Welcome to Mauritania 😊

Quick Facts About Mauritania

Money and Finances

The official currency of Mauritania is the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRO), which is available in both coins and notes. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 ouguiya, while notes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 ouguiya.

ATM Network

ATMs can be found in major cities such as Nouakchott, Nouadhibou, Rosso, and Kaédi. However, they are not widely available throughout the country and so it is advisable to make sure you have enough cash on hand when traveling to more remote regions.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Mauritania, with only a limited number of hotels and restaurants in the major cities accepting Visa and Mastercard. AMEX is not accepted at all. It is therefore advisable to carry cash for everyday expenses.

Internet and Phones

In Mauritania, the average internet speed is relatively slow, with an average download speed of 2 Mbps and an average upload speed of 1 Mbps. There has been government interference in internet use, including periods of censorship and restrictions on social media platforms.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are two main telco companies operating in Mauritania: Mauritel and Chinguitel. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively affordable, with prices starting at around 5 USD per month. However, there are some sim compatibility issues, so it is recommended to check with the telco companies before purchasing a sim card.

Dialling to Mauritania

To call Mauritania from another country, dial the international code (+ or 00), followed by the country code (222), and then the phone number. Within Mauritania, the area codes used when dialling depend on the region. Nouakchott, the capital, has the code 45, while other regions have codes ranging from 22 to 59.

Transport Around Mauritania

Air Travel

Mauritania has one major international airport, Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport, located in the capital city of Nouakchott. There are also smaller regional airports throughout the country.

Train Travel

Mauritania does not have an inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Mauritania does not have a metro system.

Buses

There are some bus services in Mauritania, but they are not well developed and can be unreliable. A popular route is between Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, which takes around 7 hours and costs approximately 10-15 USD.

Rideshare

There are no rideshare companies operating in Mauritania.

Driving by Car

Driving in Mauritania can be quite challenging due to poorly maintained roads and erratic driving. The usual speed limit is 40 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways. Mauritania uses right hand drive.

Local Customs

In Mauritania, tipping is not expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. The most common way to greet someone is saying 'Salam Aleikum' which means 'Peace be upon you'. Men typically shake hands with each other and women often hug and kiss on the cheek. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to use formal language and avoid asking personal questions. Men and women do not usually address each other by their first names unless they are family or close friends.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Mauritania's healthcare system is underdeveloped and inadequate. Public hospitals and clinics suffer from limited resources, lack of equipment and medical supplies, and a shortage of trained medical professionals. Medical treatment may be costly and may require payment in advance. Private medical facilities are available in Nouakchott, but they can be expensive. A visit to a doctor may cost around 10-50 USD.

COVID Situation

Mauritania has reported a total of over 23,000 cases of COVID-19, with more than 20,000 recoveries and around 500 deaths. The government has implemented measures such as travel restrictions, curfews, and mandatory mask-wearing to control the spread of the virus. However, the situation remains concerning.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common risk in Mauritania, particularly during the rainy season (June-October). Travelers should take precautions such as using mosquito nets, insect repellent, and malarial prophylaxis. Food and waterborne illnesses are also a concern, and travelers should be vigilant in consuming only safe, clean, and well-cooked food and beverages. Other health risks include cholera, dengue fever, and hepatitis A.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is illegal in Mauritania and can result in fines and imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

The use and possession of drugs are strictly prohibited in Mauritania and can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment and even the death penalty.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are socially unacceptable in Mauritania and can result in ostracism from the community. However, there are no specific laws criminalizing this behavior.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Mauritania and can result in imprisonment, flogging, or even the death penalty.

Firearms / Guns

Guns and firearms are heavily regulated in Mauritania, and ownership requires a license from the government. Unauthorized possession can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.