- Currency UM Mauritanian Ouguiya (UM)
- Language Arabic
- Visa —
- Plug Type C · 220V
- Best time —
- Safety Check FCDO FCDO →
Where the Sahara meets the Atlantic. Mauritania offers epic desert dunes, ancient caravan towns and the legendary iron-ore train ride.
Read more
Mauritania is a vast Saharan nation where golden dunes roll to the Atlantic coast. It's a land of ancient caravan cities, nomadic heritage and some of the emptiest, most cinematic landscapes on Earth.
This is raw soft adventure: camel treks between UNESCO-listed desert towns, birdwatching on a wild Atlantic shore, and a ride on the world's longest train across the open Sahara.
Travel here is deeply experiential and community-led, centred on nomadic hospitality and desert culture. As with much of the Sahel, check current UK travel advice and plan carefully before you go.
Weather & timing in Mauritania RIGHT NOW 33° clear
Best Dec–Jan, Jul · Shoulder Feb, Apr–May
- Jan 6° / -4°
- Feb 8° / -2°
- Mar 12° / 2°
- Apr 18° / 8°
- May 24° / 14°
- Jun 28° / 18°
- Jul 30° / 20°
- Aug 28° / 18°
- Sep 24° / 14°
- Oct 18° / 8°
- Nov 12° / 2°
- Dec 8° / -2°
Nature, culture & hidden gems
Editorial content coming soon
We're hand-picking the standout places, hidden gems and can't-miss activities in Mauritania. Meanwhile, the cities above are a great starting point.