Mauritania 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Travel Itinerary for Mauritania

Day 1: Nouakchott (Arrival)

Places to Go:

  1. Nouakchott Mosque: The largest mosque in Africa, it’s an architectural marvel that offers a peaceful start to your journey.
  2. Museum of Mauritania: This museum provides insights into the history and culture of Mauritania.
  3. Le Corniche: A popular seaside promenade perfect for evening strolls.

Activities:

  1. Explore local markets like Marche de la Corniche or Souk El-Tarik for authentic Mauritanian goods.
  2. Visit the National Archives to learn about the country’s history.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Arabic, and French is widely spoken.
  • Mauritania uses the West African CFA franc as its currency.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious holidays.

Visa Requirements:

  • Most nationalities require a visa to enter Mauritania. Check with your local embassy for the latest information.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are readily available in Nouakchott. You can also rent a car if you prefer self-driving.

Day 2: Nouadhibou (Day trip)

Places to Go:

  1. Isola: A group of islands off the coast of Nouadhibou, home to seabird colonies and historic French fortifications.
  2. Akbayr (Port Etienne): A fishing port with a unique landscape of rusting ships.

Activities:

  1. Visit the Diaspora African Museum in Nouadhibou to learn about Mauritanian history and culture.
  2. Explore the beaches and enjoy local seafood in Nouadhibou.

Day 3: Choum - Ouadane (Djursaf)

Places to Go:

  1. Richat Structures (Erg Chech): Also known as the “Eye of the Sahara,” this geological formation is a must-see.
  2. Ksour of Chinguetti: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient mud-brick buildings are a testament to Mauritania’s history.
  3. Ouadane: Once a bustling Saharan trading post, it now offers a peaceful and atmospheric experience.

Activities:

  1. Explore the sand dunes around Richat Structures on a 4x4 tour.
  2. Visit the Great Mosque of Chinguetti, one of the oldest mosques in Africa.

Things to Know:

  • The desert can get very hot during the day, so carry plenty of water and sun protection.
  • Overnight camping in the Sahara is an option for a truly immersive experience.

Day 4: Atar (Day trip)

Places to Go:

  1. Grand Mosque of Atar: A beautiful example of traditional Mauritanian architecture.
  2. Imintanout: A series of rock engravings near Atar, showcasing the area’s history and culture.
  3. Adjjer Fortress: A well-preserved ksar (fortified village) dating back to the 15th century.

Activities:

  1. Experience local life by visiting a nomadic camp and learning about their traditions.
  2. Try traditional Mauritanian cuisine, such as Thieboudienne (fish and rice dish) or Sellou (a sweet pastry).

Transportation:

  • For this itinerary, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle suitable for desert driving. Some tour operators offer guided tours with transport included.