Mauritania 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Mauritania

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the cultural and historical highlights of Mauritania. It’s a starting point - you can adjust it based on your interests and time constraints!

Day 1: Arrival in Nouakchott & City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport (NSK) and obtain your visa on arrival (more on this below).
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant city of Nouakchott, including:
    • The Nouakchott Fish Market, a bustling hub with fresh seafood and a glimpse into local life.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mauritanian dinner in the Old City (Vieux Nouakchott), experiencing the lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine of this historical area.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Nouakchchot

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Mauritania, exploring its exhibits on the country’s rich history, culture, and art.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Grand Mosque of Nouakchott, a stunning architectural landmark.

Day 3: Journey to Chinguetti

  • Morning: Travel from Nouakchott to Chinguetti, a historic town on the edge of the Sahara Desert, known for its ancient libraries and stunning desert architecture.
  • Afternoon: Tour the ancient library of Cheikh al-Waad Mosque and experience the traditional learning methods used in Mauritania.

Day 4: Exploring the Ancient City

  • Morning: Spend the morning exploring the ancient city of Chinguetti, visiting its historical sites and interacting with the local people.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a desert sunset over the dunes.

Day 5: Back to the Desert & Local Cuisine

  • Morning: Visit a traditional Mauritanian blacksmith’s workshop to see how they craft their intricate metalwork.
  • Afternoon: Continue exploring the desert and its unique historical mosques and libraries, learning about the ancient traditions of scholarship and learning that flourished in this region.
  • Evening: Sample delicious local cuisine like couscous with meat and vegetables, camel milk tea, or a refreshing “bissap” (hibiscus tea).

Day 6: Departure from Chinguetti

  • Morning: Visit the ancient city of Oualata, exploring its historical significance as a trading hub and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final camel ride through the desert, marveling at the vastness and beauty of the landscape.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  • Visa on Arrival: Most nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival for a single-entry tourist visa, valid for one month, which is available at Nouakott-Oumtounsy International Airport (NSK).
  • Currency: The official currency is the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU).
  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but French is widely spoken, especially in urban areas.

Currency Exchange:

  • US Dollars & Euros: Widely accepted for currency exchange, but be sure to have crisp, clean bills as they often won’t accept damaged ones.
  • Small-scale transactions: Small-scale transactions are generally done with cash. While the US dollar is the preferred currency, you can also use euros.

Important Considerations:

  • Safety: Mauritania is a safe country for travelers, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft in crowded areas.
  • Culture: Be respectful of local customs. This means dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees), asking permission before taking photographs of people or sensitive areas, and being mindful of the fact that Mauritania is a predominantly Muslim country.

Tips for a Smooth Trip:

  • Currency Exchange: Mauritanian ouguiyaas are the official currency. While US dollars and euros are generally accepted for larger transactions, it’s best to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases and tips.

Things to do:

  • Explore Ancient Cities: Immerse yourself in history by visiting the ancient cities of Chinguetti, Ouadane, and Atar.** These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are remnants of the ancient caravan trade routes across the Sahara.

  • Discover Unique Architecture: Admire the traditional architecture of these sites, including the distinctive mud-brick structures.**

  • Experience the Desert: Explore the vast and breathtaking landscapes of the Banc d’Arguin National Park, a natural wonder with a rich diversity of wildlife.

  • Embrace the Culture:

Remember to always ask for permission before photographing people or local traditions, and be prepared to offer a small tip (a few hundred MRU) for their hospitality.

Respecting Local Customs:

  • Dress Modestly: This means covering your shoulders and knees with clothing that is not too tight or revealing.
  • Be Mindful of Ramadan: If you are traveling during this period, remember that many locals will be fasting. Be respectful of this and avoid eating or drinking in public while fasting hours are in effect.

Things to Remember:

  • Currency: It’s important to have some local currency (Mauritanian ouguiya) for smaller expenses.
  • Photography: While taking pictures is generally acceptable in tourist areas, it’s crucial to be mindful of cultural sensitivities. Always ask before you photograph anyone or anything.
  • Language: Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way with local people.

Enjoy the experience!

Remember: This is just a sample and needs to be customized based on your interests.