Travel Advice
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Country Description

Mauritania is a developing country in northwestern Africa. It is a Muslim country in which people dress modestly. Sleeved garments are recommended, and shorts should be avoided.

Entry Requirements

A passport and a visa are required, as is evidence of a yellow fever vaccination. Travelers should obtain the latest information and details at the nearest Mauritanian Embassy or Consulate.

Areas of Instability

As a result of a past border conflict between Morocco and Western Sahara, there are reports of unexploded landmines in areas of Mauritania adjacent to Western Sahara. Exploding mines are occasionally reported and have caused death and injury. In addition, groups of tourists have been held up and robbed along the border with Morocco. Surface travel between Mali and Mauritania can be dangerous, since the border region has historically been plagued by banditry. Groups traveling to the Moroccan and Malian borders should check with their nearest local Embassy and/or local authorities to inform them of their itineraries and check the advisability of the planned trip routes.

Due to heightened security concerns, travelers in Nouakchott, the capital, are advised to avoid establishments known to be frequented by Americans. The beach area around Nouakchott should be avoided at night. During the day, beach-goers should travel in large groups.

Surface travel between Mauritania and Senegal is restricted to various designated border crossing-points: N'Diago, Diama, Rosso, Jerd El Mohguen, Tekane, Lekseiba, Boghe in the Brakna, M'Bagne and Kaedi in Gorgol, Tifounde Cive, Maghama and Goraye in Guidimaka.

Crime Information

Crime, while not high, is rising. Most incidents involve petty crime, such as pickpocketing and other crimes of opportunity, often resulting from improperly secured valuables left in vehicles in plain sight. Residential burglaries, robberies, and assaults also occur. Violent crimes and crimes involving use of weapons are rare, but are on the rise. In remote areas, hiring a vehicle and driver is advisable. If you rent a vehicle, keep all doors and windows closed and locked while driving.

Although U.S. citizens for the most part are welcomed in Mauritania, there were some reports of anti-American incidents (threats and stoning of vehicles) following the 1998 U.S. and British intervention in Iraq. Some Muslim extremists have sometimes perceived Christian non-governmental organizations as a threat. However, political violence and religious extremist groups are closely monitored by local authorities and, to date, do not pose a direct threat to U.S. interests in Mauritania.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the nearest Embassy or Consulate.

Medical Facilities

Medical facilities in Mauritania are limited. Some medicines are difficult to obtain. Travelers are advised to bring their own supplies. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.

Medical Insurance

Check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Other Health Information

Malaria prophylaxis and vaccination against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, typhoid, and meningococcal meningitis are recommended. Cholera certification may be required for entry. Children’s immunizations should be up-to-date.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions

The information below concerning Mauritania is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Poor
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair to Poor
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor to Nonexistent
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor to Nonexistent

Road conditions in Mauritania are generally poor, particularly in the interior, and overland travel is difficult. The country’s size and harsh climate make road maintenance and repair especially problematic. Mauritania possesses only about 2,070 km of surfaced roads, 710 km of unsurfaced roads and 5,140 km of unimproved tracks. There are four major roads, each of which links important cities in Mauritania: Nouakchott and Rosso; Nouakchott and Akjoujt; Aleg Boghe and Kaedi; and Nouakchott and Nema (the Road of Hope). Americans traveling overland for long distances in Mauritania should be sure to have an appropriate four-wheel drive vehicle, a local guide, adequate supplies of water, and a second fuel reservoir. A second vehicle is recommended in case of breakdown. Visitors are urged not to travel alone into the desert.

Traffic patterns differ considerably from American-style "Rules of the Road." Drivers and passengers should exercise great caution and wear seat belts at all times. Motorcycle and bicycle riders should wear helmets and protective clothing.

Criminal Penalties

While in a foreign country travellers are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in your home country. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe. Persons violating Mauritanian law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Mauritania are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Currency Regulations

Local currency may not be imported or exported. Credit cards, primarily American Express, can be used only at a few hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.

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