Last Updated: February 23, 2024
Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should reconsider travel to Mauritania due to crime and terrorism. The travel advisory suggests travelers do not travel to areas designated as off limits by the Mauritanian military due to crime and terrorism which includes all areas north of the Tropic of Cancer and all areas east of 08⁰ longitude (West of Greenwich) situated within 100km of the Mali Border. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.
The Institute for Economics & Peace Global Peace Index 2023 ranks Mauritania 114 out of 163 worldwide, rating the country as being at a medium state of peace.
Crime Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nouakchott as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Mauritania, indicating that there may be widespread violent crime and/or organized crime present in the country, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.
The crime emergency line in Mauritania is 117. Review the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.
Crime: General Threat
The Mauritanian government reports an increase in violent (e.g., murder, assault, battery, robbery, occupied burglary, kidnapping, carjacking) and non-violent (e.g., theft, vehicle burglary, vandalism, unoccupied burglary) crimes since 2015, all of which predominately affects Mauritanians. Criminals tend to not target Westerners specifically, although U.S. nationals and other western expatriates have been the victim of crime in Nouakchott in recent years, including robbery and sexual assault. Criminal gangs are active in the main cities.
The Mauritanian government has taken small measures to mitigate crime. For example, the National Guard and Gendarmerie patrol the highest-crime neighborhoods, particularly in southern Nouakchott. It is difficult to verify governmental claims of progress in crime reduction initiatives.
Instances of street crime and crimes of opportunity are also on the rise in Nouakchott. Typical street crimes include pickpocketing, purse snatching, mobile phone theft, theft from vehicles, and mugging. There are also reports of pedestrians flagging down motorists (a common type of ride sharing) to steal their vehicle or belongings. Similar risks of crime exist in Nouadhibou, Rosso, and other Mauritanian cities, but data is not available.
The Global Organized Crime Index is a tool designed to measure levels of organized crime in a given country and assess its resilience to organized criminal activity. The most recent index ranks Mauritania 125 out of 193 worldwide for criminality, with 1 being the worst possible ranking; and 169 out of 193 worldwide for resilience, with 1 being the best possible ranking.
Crime: Areas of Concern
Nouakchott’s southern and eastern areas are more prone to criminality, and designated as “no walking areas” by the U.S. Embassy. The U.S. Embassy prohibits its employees from walking in these restricted zones, and walking after dark is restricted in the entire city.
The safer walking area, per the Embassy, is generally coterminous with the Nouakchott neighborhoods and suburbs of Centre Emetteur, F-Nord, E-Nord, Tevragh Zeina, Las Palmas, and Giz. These locations are clustered in the center of Nouakchott and include most embassies, major businesses, governmental administrative offices, the stadium, the most popular restaurants among Westerners, and all U.S. diplomatic residences. (Because a neighborhood is safer does not mean there is no chance of crime; continue to take appropriate precautions in all areas.) Of note, the international airport and Sultan beach are to the north of the safe solo walking area, but can be reached by vehicle without significant safety concerns.
Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, and Taking Credit.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Mauritania. Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.
Westerners are at an elevated risk of kidnapping in Mauritania, especially in the restricted eastern regions of the country. In 2005 and 2011, kidnappers took numerous Westerners, many of whom ended up in the hands of Mali-based terrorist groups. However, there have been no kidnappings of Europeans or U.S. nationals in Mauritania since 2011.
Drug Crime
The country is a transshipment point for concentrated cannabis (hashish) that originates in Morocco and moves through Mauritania on its way to markets in Europe, the Persian Gulf, and the Levant. Mauritania has also seen a recent uptick in drug trafficking from South and Central American through Mauritanian ports. There is a small problem with domestic cannabis use, and a perceived growing problem of cocaine use. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime estimates that up to 1/3 of young people consume some form of recreational drug. The national police have a unit that conducts anti-drug education and monitors national trafficking and abuse trends.
Consult with the CIA World Factbook’s section on Illicit Drugs for country-specific information.
