Attractions and Places To See in Mauritania - Top 7
Attractions and places to see in Mauritania include a blend of natural landscapes, ancient history, and cultural sites. This West African nation features the vast Sahara Desert meeting the Atlantic Ocean, offering diverse experiences. Visitors can explore ancient caravan cities, observe unique geological formations, and experience the country's coastal and desert environments.
Best attractions and places to see in Mauritania
- The most popular attractions is Nouakchott Fish Market, a settlement that offers a bustling and colorful experience. Visitors can observe fishermen bringing in their daily catch on painted wooden boats and find places to try fresh fish.
- Another must-see spot is Zouérat, a settlement whose history is linked to iron ore mining. It is the sixth largest city in Mauritania and the largest in the Tiris Zemmour administrative division.
- Visitors also love Accommodation: Bab Sahara Campement, a hut that offers a quiet and well-kept facility. It provides a place to stay for travelers passing through Atar.
- Mauritania is known for its desert landscapes, ancient cities, and coastal areas. The country offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical sites to natural wonders.
- The attractions in Mauritania are appreciated by the komoot community, with 17 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Zouérat
Highlight (Segment) • Settlement
In 1981 a second iron deposit was discovered at Guelb El Rhein, 35 km north of Zouérat, and in 1990 a third at Mhadaouat, 65 km from Zouérat.
The number of inhabitants increased continuously. In 1977 it was 17,947 and in 1988 it was already 25,892 people, by 2000 it had risen to 33,929. In 2005, an estimated 37,977 people lived in Zouérar, making it the sixth largest city in Mauritania and the largest city in the Tiris Zemmour administrative division.
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Accommodation: Bab Sahara Campement
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Beautiful, quiet, well-kept facility, managed by Justus and Leonie
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Nouakchott Fish Market
Highlight • Settlement
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Auberge Bioclimatique, about 100 km before Nouakchott.
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Rosso border crossing from Mauritania to Senegal
Highlight • Rest Area
No highlight, more of a warning from February 2022
There are special conditions for this border crossing:
A letter of recommendation from the Senegalese embassy in Nouakchott must be submitted in duplicate, original + photocopy. The letter is available free of charge from the Senegalese embassy. To do this, submit a handwritten request and a photocopy of your passport between 9:00 and 11:00 in the morning (photo page). The request must follow a specified wording. Tourist accommodations in Nouakchott (e.g. Triskell, just around the corner) as well as letter writing service providers at the embassy have a sample ready.
As a rule, you can pick up the letter from the embassy on the same day in the evening.
Make a photocopy of this letter.
Original + photocopy are handed in at the police counter when leaving Mauritania. The photocopy is retained, the original is stamped.
As soon as you have the Mauritania exit stamp in your passport, you can take the ferry to the Senegalese side. The ferry is free; two ships shuttle back and forth.
At the Senegalese border post, present your passport and the letter of recommendation from the Senegalese Embassy in Nouakchott. This document is now also stamped by the Senegalese side.
This regulation applies exclusively to the Rosso border crossing; for all other border crossings Mauritania/Senegal no letter of recommendation from the Senegalese embassy is required.
For a long time, travelers have complained about pushy helpers who want to offer you some kind of service in exchange for money, e.g. a ticket for the free ferry. It is best to only speak to people in uniform and ignore everyone else.
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Accommodation: Auberge chez Jamal
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Accommodation "Auberge des Caravanes" at the entrance to the village was deserted.
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Hotel Sahara
Highlight • Rest Area
Alternative: Hotel Oum Grein (or Aum Greiyn), cheaper but smells bad.
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Tips from the Community
Nice spot in Nouakchott! There is a lot of places where you can try some fish. When the boats arrive the coast you should be there an watch how they pull them off the water!
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We arrived here totally dehydrated. The friendly owners gave us water and soup! They also changed us money! You should stay when you pass through Atar.
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The best place to stay in Terjit! The owner Jamal and his stuff are very friendly and helpful. You can walk within a few minutes to the Oasis, have a bath and relax there to escape the heat.
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The history of the town of Zouérat is closely linked to the region's iron ore mining. A limited company was formed in 1952 to mine the iron deposits at Kediet Ijill. In 1958, the Société des mines de fer de Mauritanie (MIFERMA) received mining permits, and mining began in 1960. In 1974, Mifema was nationalized. In 1981 a second iron deposit was discovered at Guelb El Rhein, 35 km north of Zouérat, and in 1990 a third at Mhadaouat, 65 km from Zouérat. The number of inhabitants increased continuously. In 1977 it was 17,947 and in 1988 it was already 25,892 people, by 2000 it had risen to 33,929. In 2005, an estimated 37,977 people lived in Zouérar, making it the sixth largest city in Mauritania and the largest city in the Tiris Zemmour administrative division.
