Top reasons to visit Mauritania
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore historic cities like Chinguetti, renowned for its ancient libraries and vibrant markets in Nouakchott, showcasing Mauritanian hospitality.
- Breathtaking Landscapes: Experience the stunning Sahara Desert and the picturesque Banc d'Arguin National Park, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like canoeing, kayaking, and soccer, offering a glimpse into the region's natural beauty.
- Vibrant Music Festivals: Immerse yourself in local culture by attending lively music festivals that highlight Mauritania's talent.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses, ensuring a pleasant stay tailored to your needs.
Find great hotels in Mauritania
Discover a variety of accommodation options in Mauritania, ranging from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a business-friendly environment, or a rejuvenating spa-themed experience, you'll find suitable choices to enhance your stay. With numerous hotels available, each offering unique services and facilities, you're sure to enjoy your visit to this captivating destination.
- Azalaï Hotel Nouakchott: A 4-star gem in the heart of Mauritania, Azalaï Hotel Nouakchott boasts a welcoming atmosphere ideal for both business and leisure travellers. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this hotel accommodates pets, making it a suitable option for those wishing to bring their furry companions along. The property features amenities tailored for business needs, ensuring a productive stay. Guests have appreciated the hotel's comfortable rooms and attentive service, enhancing the overall experience.
- Nouakchott Hotel: Rated at 8.4 out of 10, Nouakchott Hotel is a distinguished 4-star accommodation perfect for business travellers seeking convenience and comfort. This hotel offers a range of amenities designed to cater to corporate needs, ensuring an efficient stay. Guests often highlight the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the facilities, contributing to a seamless experience in the bustling capital of Mauritania.
- Hotel Semiramis City center: With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, Hotel Semiramis City Center is another excellent 4-star choice situated strategically for those visiting Mauritania. This hotel stands out for its focus on providing essential amenities for business travellers. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations and easy access to local attractions, making it a practical base for exploration or work.
Where to stay in Mauritania
Embarking on a journey through Mauritania unveils a tapestry of culture and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the historic city of Chinguetti, known for its ancient libraries, or the vibrant markets of Nouakchott, where the warmth of Mauritanian hospitality envelops you. Discover the stunning Sahara Desert and the picturesque Banc d'Arguin National Park, perfect for nature lovers. Whether shopping for local crafts or soaking in the serene atmosphere, Mauritania promises an unforgettable travel experience.
- Nouakchott: As the capital city of Mauritania, Nouakchott is a vibrant hub located along the Atlantic coast. It offers a delightful blend of urban life and beach leisure, attracting visitors who seek sports and water activities. The city experiences peak tourist arrivals in January and during the summer months of June to July, making it a lively destination for beachgoers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Visitors can indulge in fishing, canoeing, and surfing while enjoying the scenic beaches. Notable landmarks include local sports facilities and an impressive stadium, making Nouakchott an exciting spot for both relaxation and recreation.
- Nouadhibou: Positioned at the northern tip of Mauritania, Nouadhibou is a city renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. The city sees a moderate influx of tourists, especially during the peak months of February and from May to June. Nouadhibou is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and natural beauty, with its proximity to national parks offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. The breathtaking scenery and unique geographical features make this city a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
- Tevragh Zein: Nestled near the coast, Tevragh Zein is a charming neighbourhood that draws visitors primarily for its beautiful beaches. The area remains relatively stable in terms of tourist arrivals, with peaks observed from February to March and November. Tevragh Zein offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and beach activities. The inviting sandy shores provide a wonderful backdrop for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal scenery, making it a delightful retreat for those looking to unwind in a tranquil environment.
Things to do in Mauritania
Shopping
In the heart of Nouakchott, the bustling Marché Capitale offers a vibrant mix of local crafts, textiles, and spices, perfect for unique souvenirs. For a more modern experience, consider visiting the Nouakchott Mall, where you can find a variety of shops catering to different tastes.
Recreation
In Nouakchott, the Hotel Tfeila features a serene wellness centre offering traditional massages and body treatments amidst a calming atmosphere. At the Banc d'Arguin National Park, enjoy tranquil nature walks and birdwatching, allowing for a rejuvenating connection with the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Adventure
Explore the vast Sahara Desert on a camel trek, taking in the stunning dunes and unique landscapes. Visit the ancient city of Chinguetti, renowned for its historic libraries, and discover the vibrant local culture. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets over the desert horizon for a truly memorable experience.
Nightlife
In Nouakchott, the vibrant La Maison des Cultures hosts live music and cultural performances, creating an engaging atmosphere. For a more laid-back experience, Le Lagon offers beachfront views and a relaxed bar scene, ideal for enjoying local drinks and mingling with locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mauritania
To save money on your trip to Mauritania, consider visiting in the cheapest months, which are January, June, and November, while avoiding February and August to September when prices rise. Saturdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter accommodations by budget and location, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and hotels for better savings. Additionally, explore the local area on foot to minimise transport costs and seek out free activities to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Mauritania are January, June and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and August to September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Mauritania is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Mauritania is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Mauritania with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Mauritania
Whether you're drawn to the rich culture, the stunning beaches, or vibrant town neighbourhoods, Mauritania offers a variety of attractions for every type of traveller. Explore magnificent mosques, enjoy outdoor adventures, or relax by the coast. This diverse landscape ensures an unforgettable experience for those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion during their visit.
- Nouakchott Beach: This vibrant beach offers a relaxing escape with its golden sands and gentle waves. Enjoy the local atmosphere as you stroll along the shore, indulge in fresh seafood from nearby stalls, or simply soak up the sun while watching local fishermen at work.
- Banc d'Arguin National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this national park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Experience the stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for birdwatching, as well as adventurous activities like sailing and kayaking in its serene waters.
- Iwik: A charming town that encapsulates the essence of Mauritanian life. Wander through its bustling streets, sample traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture, making Iwik a delightful stop on your journey.
Best time to go to Mauritania
The best time to visit Mauritania can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Mauritania falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Mauritania falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Mauritania
Flying into Mauritania is convenient via Nouakchott International Airport (NKC), situated approximately 616km from the capital. This major airport offers connections to various international destinations. Nearby accommodations include the 4-star Azalaï Hotel Nouakchott, MauriCenter Hotel, and Sunset Hotel, all located just 3km from the airport. The Azalaï provides a free 24-hour airport shuttle service, while MauriCenter offers both free and fee-based shuttle options, including accessible services upon request. Sunset Hotel also features excellent proximity to the airport, ensuring a comfortable stay for tourists visiting this unique destination.