Terrorism Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nouakchott as being a MEDIUM-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Mauritania, indicating that terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist. Review the latest State Department Country Report on Terrorism for Mauritania.
The Institute for Economics & Peace Global Terrorism Index 2023 ranks Mauritania 87 out of 163 worldwide, rating the country as having a low impact from terrorism.
Terrorism: General Threat
From 2005 to 2011, Mauritania suffered from terrorist attacks and kidnappings by terrorist groups, but there have been no attacks in the country since 2011. Al-Qa’ida-linked groups are active in neighboring Mali; the recent increase of terrorist activity in Mali and Burkina Faso means there is a continued risk of spillover into Mauritania due to the country’s lengthy shared borders with Mali.
There have been numerous cases of Mauritanians self-radicalizing and pledging allegiance to violent extremist organizations. Authorities have arrested and incarcerated those who have done so publicly. In 2016, Mauritanian security forces arrested three ISIS sympathizers in Nouakchott; 13 other suspected ISIS members are currently awaiting trial. The government works with the United States and other partners on programs to address violent extremism.
On March 5, 2023, four AQIM affiliated prisoners broke out of the Central Prison in Nouakchott after killing two prison guards. The prisoners led Police on a 6-day manhunt which culminated in a gunfight with the Gendarmerie in the desert near Adrar resulting in the deaths of three of the prisoners and the apprehension of the fourth. Additionally, a member of the National Gendarmerie was killed during the battle.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nouakchott as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Mauritania. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
Mauritania has experienced more than ten coup attempts since attaining independence from France in 1960. In 2019, Mauritania experienced its first peaceful and democratic transfer of power since independence when President Mohamed Ould Abdel Asis departed office. However, many members of the former administration, including the former president, have been charged with corruption.
Mauritania will hold presidential elections in June 2024, where President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani is running for a second, 5-year term.
Protest & Demonstration Activity
Political and student organizations frequently hold demonstrations inside Nouakchott city limits. These demonstrations often focus on Israel/Palestine, the French government, or human rights issues. Despite thousands of demonstrators at a given event, the demonstrations are usually strongly regulated by the local government. Significant levels of violence at these demonstrations are uncommon. Since October of 2023, there has been a significant increase in the number of peaceful pro-Gaza protests/mass rallies in Nouakchott. Many of these have occurred at the U.S. Embassy.
While the vast majority of political protests in Nouakchott are peaceful, there were a number of violent protests in 2023 in response to two separate incidents where young men had died in police custody. These violent protests were generally limited to the southern and eastern neighborhoods of Nouakchott.
Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.
Law Enforcement Concerns: Security Agencies
The National Safety Agency (Sureté Nationale) is responsible for law enforcement and crime investigation in urban areas, and falls under the authority of the Interior Ministry. Sureté Nationale is organized into commissariats, roughly the equivalent of U.S. police precincts.
Law enforcement activities in small towns and rural areas are the responsibility of the Gendarmerie, which patrols the major highways and operates most of the checkpoints throughout the country. The Gendarmerie is part of the Defense Ministry.
The National Guard (Guard Nationale) falls under the Interior Ministry, but is a part of the Mauritanian armed forces. The National Guard protects vital installations and ministries, VIP security, maintaining order, and prison management.
The General of Road Security Group (GGSR) is also under the Interior Ministry. Its responsibilities include urban vehicle control and searches, control of main roads, enforcement of traffic laws, management of vehicle documents, registration, and control of people transiting the country.
Although phone numbers for reporting crimes to local authorities do exist, visitors should, whenever possible, present themselves in person at the nearest police station or Gendarmerie brigade. U.S. victims of crime should also contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) section of the U.S. Embassy.
Police Response
Police response in Nouakchott, especially in outlying areas, is slow at best. Police rarely have access to vehicles. In most cases, a victim must appear at a police station or give officers a ride to the scene of a crime to obtain law enforcement services.
Persons of Black African appearance may be subject to prejudicial treatment by Mauritanian authorities.
