Mauritania Country Travel Tips Itinerary Must See Must Do Photo OOAworld

Mauritania

Traveling to Mauritania can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. Despite the risk of terrorism and crime, it is still possible to explore the country and its rich culture. Here are some tips to help make your journey a safe and enjoyable one.

  1. Always check your local or the U.S. State Department’s website for travel advisories before you go.
  2. Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations before you leave.
  3. Purchase a travel insurance policy to cover you in case of an emergency.
  4. Carry photocopies of all important documents and keep them in a safe place.
  5. Avoid traveling alone, and use public transportation whenever possible.
  6. Keep a low profile when visiting tourist attractions and holy sites.
  7. Only use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations.
  8. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert at all times.
  9. Make sure to dress modestly, according to the local customs.
  10. Bring plenty of bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.
  11. Only use official guides and tour companies when exploring.
  12. Respect the culture and customs of the people you meet.

Now that you know some tips for traveling safely in Mauritania, it’s time to explore some of the amazing sites and monuments the country has to offer.

  1. Chinguetti Mosque: One of the most important sites in Mauritania, located in the town of Chinguetti. Constructed in the 13th century, it is a fantastic example of Islamic architecture. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/chinguetti-mosque)
  2. Ksar Ouled Soltane: One of the most impressive fortified villages in the country. Located in the town of Ouadane, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1032)
  3. Grande Mosque: Built in the 17th century, this mosque is the largest in the country and is located in the capital city of Nouakchott. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/nouakchott/attractions/grande-mosque/a/poi-sig/1477010/1319895)
  4. Terjit Oasis: Located in the Adrar Region, it is an oasis surrounded by ancient Saharan sandstone formations. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/terjit-oasis)
  5. Nouadhibou: The second largest city in Mauritania, and a popular destination for tourists. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/nouadhibou/attractions/a/poi-sig/1537248/1326714)
  6. The Kasbah of Ouadane: One of the oldest and best preserved kasbahs in the Sahara Desert. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/ouadane/attractions/the-kasbah-of-ouadane/a/poi-sig/1477010/1319895)
  7. Archaeological Site of Ouadane: A pre-Islamic archaeological site located near the town of Ouadane. (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1032)
  8. The Sacred Well of Islam: Located in the town of Chinguetti, it is one of the oldest Islamic wells in the world. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-sacred-well-of-islam)
  9. El Ghallaouiya Mosque: Located in the town of Kaédi, it is one of the oldest mosques in Mauritania. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/kaedi/attractions/el-ghallaouiya-mosque/a/poi-sig/1488039/1350312)
  10. The Oualata Mosque: A beautiful mosque in the town of Oualata, located in the Adrar Region. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/oualata-mosque)
  11. Archeological Site of Atar: Located in the Adrar Region, it is an important site for pre-Islamic cultures. (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1032)
  12. The Oualata Manuscript Library: Located in the town of Oualata, it is home to a large collection of ancient manuscripts. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/oualata-manuscript-library)
  13. Oued el Kharroub: A great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, located in the town of Kiffa. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/kiffa/attractions/oued-el-kharroub/a/poi-sig/1488039/1356553)
  14. The National Museum of Mauritania: Located in the capital city of Nouakchott, it is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the country. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/nouakchott/attractions/the-national-museum-of-mauritania/a/poi-sig/1477010/1326714)
  15. The Port of Nouadhibou: The largest fishing port in Mauritania, located in the city of Nouadhibou. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/nouadhibou/attractions/the-port-of-nouadhibou/a/poi-sig/1537248/1326714)
  16. The Sand Dunes of Chinguetti: One of the most beautiful spots in Mauritania, located in the town of Chinguetti. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/chinguetti/attractions/the-sand-dunes-of-chinguetti/a/poi-sig/1488039/1350312)
  17. The Mosque of Nouakchott: One of the largest mosques in the country, located in the capital city. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/nouakchott/attractions/the-mosque-of-nouakchott/a/poi-sig/1477010/1326714)
  18. The Great Mosque of Atar: A great example of Islamic architecture, located in the town of Atar. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/great-mosque-of-atar)
  19. The Desert Lakes of Mauritania: A great spot for camping and hiking, located in the desert region. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/desert-lakes-of-mauritania)
  20. The Ouadane Fort: A great spot for exploring the ancient ruins of the town of Ouadane. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mauritania/ouadane/attractions/the-ouadane-fort/a/poi-sig/1477010/1319895)

With all these amazing sites to explore, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring Mauritania. Just be sure to follow all the safety tips and respect the local customs, and you’ll have a great trip!