Mauritania 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Capital and Ancient Ruins

Morning:

  • Arrival at Nouakchott International Airport.
  • Check-in at your hotel and freshen up.
  • Visit the National Museum of Mauritania, where you can learn about the country’s history and culture.
  • Grab lunch at a local restaurant to taste traditional Mauritanian dishes like Harira (lentil soup) and Kebabs.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Porte de L’Atlantique, a beautiful seaside promenade offering great views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Visit the Mosque of Nouakchott, one of the largest mosques in Africa.
  • In the evening, explore the vibrant local markets like Grand Marche for shopping and cultural immersion.

Evening:

  • Dine at a restaurant offering traditional Mauritanian cuisine.
  • Rest for the day as tomorrow will be a long day of travel.

Day 2: Desert Adventure and Ancient Ruins

Morning:

  • Early morning departure from Nouakchott to Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient university and mosques dating back to the 14th century.
  • Visit the Grand Mosque of Chinguetti, one of the oldest mosques in Africa.
  • Explore the old town and learn about the history and culture of this fascinating city.

Afternoon:

  • After lunch, continue your journey towards Ouadane, another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sahara Desert.
  • Visit the ancient ruins of Ouadane, a pre-Saharan trading post and oasis settlement.
  • Enjoy a camel ride in the desert, an unforgettable experience.

Evening:

  • Head back to Nouakchott.
  • Farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your amazing journey through Mauritania.

Things to Note:

  1. Visa: Ensure you have a valid visa for Mauritania. Most visitors require a tourist visa, which can be obtained from the Mauritanian embassy in your country or upon arrival at the airport. Check the latest requirements as they may change.
  2. Transportation: Taxis and hire cars are widely available in Nouakchott. For the desert trip, it’s recommended to book a guided tour.
  3. Currency: The official currency is Ouguiya (UMT) and Mauritian Franc (MUR). It’s best to exchange money at authorized money changers or banks. Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities.
  4. Health: Vaccinations for yellow fever and hepatitis A & B are recommended. Check the latest health advice from your local travel clinic before traveling.
  5. Language: Arabic and French are the official languages, but Pulaar (Fulfulde) is widely spoken. Learning a few basic phrases can enhance your experience.
  6. Travel Insurance: Always have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen incidents or cancellations.