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Border crossing Rosse from Mauritania to Senegal No highlight, more of a warning from February 2022 There are special conditions for this border crossing: A letter of recommendation from the Senegalese embassy in Nouakchott must be submitted in duplicate, original + photocopy. The letter is available free of charge from the Senegalese embassy. To do this, submit a handwritten request and a photocopy of your passport between 9:00 and 11:00 in the morning (photo page). The request must follow a specified wording. Tourist accommodations in Nouakchott (e.g. Triskell, just around the corner) as well as letter writing service providers at the embassy have a sample ready. As a rule, you can pick up the letter from the embassy on the same day in the evening. Make a photocopy of this letter. Original + photocopy are handed in at the police counter when leaving Mauritania. The photocopy is retained, the original is stamped. As soon as you have the Mauritania exit stamp in your passport, you can take the ferry to the Senegalese side. The ferry is free; two ships shuttle back and forth. At the Senegalese border post, present your passport and the letter of recommendation from the Senegalese Embassy in Nouakchott. This document is now also stamped by the Senegalese side. This regulation applies exclusively to the Rosso border crossing; for all other border crossings Mauritania/Senegal no letter of recommendation from the Senegalese embassy is required. For a long time, travelers have complained about pushy helpers who want to offer you some kind of service in exchange for money, e.g. a ticket for the free ferry. It is best to only speak to people in uniform and ignore everyone else.
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An unbelievable hustle and bustle and a lot going on at the fish market. Colorful pirogues, fish everywhere, stalls, places to eat. I could go for a walk in peace and see everything.
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Auberge Bioclimatique, what an exaggerated advertisement for the 3 or 4 huts. But the room was clean and has a lightbulb; Mohammed and Ahmat served tea and cooked a simple meal.
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Hotel Sahara is a good hotel in Akjoujt. Restaurant, supermarket and bakery right next to it. Alternative: Hotel Oum Grein (or Aum Greiyn), cheaper but smells bad.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural wonders can I explore in Mauritania?
Mauritania offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Banc d'Arguin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major bird sanctuary on the Atlantic coast. The Adrar Plateau features stunning desert rock formations, shifting sand dunes, and oases like Terjit. Don't miss the unique geological formation known as the Richat Structure, or 'Eye of the Sahara', near Ouadane.
Are there any ancient historical sites to visit?
Yes, Mauritania is home to four UNESCO World Heritage ancient fortified towns (Ksour): Chinguetti, Ouadane, Tichitt, and Oualata. Chinguetti was once a vital center of Islamic culture and learning, known for its ancient mosques and libraries. Ouadane offers a glimpse into the past with its stone ruins and old houses.
What is there to see and do in the capital city, Nouakchott?
In Nouakchott, you can experience the vibrant Nouakchott Fish Market, where fishermen bring in their daily catch on colorful boats. The city also has the National Museum of Mauritania, lively markets like Marche Capitale, and the impressive Grande Mosquée.
What are some unique adventure experiences in Mauritania?
For an unforgettable adventure, consider riding the Mauritanian Iron Ore Train, which offers an epic journey across the Sahara Desert. You can ride in a passenger car or, for a more rugged experience, on top of the iron ore carts. The Adrar Plateau also provides opportunities for camel trekking and 4x4 tours.
What is the best time of year to visit Mauritania?
The best time to visit Mauritania is generally during the cooler, dry season, which typically runs from October to May. During these months, temperatures are more moderate, making desert excursions and exploring ancient cities more comfortable than the intense heat of the summer.
Are there any coastal attractions or wildlife viewing opportunities?
Absolutely. The Banc d'Arguin National Park is a critical breeding and stopover site for millions of migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans. Near Nouâdhibou, you can find one of the last remaining colonies of endangered monk seals on the Cap Blanc peninsula.
Where can I find accommodation when traveling through the Adrar region?
When passing through Atar, a gateway to the Adrar Plateau, you can find places like Accommodation: Bab Sahara Campement. It's known for being a quiet and well-kept facility, offering a comfortable stay for travelers.
What is the significance of Zouérat?
Zouérat is a settlement whose history is deeply tied to iron ore mining. It is the sixth largest city in Mauritania and the largest in the Tiris Zemmour administrative division, playing a crucial role in the country's mining industry.
Can I find lush oases in the desert?
Yes, the Terjit Oasis, hidden within the Adrar plateau, is a prime example. It's a lush haven amidst the arid Sahara, offering tranquility, abundant palm trees, and running water, providing a refreshing escape from the desert landscape.
What kind of desert landscapes can I expect to see?
Mauritania's desert landscapes are incredibly varied. Beyond the stony desert of the Adrar Plateau, you can experience the Amatlich Erg, a stunning sea of wind-swept sand dunes. This area is ideal for spectacular sunset views, sandboarding, or stargazing, offering a quintessential Saharan experience.
Are there any important wetland areas in Mauritania?
In addition to Banc d'Arguin National Park, Diawling National Park, located in the southern part of the country, is another important wetland area. It is part of the Senegal River delta and contributes significantly to the region's biodiversity.
What is the 'Cimetière de Bateaux' near Nouâdhibou?
Near Nouâdhibou, Mauritania's second-largest city, you can find the 'Cimetière de Bateaux' or 'Ship Graveyard'. This unique site features numerous abandoned vessels along the coast, creating a striking and somewhat eerie landscape that attracts curious visitors.
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