Mauritania Travel Advice
Mauritania is a country located in Northwest Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and neighboring Morocco, Western Sahara, Algeria, Mali, and Senegal.
Mauritania is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse geography, and complex socio-political history.
Mauritania’s terrain is dominated by vast deserts, particularly the Sahara Desert, which covers most of the country. It also features coastal plains along the Atlantic Ocean and a limited number of fertile oases and rivers, including the Senegal River in the south, which is vital for agriculture.
Mauritania has a population of about 4.5 million people, consisting of a mix of ethnic groups, including Arabs (Moors), Berbers, and Sub-Saharan ethnic groups like the Wolof, Soninke, and Halpulaar.
Mauritania is rich in natural resources, with significant deposits of iron ore, gold, and copper. Fishing along the Atlantic coast and agriculture along the Senegal River are also important sectors.
Mauritania remains one of the world’s poorest countries, with high rates of poverty and unemployment. The country faces challenges related to economic inequality, food insecurity, and access to clean water.
Despite being legally abolished in 1981, slavery continues to be a pressing issue in Mauritania, with reports of modern-day slavery still affecting certain segments of society.
Mauritania is a country with a rich cultural history, significant natural resources, and ongolitical challenges. While its economy is growing, largely due to the mining and fishing industries, poverty and human rights issues remain significant concerns. Travelers are drawn to its unique desert landscapes and historical sites, but security risks should be considered before visiting.
Visiting Mauritania FAQsHire a bodyguard in Mauritania
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Mauritania, please visit our website for our Bodyguard Services in Mauritania.
Key Information for Mauritania
Emergency Services
Police emergency in Cities: (la police nationale): 117
Police emergency: (le gendarmerie): 116
Medical emergency: 118
Fire emergency: 118
Traffic accidents: GGSR (le groupement général de la sécurité routière): 119
Country Overview
Capital City: Nouakchott
Official State Language(s): Arabic & French
Official State Religion(s): Islam (Sunni)
State Currency: Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Mauritania?
The security situation in Mauritania is marked by concerns over crime and terrorism, particularly in regions near the border with Mali.
The US and several other governments have issued travel advisories urging caution due to the risk of violent crimes, such as armed robberies, muggings, and assaults, which are common, especially in urban areas like Nouakchott.
Key Security Issues:
Crime: Violent crimes, including robberies and assaults, are prevalent. The local police often lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes, which makes personal safety a significant concern, particularly when traveling at night or in less-populated areas.
Mauritania faces an ongoing terrorist threat from Islamist militant groups operating in the wider Sahel region, which includes parts of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. These groups, such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), and Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), have been known to carry out cross-border incursions, particularly near Mauritania's eastern and southeastern borders with Mali.
Key Threat Areas:
Border Regions:
The Mali-Mauritania border is the most volatile, as it lies within the broader Sahel region, where militant groups frequently launch attacks, target security forces, and engage in smuggling and kidnapping for ransom operations. These groups often exploit the porous borders and weak government control in rural areas to expand their operations into Mauritania.
The northern regions of Mauritania, particularly areas north of the Tropic of Cancer, are considered highly dangerous and are designated as "off-limits" by the Mauritanian military. These areas, which extend into the Sahara Desert, are largely ungoverned and are favored by militant groups as hideouts and transit zones.
Cross-Border Incursions:
Terrorist groups use cross-border raids and incursions into Mauritania from Mali to test the country’s defenses. These incursions often target remote villages, military outposts, and convoys. Though less frequent than in neighboring Mali, the threat of attacks on Mauritanian security forces and government installations remains significant in border areas.
Kidnappings:
Kidnapping for ransom is a favored tactic of terrorist groups operating in the region. Foreigners, particularly aid workers, tourists, and expatriates, are at risk of being kidnapped, especially in remote areas and along the border regions. Militant groups have used these kidnappings to fund their operations, demanding large ransoms from governments and organizationsU.S. State Department and other foreign governments regularly advise against all but essential travel to these regions due to the risk of terrorism and kidnapping.
