MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Nouakchott

Getting Around Nouakchott

Mauritania

Public Transport Options

A limited public bus system exists, mainly used by locals. Buses often crowd and lack clear route markings, making them less convenient for tourist sightseeing.

Shared taxis (collectivos) are the most practical form of public transportation. They follow fixed routes, picking up and dropping off multiple passengers. This offers quicker travel than buses, though they can also be crowded.

Navigation & Fares

  • No official route maps for shared taxis; routes are locally known by landmarks.
  • Shared taxi fares fixed for routes (MRO 200-500/person for short distances).
  • Shared taxis run from early morning (6 AM) to late evening (9-10 PM).
  • Confirm fares before boarding. Carry small denominations of MRO.

Important Hubs

Major intersections, busy markets (Grand Marché), and bus stations serve as informal hubs for shared taxis.

Accessibility

Public transportation is not accessible for travelers with mobility challenges. Vehicles lack ramps or space for wheelchairs.

Navigation Tips

Know destination names or landmarks. Ask locals for guidance. Bargain politely for private taxi fares. Carry small bills.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Private Taxis
  • Taxis are often older cream/yellow Mercedes-Benz. Hail on street.
  • Fares are negotiated before ride; meters rarely used or ignored.
  • Cash in MRO is the only accepted payment.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • No major international ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt) operate here.
  • Taxis are generally safe. Confirm fare beforehand to avoid disputes.
  • Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded shared taxis.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Available from local agencies. Not recommended for self-driving due to poor roads and traffic.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Extremely rare for tourists. Not recommended due to challenging conditions.

Bicycle Rentals

No sharing programs. Rentals uncommon. Cycling can be hazardous in traffic.

Specialty Vehicles

No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or similar tourist transport. Shared taxis function as main mass transit.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling in Nouakchott present unique challenges. Pedestrian-friendly areas are limited.

Walking Conditions

  • Not highly pedestrian-friendly. Uneven, non-existent, or blocked sidewalks.
  • Heavy, chaotic traffic. Drivers may not prioritize pedestrians.
  • Walkable within specific, smaller areas (Grand Marché, Tevragh Zeina).
  • Best during cooler parts of day (morning/late afternoon).

Cycling & Tours

  • No dedicated bicycle lanes or infrastructure. Cycling is generally unsafe.
  • Hazardous due to heavy traffic, aggressive driving, poor road surfaces.
  • No formal self-guided walking routes. Some local guides offer customized tours.
  • Avoid walking alone in deserted areas or far from main roads, especially after dark.

Specialized Transportation

  • No tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services available.
  • Water transport is not applicable for city use. Fishing boats are for fishing.
  • No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport options.
  • Accessibility services for mobility needs are virtually non-existent.
  • Travel with mobility challenges requires significant planning.
  • Infrastructure (sidewalks, ramps, restrooms) is poor.

Safety on Roads

Road Conditions

Road conditions vary; main roads may have potholes or sand drifts. Off-road travel needs a 4x4.

Driving Behavior

Local driving can be erratic; speed limits are rarely enforced. Animals frequently cross roads.

Parking

Parking is generally informal. Finding space in congested areas proves challenging.

Car & Scooter Rentals

Rental options for self-driving or other personal transport are very limited for tourists. Self-driving is generally not recommended.

Car Rental

  • Available from a few local agencies; international chains are rare.
  • Requires valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license.
  • Not recommended for tourists due to poor roads, lack of signage, erratic driving.
  • Safer to rent a 4x4 with an experienced local driver.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are extremely rare for tourists.
  • Not recommended due to challenging road conditions, heavy traffic, and safety concerns.
  • No bicycle sharing programs. Bicycle rentals are not common for tourists.
  • Cycling within Nouakchott can be hazardous due to chaotic traffic and poor road surfaces.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Side

Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Seatbelt use is mandatory, though locals often ignore it.

Road Quality

Roads vary significantly. Main roads may have potholes or sand drifts.

Off-road travel requires a 4x4 and considerable experience.

Traffic & Hazards

Local driving habits can be erratic; speed limits are rarely enforced.

Animals frequently cross roads, especially outside urban areas.

Pedestrian & Cycling Safety

Pedestrian Areas
  • Nouakchott is not highly pedestrian-friendly overall.
  • Sidewalks are often uneven, non-existent, or blocked by vendors/vehicles.
  • Traffic can be heavy and chaotic; drivers may not prioritize pedestrians.
Cycling Hazards
  • No dedicated bicycle lanes or infrastructure exists.
  • Cycling is generally unsafe due to traffic and aggressive driving.
  • Poor road surfaces also contribute to cycling risks.

Areas to Avoid

  • Avoid walking alone in deserted areas or far from main roads.
  • Exercise caution, especially after dark.
  • Certain peripheral neighborhoods might have higher crime rates.
  • Do not walk along major highways; they are not pedestrian-friendly.
  • Always maintain awareness of your surroundings due to erratic driving.
  • Be mindful of the potential for petty crime in crowded areas.
  • Avoid any large gatherings or demonstrations that could turn unpredictable.
  • When entering or exiting vehicles, be aware of your belongings.

General Transportation Tip

For a genuine local experience, use shared taxis for short distances. For longer journeys or desert trips, hiring a private vehicle with a local driver is ideal.

Always confirm your destination and agree on the fare before starting any taxi journey.

← Previous
Getting There & Away
← Back to Nouakchott
Next →
Accommodation Guide

Next Up: Accommodation Guide

Continue to Accommodation Guide