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Soninké women
Getting there
The gateway is Nouakchott, the ca-
pital. Oumtounsy International Airport
(NKC) receives regular flights from
Paris, Istanbul, Casablanca, Las Pal-
mas, and several African capitals.
The main airlines: Turkish Airlines, Air
France, Royal Air Maroc, Tunisair, Air
Mauritania, and Binter.
From Europe, direct flights take be-
tween 4 and 6 hours, depending on
the departure point.
Visa requirements
The visa is processed directly upon
arrival at Nouakchott airport.
Price: around €55 (in cash). Pass-
port must be valid for at least 6 mon-
ths.
It’s recommended to bring a printed
copy of your accommodation or tour
booking, in case you’re asked for it.
Getting around
Distances are great and roads are
scarce. The best option is to travel
by 4x4 with a driver/guide, especially
in the north and the interior.
There are limited domestic flights,
mainly between Nouakchott and
Nouadhibou, but not to key tourist
destinations such as Chinguetti or
the Adrar.
Desert Train
It departs daily from Zouérat or
Choum towards Nouadhibou. Open
freight wagons, no reservations or
fixed schedules. Bring protection
against dust, a sleeping bag, water,
food, and some warm clothing—de-
sert nights are cold.
Where to sleep
In the main cities (Nouakchott, Nouad-
hibou, Atar): simple and functional ho-
tels, with limited international options.
In the rest of the country: guesthou-
ses, local homes, khaïmas (nomad
tents), or camps. The basics: bed,
shower, hospitality.
Bookings are usually made through a
local operator or a travel agency
What to bring
Light, breathable clothing that covers
the body: the sun is relentless, and
the setting is conservative.
Sunglasses, cap or hat, high-factor
sunscreen, and a scarf (for dust).
A headlamp, lightweight sleeping
bag, toilet paper, and a basic first aid
kit.
Universal adapter: type C/E plug (as
used in continental Europe), 220 V.
AUTHORS’ JOURNEYS
Typical cuisine
Typical dishes: thieboudienne (fish
with rice and vegetables), mechoui
(roast lamb), couscous with dates,
green tea with mint. On the coast,
fresh fish is excellent, plentiful, and
very cheap. Always drink bottled wa-
ter. Do not drink tap water or consume
ice in rural areas or while travelling.
When to go
From November to March: mild tem-
peratures (20–30 °C), cool nights,
clear skies. Ideal for exploring the
desert.
Avoid June to September: extreme
heat (up to 50 °C), sandstorms, and
lower visibility.
contact@ontm.gov.mr
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