meaning "place of strong winds," it offers scenery distinctive of the desert.
8 sights 9 guides Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC)
Nouadhibou
Nouadhibou sits on a peninsula in western Mauritania and is the country's second-largest city after the capital, Nouakchott. Fishing thrives here, and the city also serves as the terminus of the railway that carries iron ore.
1 sight 9 guides Nouadhibou International Airport (NDB)
Top sights in Mauritania
Museums & galleries
National Museum of Mauritania
The National Museum of Mauritania is located in downtown Nouakchott, close to landmarks such as the city hall and mosque. It's a convenient stop to include on a walk around the city center.
Temples & religious sites
Ibn Abbas Mosque
This mosque stands between the Viande Market and Capital Market in Nouakchott. It's not far from Saudique Mosque, making the two easy to visit together.
Temples & religious sites
Mosque Marocaine
This Sunni mosque stands in central Nouakchott, Mauritania, near the Moroccan Market and the Moroccan Cultural Center, making it easy to visit together. It offers a close look at local religious life.
Temples & religious sites
Saudi Mosque
The Saudi Mosque is a Sunni mosque located southwest of the presidential palace in Nouakchott. Though modest in scale, it offers a close look at Islamic architectural style.
Temples & religious sites
Friday Mosque of Nouakchott
The Friday Mosque is a Sunni Muslim mosque in central Nouakchott, near the Palace of Justice. It's a convenient stop while exploring the city, offering a glimpse of Islamic architecture and atmosphere.
Temples & religious sites
Mosque Tevragh Zeina
This Sunni mosque is located in the Tevragh-Zeina district of Nouakchott, southeast of the Olympic Stadium. It offers a good opportunity to view Islamic architecture up close.
Shopping & districts
Fish Market
This fish market sits on the coast west of Nouakchott, about 5 km from the city center. It's frequented by traditional fishing boats, offering a close-up view of local fishing life.
Temples & religious sites
Saint Joseph Cathedral, Nouakchott
Saint Joseph Cathedral is a Catholic church in Nouakchott, a rare example of religious architecture in Mauritania. It's a nice place for a brief stop to take in the quiet atmosphere.
Visit stories: Mauritania
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Local data
Get an eSIM for Mauritania before you go
Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.
Yesim
Saily
Drimsim
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