No Movement Zones: The Mauritanian military has designated certain areas as off-limits due to the presence of armed groups and the high risk of cross-border attacks. Travelers are advised to avoid these areas altogether, as police and security forces do not maintain a significant presence there.
Counter Terrorism Efforts:
In response to these threats, the Mauritanian government has bolstered its counterterrorism operations in collaboration with international partners, including France’s Operation Barkhane, the G5 Sahel Force, and the United States. These efforts have helped to contain the spread of terrorist activity within Mauritania’s borders, but the threat remains significant in areas with limited government presence.
The military has established no-travel zones to prevent civilians and travelers from entering high-risk areas. Additionally, security forces conduct frequent patrols and set up checkpoints along key roads, especially those leading toward the Mali border.
Due to these concerns, travelers are advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid traveling at night, and stay informed by monitoring local news and security updates. It’s also recommended to enroll in a traveler assistance program, such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and prepare a contingency plan for emergencies.
Travelers should adhere to local laws and customs, as Mauritanian is a predominantly Islamic country with strict regulations on behavior, public displays of affection, and alcohol consumption. Public displays of affection, especially near religious sites, and sexual activity outside of marriage may lead to legal consequences. It’s important to remain respectful of cultural norms, particularly in more conservative areas. For more information on Islamic culture, please see: Guide to Islamic culture.
Visiting Mauritania FAQsHealth Emergencies in Mauritania
Health Emergencies in Mauritania require careful planning and awareness due to the country’s limited healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote areas. Here’s an overview of what to expect and how to prepare:
Healthcare Infrastructure:
Public Healthcare: Mauritania’s public healthcare system is underdeveloped, especially outside the capital, Nouakchott. Public hospitals often face shortages of medical supplies, trained personnel, and equipment, which can make treating emergencies difficult.
Private Clinics: While private healthcare facilities in Nouakchott may offer better services than public hospitals, they are still limited in capacity and often require upfront payment before treatment.
Rural Healthcare: Medical facilities in rural and remote areas are minimal or non-existent, which can pose significant challenges in case of health emergencies.
Emergency Medical Services:
Ambulance Services: Ambulance services in Mauritania are extremely limited, especially in rural areas. In urban areas like Nouakchott, ambulance services exist but response times may be slow. In most cases, people rely on private vehicles to reach medical facilities.
Emergency Numbers: The local emergency numbers in Mauritania are not always reliable. It is often quicker and more effective to arrange private transportation to the nearest hospital in case of an emergency.
Common Health Risks:
Malaria: Malaria is a serious risk in Mauritania, particularly in the southern regions and during the rainy season. Travelers should take antimalarial medication and use mosquito repellents, insecticide-treated bed nets, and protective clothing to minimize the riskterborne Diseases: Diseases such as cholera and typhoid are prevalent due to poor sanitation and lack of clean water in some areas. Travelers should drink bottled or boiled water and avoid consuming food from questionable sources.
Heat-Related Illnesses: Due to the extreme heat in desert regions, dehydration, heatstroke, and sunburn are common. Travelers should stay hydrated and protect themselves from sun exposure by wearing appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended, as these diseases are spread through contaminated food, water, and body fluids.
Pharmacies:
Pharmacies are available in urban Nouakchott, but availability of certain medications may be limited. It’s advisable to bring a supply of any prescription medications you may need during your stay.
Summary:
Mauritania's healthcare system is limited, especially in rural areas, so preventive health measures such as vaccinations and antimalarial precautions are crucial. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended, as serious health emergencies may require transport to facilities outside the country. Travelers should also be prepared for heat-related illnesses, waterborne diseases, and poor access to emergency services, particularly in remote areas.
