Nouakchott Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Nouakchott with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover culturally important attractions, natural wonders, great food and drink choices, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Nouakchott

Nouakchott is the capital and largest city of Mauritania, located in Sahel, a sub-Saharan region of Africa. As a coastal city, Nouakchott boasts stunning ocean views and culture that is heavily influenced by its French colonial past. This bustling city has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained, from historical and cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures and great food and drink choices.

List of Places to Visit in Nouakchott

When visiting Nouakchott, there’s no shortage of things to explore. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Nouakchott:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Mauritania: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the country’s rich history and culture.
  • Fort de l’Eau: This fort was built in the early 20th century and served initially as a French military outpost before becoming a museum.
  • Mosque Saudique: Also known as the Saudi Mosque, this mosque is one of the most significant religious sites in the city.

Natural Attractions of Nouakchott: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Le Cinquième: This beach is popular with locals and visitors. It boasts expansive ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, swimming, or sunbathing.
  • Banc d’Arguin National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Banc d’Arguin National Park is one of the most significant bird breeding sites in the world and a must-visit for bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts.
  • Cap Blanc: Located just outside the city, this stunning white sand beach is a popular spot for picnicking and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nouakchott

One of the best ways to explore Nouakchott is by bike or on foot. Here are some great hiking and biking routes:

  • The Promenade: A 6 km-long trail provides an excellent opportunity for walking, cycling, and enjoying scenic ocean views.
  • The Presidential Palace Road: A 7 km-long trail that offers an opportunity to explore the city’s green areas and architecture.
  • The Cap Blanc Trail: A 14 km-long trail that offers views of the Atlantic, the desert, and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Nouakchott: Activities and Tours

Aside from sightseeing, Nouakchott has a lot to offer in the way of activities and tours:

  • Desert Safaris: Explore the beauty of the desert on a camel or 4×4 safari.
  • Kiteboarding: Head to the local beaches and ride the waves with a kiteboard.
  • Cultural Tours: Discover the history and culture of the city by taking a guided walking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nouakchott

For visitors with a week in Nouakchott, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the National Museum of Mauritania and the Fort de l’Eau.

Day 2: Head to the beach and relax at Le Cinquième.

Day 3: Bird watching at Banc d’Arguin National Park.

Day 4: Explore the architecture of the city, including the Presidential Palace Road.

Day 5: Take a cultural tour of the city, including Mosque Saudique.

Day 6: Embark on a camel or 4x4 desert safari.

Day 7: Visit Cap Blanc Beach and enjoy some water sports.

Food and Drink Scene of Nouakchott

No trip to Nouakchott is complete without trying some of the local foods and beverages. Here’s what to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Thieboudienne: This dish is known as the national dish of Mauritania and features fish served with rice and vegetables.
  • Cheb-u-jin: A spicy tripe and meat stew
  • Maafe: A peanut-based stew

Local Beverages

  • Ataya: A traditional Mauritanian tea served in a three-part pouring process. A social ritual you won’t want to miss.
  • Tejtuj: A sweet, refreshing mint juice commonly consumed after a meal.

Where to Stay in Nouakchott: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From budget-friendly options to luxury resorts, Nouakchott has a range of accommodation options to suit any budget or preference:

  • El Khaima City Center: An excellent budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and great service and located in the city’s center.
  • Nouakchott Hotel: A modern, upscale hotel suitable for couples and travelers exploring the city’s business side.
  • La Siesta Hôtel: A boutique hotel featuring personalized service and comfortable rooms near the beach.

What to Buy in Nouakchott: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Nouakchott can find plenty of unique local products to bring back home. Here are a few ideas:

  • Carpets and Rugs: The city is known for its high-quality, hand-woven rugs and carpets.
  • Tea Sets: Bring home an authentic Mauritanian tea set so you can enjoy traditional tea rituals.
  • Handicrafts: The city is filled with local artisan shops selling unique crafts such as woven baskets and embroidered fabrics.

Local Culture and Customs of Nouakchott

The people of Nouakchott are predominantly Muslim with many customs that you should respect, such as:

  • Dress Code: Dress conservatively and avoid wearing anything revealing.
  • Prayer Calls: Be respectful during prayer calls and avoid loud noises.
  • Food Customs: Muslims do not eat pork, so avoid offering pork or pork-related foods.

Best Time to Visit Nouakchott

The best time to visit Nouakchott is between November and March when the weather is dry and temperatures are mild, reaching an average high of 25 °C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nouakchott

Do:

  • Dress Conservatively: Dress in a modest, respectful style out of respect for local customs.
  • Respect Religious Sites: Be respectful when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  • Experience Local Culture: Try to experience the local culture and customs by interacting with locals and trying traditional foods.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect Religious Customs: Do not enter mosques without permission and avoid entering religious sites during prayer times.
  • Litter: Be respectful of the environment when sightseeing and dispose of litter appropriately.
  • Be a noisy tourist: Avoid being a loud, obnoxious tourist that disrupts the local community.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nouakchott

Like any big, bustling city, Nouakchott has its share of safety risks. Visitors should take the necessary precautions, such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night: If possible, take a taxi if you need to go out at night.
  • Lock your doors: Make sure your hotel room and car are locked at all times.
  • Be aware of pickpockets: Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid carrying too much cash.

Health in Nouakchott

It is advisable to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from tropical diseases such as malaria, typhoid, and hepatitis. Travelers should also ensure they have all necessary vaccinations before visiting.

Getting to Nouakchott: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nouakchott

The Nouakchott International Airport is the primary gateway to the city. Flights operate regularly from major cities in Africa and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Nouakchott

Long-distance bus services operate throughout the country and connect the city with neighboring countries such as Senegal and Mali.

Other Options

Taxis are widely available in the city and are a popular way of getting around town. Shared taxis are also a cheap and efficient means of transportation.

How to Get Around in Nouakchott

The most popular forms of transportation are taxi and shared taxi, which are cheap and widely available. Visitors who wish to explore the city on foot or bike should take extra precautions in regards to safety.

Where to Go Next from Nouakchott: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Atar: Located in the Adrar Region of Mauritania, Atar is a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts and cultural travelers who are looking to explore local culture and nature.
  • Chinguetti: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for those interested in history and old architecture.
  • Rosso: Bordering Senegal, Rosso is an attractive destination for those interested in exploring a new country and experiencing local culture.

Conclusion

Nouakchott is a vibrant, cultural city with a lot to offer visitors. From historical and cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures, great food and drink choices, and welcoming locals, it’s a destination worth exploring. Ensuring that you take the necessary precautions and respecting local customs and culture will ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

The Central Mosque The Central Mosque On the beach in Nouakchott On the beach in Nouakchott Camel Market Camel Market