Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mauritania
222 / POP 3.36 MILLION
Why Go?
If West Africa is a playground for overlanders, then Mauritania often seems to be little
more than a transit between the better-known attractions of Marrakesh, Dakar or Bamako.
That's a shame because Mauritania has some tremendous secrets to reveal.
Just as impressive as the cultural diversity is some of the continent's grandest scenery.
The Adrar region offers epic sand dunes, eye-popping plateaus and Africa's biggest mono-
lith. The Tagânt has similar charms, and both hide ancient (and World Heritage-listed)
caravan towns - Chinguetti, Ouadâne and Oualâta. The World Heritage feast continues
along the coast at Parc National du Banc d'Arguin, which attracts millions of migratory
birds and is a renowned birdwatching site.
If you just breeze through, you'll miss out on a truly incredible country. No one in Maur-
itania is in a rush, and you shouldn't be either.
When to Go
Nov-Mar
The most pleasant months to visit the desert, although nights can be cold.
Jun-Aug
The
rifi
(hot winds) send temperatures soaring to 45°C and above.
Jul-Sep
The short rainy season in Nouakchott can be prone to flooding after downpour.
Best Places to Eat
»
Restorante Galloufa (
Click here
)
»
Le Méditerranée (
Click here
)
