Official currency: Uguiya Mauritana (UM).
Official languages: Arabic (Hassaniya dialect) and French.
Documentation needed: valid passport and tourist visa.
Climate: Nouakchott has a completely desert climate. Normal temperatures are between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures range between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. However, during the summer months, highs rise to 45 degrees Celsius. Special attention must also be paid to the monsoon season in Africa, since rain clothes will be needed.
Vaccinations: although none are obligatory, yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, meningococcal meningitis, tetanus and diphtheria are recommended.
It has been the capital of Mauritania since 1957. One of the translations given to the name of this city is "land where shells abound".
Far from looking like a typical tourist destination, the city's beaches are known for their familiar and comfortable feel for locals and visitors alike.
Nouakchott harbour is one of the most visited places in the city. Many people come to see the fishermen's small boats which they have painted and decorated to their own taste, creating a colourful spectacle on the sandy beach.
Bargaining is a widespread practice throughout the country. In fact, if the customer does not want to negotiate, it can even be annoying for the sellers. The first price you will be quoted will usually be very high, reduce it considerably in your offer, and from then on, let yourself be drawn into the game.
Another very important recommendation has to do with drinking water. Never drink it from the tap and, when you order it in a restaurant, make sure that the bottle is not open. It is also a bad idea to eat unwashed fruit or uncooked food. It's not that anything serious will happen to you, it's just that our European stomachs are not used to it and may suffer some "uncomfortable" upset.
Bathing in the river is not at all advisable and, of course, avoid mosquito bites. The use of repellents is advisable.
They are a very hospitable people but many of them are not happy to be photographed or filmed and will let you know.
The sale and consumption of alcohol, as well as pork products, are prohibited in the Islamic Republic.
In Mauritania, discreet dress is appreciated.
