Nouakchott Mauritania Travel Guide
Most foreign nationals need a visa for Mauritania. Visa upon Arrival (VOA) is an option at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC) for many. Pre-arranged visas from embassies abroad are also possible and recommended for particular nationalities.
For VOA, expect to pay approximately €120 in cash. Be prepared along along with your passport (VALID for at least six months), two passport-sized photos, and a flight itinerary. Immigration includes passport inspection, fingerprinting, and photo capture.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 9 months or older coming from or through Yellow Fever countries considered high-risk. Have this certificate ready on arrival.
Other vaccinations are not mandatory for entry, but several are strongly advised for your well-being. Consult a travel health professional.
High heat from April to October. Heatstroke and dehydration pose health risks.
Stay hydrated. Avoid midday strenuous activity. Wear light, loose clothing. Seek shade. Consider a Hydration pack.
Heatstroke, dehydration.
Dry, dusty winds from the Sahara, cooler months.
Wear a Scarf or mask for face protection. Affects atmospheric quality.
Reduced visibility, respiratory discomfort.
Traveler's diarrhea, typhoid, hepatitis A.
Drink only sealed Bottled water. Eat thoroughly cooked food. Wash hands or use Hand sanitizer.
Illness from contaminated food/water.
The Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRO) the country's currency is. In 2018, it redenominated (1 new MRO = 10 old MRU). Exchange major currencies (USD, EUR) at banks and official exchange offices. ATMs exist but reliability varies. Cash is main for most transactions; credit cards are limited.
Tipping is not standard like in Western countries, but it is always welcomed for good service. Round up bills or leave small amounts (5-10%) in nicer restaurants. For saving money, eat local, use shared taxis, bargain in markets, and walk for shorter distances. Always have small bills.
MRO 10,000 - 20,000 (€25 - €50 / $27 - $55) per day. Basic guesthouse, street food, ride-sharing taxis.
MRO 20,000 - 40,000 (€50 - €100 / $55 - $110) per day. Mid-range hotel, local restaurants, private taxis/tours.
MRO 40,000+ (€100+ / $110+) per day. High-end hotels, fine dining, private car with driver/guides.
MRO 5,000-10,000 (€12-25) per night.
MRO 500-2,000 (€1.2-5).
Consult a travel health professional well prior to your trip to discuss your needs and the latest advice.
Your health and safety in Nouakchott are crucial. Prepare for potential risks and know how to find assistance.
Mauritania is safer in general than some neighboring countries, but crime exists, specifically in urban areas.
Wash hands frequently or use Hand sanitizer.
Drink only sealed bottled water; steer clear of ice. Eat thoroughly cooked food, peel fruits.
Stay hydrated, use High SPF sunscreen, wear hat/sunglasses. Avoid midday sun.
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for certain arrivals.
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised, especially during and following the rainy season (July-September). Discuss options like Malarone with your healthcare provider.
Hospitals and clinics are generally basic; serious conditions may necessitate evacuation. Comprehensive travel coverage with evacuation coverage is highly advised.
Emergency numbers (Police: 17, Fire: 18, Ambulance: 15) exist, but reliability varies. Private transport to a clinic often proves faster for medical emergencies.
Dial 17 for Police assistance. Note reliability may vary.
Dial 15 for medical emergencies. Consider private transport to a clinic for quicker action.
Contact your country''s diplomatic mission in Nouakchott for assistance.
While generally safer than some neighbors, crime is found in urban areas. Be aware.
Nouakchott offers diverse costs.
Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRO). 1 new MRO equals 10 old MRU. Exchange USD/EUR at banks. Cash is main for most transactions.
Budget: €25-50/day. Mid-range: €50-100/day. Luxury: €100+/day. Varies by accommodation, food, transport choices.
Eat local food, use pool taxis. Bargain in markets. Walk shorter distances. Carry small cash denominations.
