Entry Requirements and Visas
As of January 2025, most travellers need to apply for an e-visa to enter Mauritania. The application process typically takes 1-3 business days, though delays can occur. Processing times may be unpredictable due to bureaucratic factors and the government's limited focus on tourism development.
Alternatively, you can obtain a visa from a Mauritanian embassy. If applying at the embassy in Rabat, a single entry visa costs 1,000 Moroccan dirham, while a double entry visa is 1,100 dirham. You'll need two passport-size photos and a copy of your passport's information pages. Same-day afternoon processing is available for most nationalities if you apply in the morning.
If entering by car from Western Sahara/Morocco near Nouadhibou, note that transit visas valid for 3 days are no longer available at the border, though this policy may change. The formalities themselves are straightforward at official crossings.
Money, Currency, and Typical Costs
Mauritania's currency is the Ouguiya (MRU). Bush taxis from Senegal to Mauritania cost approximately 200 ouguiya, while shared transport from Dakar to Rosso is around 6,000 CFA francs. When crossing from Morocco by private arrangement, expect to pay 250-380 Moroccan dirham (negotiable) per person for vehicle transport.
Currency exchange is available at border crossings, though exchanging money in advance through your bank or at major entry points is advisable. Keep in mind that tourism infrastructure is limited, so carrying sufficient cash is important.
Safety and Emergency Contacts
Mauritania requires careful travel planning. The area near Western Sahara is heavily mined, and travel there is highly inadvisable. Border areas with Algeria and Mali are known for banditry and should be avoided. The paved road from Morocco has been the site of kidnappings by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM); if you must use this route, travel in a tight caravan during daylight hours.
Certain regions—typically in the eastern and northern portions of the country—are closed to tourists by the Mauritanian armed forces. Before planning your trip, verify which areas are accessible. Check your embassy's travel advisories for current conditions.
In safer areas, common sense precautions apply: avoid displaying wealth or expensive items, travel between cities during daylight hours, move in groups on major routes, and do your research beforehand.
The international dialing code for Mauritania is +222. Keep your embassy contact information readily available and register with your embassy before travelling.
Health
Tap water is not safe to drink for most Westerners throughout the country, including in the capital Nouakchott. Drink only bottled water unless you have access to a water purifying or filtration system.
The Saharan climate is extremely dry, making dehydration a serious risk that you may not notice immediately. A practical guideline is to ensure you urinate three times daily at reasonable intervals; during the hottest months, you may need to drink several litres of water each day.
Malaria is endemic in the southern part of the country. Always use a mosquito net in these regions. Mosquitoes are less common in the dry desert north, but exist year-round in the south, though they are somewhat less prevalent during the dry season from December to May.
Staying Connected
Mobile SIM cards are available for purchase in Mauritania, allowing you to use local networks once you arrive. However, specific details about providers, pricing, and coverage are best confirmed with current travel resources or your hotel upon arrival, as mobile infrastructure and offerings may vary.
Internet connectivity is available but may be slower and less reliable than in developed countries. Consider downloading offline maps and important information before arrival, particularly if you plan to travel to remote areas.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Mauritania is an Islamic country where almost all inhabitants are Sunni Muslims. Islam is recognized as the state religion, and the legal code is based on Sharia law. It is unwise to speak negatively of Islam, distribute non-Islamic religious literature, or engage people in religious debates. Mauritanians who convert to other religions lose their citizenship, and both apostasy and blasphemy carry severe penalties under law.
Greet people with "Salaam alaykum" (Peace be upon you). Men should not initiate handshakes with women, and vice versa. If a woman offers her hand first, it is acceptable to shake it. Otherwise, greet with a verbal hello and place your hand over your heart as a respectful gesture.
Always eat with your right hand, particularly outside Nouakchott where you may not be offered cutlery. This is especially important when dining with locals or in traditional settings.
LGBTQ+ travellers should exercise caution and discretion. While the country has had a moratorium on capital punishment since 1986, same-sex activity remains illegal and socially stigmatized. Avoid public acknowledgement of sexual orientation or gender identity.