IziVisas
🇲🇷Mauritania
Africa· Updated 06/03/2026
Information
Capital
Nouakchott
Population
4,830,000
Currency
Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU UM)
Languages
Arabe, Français, Pulaar, Soninké
Continent
Africa
Calling code
+222
Timezone
Africa/Nouakchott
Area
1,030,700 km²
Government
Islamic Republic Presidential
National day
November 28 - Independence Day
Internet domain
.mr
About
Mauritania is a West African country in the Sahel region, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its vast desert, mining resources such as gold and iron, and emerging natural gas sector. The population is largely nomadic or semi-nomadic with a growing economy.
Safety
Risk level :High risk due to terrorism, crime, and instability in the north and east.
Risk areas
North and East (Tiris Zemmour, Adrar, Inchiri) - Terrorism and kidnappingsMali border - High terrorism riskNouakchott - Moderate crime
Crime(Medium)
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Do not display valuables
Terrorism(High)
- Avoid northern and eastern border areas
- Follow travel advisories
Transport
- Rent a 4x4 with driver
- Avoid night buses
Natural risks(Low, but seasonal floods and sandstorms)
- Check weather during the rainy season
Health(Limited healthcare system, under-equipped hospitals)
- Mandatory vaccines: yellow fever
- Bottled water, malaria prophylaxis
Practical tips
- Register with the consulate before departure
- Mandatory repatriation insurance
- Respect Islamic dress code
Cost of living
Accommodation
Studio city center150
1-bedroom apartment in city center250
1-bedroom apartment in suburb180
3-bedroom apartment in city center450
3-bedroom apartment in suburb350
Food
Inexpensive restaurant meal3
Meal for 2 mid-range restaurant15
McDonald's menu5
Local beer (0.5L)2
Cappuccino1.50
Water (1.5L)0.50
Bread (500g)0.50
Milk (1L)1
Eggs (12)1.50
Chicken (1kg)3
Apples (1kg)2
Bananas (1kg)1
Transport
Public transport ticket0.25
Monthly transport subscription10
Taxi ride (start)1
Taxi (1km)0.50
Gasoline (1L)0.80
Leisure
Fitness membership (monthly)30
Tennis court (1h weekend)10
Cinema5
Theater10
Health
General practitioner consultation10
Dentist consultation20
Antibiotic medications5
Cold medications (6 days)10
Others
High-speed internet (60 Mbps+)20
Mobile plan (calls + 10GB)10
Public services for 85m² apartment50
Jeans (Levis 501 or similar)30
Nike sports shoes50
International primary school (monthly)200
Practical information
Electricity
Voltage220V
Frequency50Hz
Plug typesType C, Type E
Emergency numbers
Police17
Ambulance25
Fire department18
Practical information
Driving side
Right
Tap water
unsafe
Tipping
Not common, 5-10% optional