Nouakchott Traveler Essentials
- Safety rating
- 4.5/10
- Best time to visit
- The cooler months from November to March are the most comfortable, avoiding extreme desert heat.
- Population
- 1.3M
Overview
Mauritania's flat, sandy capital rose from a small village into a sprawling Saharan metropolis on the Atlantic edge. Its lively fishing port and vast markets offer a window into a country poised between desert nomad traditions and the sea.
Getting around
Shared taxis and minibuses serve the spread-out, sandy city; agree fares in advance and expect dust and heat.
Local etiquette
Dress modestly, respect Islamic customs and prayer times, abstain from alcohol, and ask before photographing people.
Safety
Nouakchott is relatively calm but watch for petty theft, avoid the remote interior without guides and keep a low profile near sensitive sites.