FAQs for visiting Mauritania
You can find the following embassies in Mauritania for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Nouakchott
Note: located between the Presidency building and the Spanish Embassy on Rue Abdallaye
The postal address:
B.P. 222,
Nouakchott,
Mauritania
Telephone: +222 4525 26601
Telephone: +222 4525 2663, 4525 1145 or 4525 3288
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +222 3662 8163
Fax: +254 20 363 6501
Email: [email protected]
Note: The British Government does not have an Embassy in Nouakchott, all interests are managed via the British Embassy in Rabat, Morocco
British Embassy Rabat
28 Avenue S.A.R. Sidi Mohammed,
Souissi 10105 (BP 45),
Rabat,
Morocco
Telephone: +212 537 633 333
Fax: +212 537 758 709
Email: [email protected]
To visit Mauritania, you will need to obtain a visa, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here is an overview of the visa options and requirements:
Visa on Arrival (VoA):
Visa on Arrival is available for most nationalities traveling to Mauritania for tourism or business purposes. You can obtain this visa upon arrival at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport or other official entry points.
The visa is typically valid for up to 30 days, but it can be extended once inside the country through local authorities. The cost of the visa on arrival varies but is generally around €55 or $60 USD.
Travelers should be prepared to provide documents such as:
- A passport with at least six months of validity.
- Proof of onward travel or a return ticket.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or invitation letter).
Pre-Arranged Visa:
Travelers who prefer to obtain a visa in advance or those who may not qualify for a visa on arrival can apply at a Mauritanian embassy or consulate in their home country.
The process generally requires:
- A completed visa application form.
- A passport photo.
- Proof of travel itinerary and accommodation.
- Payment of the visa fee (which varies based on nationality and visa type).
Transit Visa:
If you are passing through Mauritania and staying for fewer than 24 hours, you may not need a visa, provided you remain in the airport transit area.
For stays longer than 24 hours, a transit visa is required, and this can also be obtained upon arrival.
Visa Extensions:
If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 30-day visa period, you can apply for a visa extension at the Mauritanian immigration office. This process is generally straightforward but may require additional documentation and proof of reason for the extended stay.
Important Considerations:
Yellow Fever Vaccination: If you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you will need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Summary:
For most travelers, a visa on arrival is the easiest option when visiting Mauritania, with the visa valid for up to 30 days. It is advisable to carry the necessary documentation, including proof of accommodation and travel plans. You can also apply for a visa in advance at a Mauritanian embassy if preferred. Always check for the latest travel advisories and requirements before your trip.
A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry
- Visa application fee
- A recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of onward travel or return ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
It’s essential to apply for your visa in advance and ensure that you meet the specific entry requirements for your nationality. For more detailed or updated information, always refer to the official Kenya eVisa website or contact a Kenyan embassy or consulate.
While Mauritania has not faced a major terrorist attack since 2011, it remains on alert due to the ongoing threat posed by militant groups active in neighboring Mali and the broader Sahel region.
In March 2023, four jihadist prisoners escaped from a high-security prison in Nouakchott, killing two guards during their breakout. The prisoners were affiliated with terrorist organizations, and two had been sentenced to death. This incident highlighted potential security vulnerabilities despite a decade of relative calm.
Mauritania's government has taken significant steps to address these risks. It has increased military patrols in high-risk areas, especially along the Mali border, and invested in counterterrorism strategies, including efforts to de-radicalize jihadist recruits. However, the proximity to conflict zones in Mali, where groups like Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) operate, continues to pose a danger.
Mauritania’s strategy has involved not only military measures but also initiatives to improve local economic conditions and encourage dialogue with former jihadists. These efforts, alongside international cooperation, have helped reduce the likelihood of attacks, though the country remains vulnerable to cross-border incursions and potential radicalization.
Travelers are advised to exercise caution, particularly in areas near the Mali border, due to the lingering risk of terrorism, banditry, and instability.
Before visiting Mauritania, it’s important to ensure that you have the necessary vaccines and immunizations to protect against various health risks. Here is a list of the recommended vaccinations:
Yellow Fever (Mandatory)
A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Mauritania if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. You may need to show proof of vaccination, known as the International Certificate of Vaccination.
Routine Vaccines
Make sure you're up to date on routine vaccinations:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Influenza
Hepatitis A
Recommended because Hepatitis A can be contracted through contaminated food or water, a common risk in Mauritania.
Hepatitis B
Recommended for travelers, especially if you might be exposed to blood or body fluids, such as through medical care or intimate contact.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccination is recommended for most travelers, particularly if you're visiting rural areas or planning to eat street food.
Cholera (Optional)
The cholera vaccine may be recommended if you’re visiting areas with poor sanitation or during an outbreak.
Malaria Prevention
There is no malaria vaccine yet, but malaria is endemic in Mauritania, particularly in lower-altitude areas such as the coast and western Kenya. Travelers should take antimalarial medications like Malarone or doxycycline and use preventive measures like insect repellent, mosquito nets, and long-sleeved clothing.
Rabies (Optional)
Consider the rabies vaccine if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or work with animals, especially in rural areas.
Meningococcal Meningitis
Meningitis vaccination is recommended, especially during the dry season or if you will be in crowded areas.
Summary:
To visit Mauritania, ensure you're up to date on routine vaccinations, and consider vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and meningitis, depending on your activities. Malaria prevention is essential, and you should also consider rabies and cholera vaccines based on your specific travel plans.
Always consult a healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before traveling for personalized advice.
Public Transportation in Mauritania:
Public transportation is limited and somewhat informal in Mauritania, with few options available for travelers. Here's an overview:
Taxi-Brousse (Shared Bush Taxis):
This is the most common form of transportation between cities. Taxi-brousses are shared vehicles that follow set routes between urban areas and smaller towns. However, they tend to be overcrowded and uncomfortable. They can also be slow due to frequent stops and poor road conditions.
These taxis are inexpensive but often lack fixed schedules and depart only when full.
Taxis:
In urban centers like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, taxis are widely available. However, they usually don’t have meters, so you should negotiate the fare in advance. Taxis are relatively affordable but may not be in the best condition, especially outside of major cities.
Ride-sharing apps are generally unavailable, so taxis must be hailed on the street or booked via phone.
Buses:
While there are some bus services between larger cities, they are less frequent and less reliable than bush taxis. Most buses are operated by private companies, and the quality of service can vary. Buses also tend to be overcrowded and uncomfortable, especially for long-distance journeys.
Minivans and Shared Cars:
In smaller towns, minivans and shared cars are common for shorter distances. They follow similar practices to bush taxis, often waiting to fill up before departing. These are used by locals for more rural travel but can be difficult to navigate for foreign travelers due to language barriers and lack of information.
Driving in Mauritania:
If you prefer to drive, it is possible to do so with certain considerations:
Visitors can drive in Mauritania using an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with a valid home country driving license. This is typically accepted for short stays (up to 90 days). For longer stays, you may be required to convert your license to a Mauritanian driving license.
Road infrastructure varies significantly across Mauritania. Roads in major cities like Nouakchott are generally paved, but outside urban areas, road conditions deteriorate quickly, especially in rural and desert regions where many roads are unpaved or poorly maintained.
Driving in remote or desert areas requires a 4x4 vehicle due to rough terrain and sand tracks. It is crucial to be well-prepared with extra fuel, water, and spare tires if traveling long distances, particularly in desert regions.
Road Safety:
Driving at night is strongly discouraged due to poor lighting, the risk of encountering livestock or other animals on the road, and potential security risks such as banditry in remote areas.
Traffic signs are limited, and many drivers don’t adhere strictly to traffic rules, so defensive driving is recommended.
Fuel Availability:
Fuel stations are available in major cities but can be sparse in rural or remote regions. It's important to plan refueling stops carefully if you are traveling outside urban centers.
Border Crossings:
If you are planning to drive across borders to neighboring countries, be aware that some areas near the borders with Mali and Algeria are considered high-risk due to terrorist activity. It’s important to check travel advisories and avoid these regions if possible.
In summary, while driving in Mauritania is possible, it requires careful planning, especially for long-distance travel through the desert. Travelers should have the necessary documentation, be prepared for difficult road conditions, and ensure they have adequate supplies for long trips. Public transportation is limited, and taxis or shared vehicles are the most common means of travel in cities.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Mauritania, please contact our London office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
330 High Holborn
WC1V 7QT
London
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Mauritania is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.