Very few law enforcement officials speak English; knowledge of French or Hassaniya is helpful to speak with police officers. However, U.S. citizens receive favorable treatment from Mauritanian law enforcement; most government agencies recognize the financial and infrastructure contributions provided by U.S. businesses and the U.S. government. As a result, law enforcement officials may extend some measure of additional courtesy to U.S. citizens.
There have been instances of authorities singling foreigners out for questioning and detention. All visitors should carry a passport or other form of official identification. If Mauritanian authorities detain or arrest you, cooperate fully and insist that they allow you to contact the U.S. Embassy immediately. Remain calm and respectful at all times in these situations.
Law Enforcement Concerns: Emergency Contact/Information
The emergency lines in Mauritania are 116 for Gendarmerie, 117 for Police, 118 for Fire, and 119 for Traffic Police.
Transportation Security
Road Safety
Driving in Mauritania can be extremely dangerous. Traffic rules and driver etiquette differ considerably from U.S.-style rules of the road. Many Mauritanians drive without regard for speed limits, traffic signs, or stoplights. It is common for drivers to brush up against adjacent vehicles as they jockey for lane position. Drivers switch lanes without first checking for the presence of other vehicles. Drivers pass illegally on shoulders and may nudge other motorists when coming back onto the roadway. Drivers frequently make turns from the wrong lane, fail to maintain their lane, drive on the wrong side of the road, obstruct traffic, and drive too fast or too slow for the prevailing conditions. This blatant disregard for basic safety leads to frequent vehicle crashes and injuries to drivers and passengers. To reduce the likelihood of accident or injury, assume a defensive driving posture. This often means yielding the right of way to drivers that are more aggressive. As such, it is important to factor in additional driving time when attending meetings or making appointments.
Additionally, roadway obstructions and hazards caused by drifting sand, animals, and poor maintenance often plague motorists. Pedestrians often attempt to cross busy streets without waiting for cross traffic to slow or stop. Traffic police frequently sleep at their posts or are distracted by their phones. They often stand in positions that further complicate driving. Beggars and hawkers may also block vehicles or attempt to open vehicle doors. Only the main roads are paved, and many of these are in a state of disrepair. The placement of traffic signs, timing of traffic lights, and layout of the roads show little evidence of good civil engineering practices. Traffic lights frequently malfunction, and signage may provide dubious information to drivers. These hazards, when combined with the number of untrained drivers and unroadworthy vehicles, make heightened caution imperative. Drive with extreme vigilance, and always wear a seat belt. Avoid nighttime driving.
Do not travel alone into the desert or after dark outside of major urban areas due to road safety concerns. Overland travel is difficult, and roadside assistance is non-existent. The country’s size (larger than Texas and New Mexico combined) and its harsh climate make road maintenance and repair especially problematic. Vehicle services are infrequent outside of Nouakchott, and many fuel stations in the interior only sell diesel fuel, meaning gasoline is unavailable in many places. Fixed police and gendarmerie checkpoints exist on the outskirts of every city, and random checkpoints are common in urban and rural areas alike.
Four major roads leave Nouakchott, all of which have two asphalt lanes. Due to the sparse vegetation and a lower population density north of Nouakchott, travel along the roads toward Nouadhibou and Atar is slightly safer than travel to the east or south. The Road of Hope and the road to Rosso frequently run through villages and livestock grazing land and have steep drops at the edge of the roadway. These features, combined with rapid changes in elevation, often limit visibility and create driving hazards. The road to Rosso is under renovation and in poor condition. Even small amounts of rain can make paved roads impassable for cars without high clearance – even in Nouakchott – as drainage systems in the city are dysfunctional. Plan on this route requiring extra time.
The government of Mauritania designates certain areas as off limits to foreigners and most Mauritanians. Monitor information from the Mauritanian Interior and Defense Ministries regarding these “No Movement Zones.”
U.S. government employees may only travel outside Nouakchott during daylight hours. They must travel in convoys of at least two vehicles when traveling outside of Nouakchott, and must remain in groups throughout the duration of travel. The U.S. government’s ability to assist U.S. citizens – even in emergencies – is limited in Mauritania due to security concerns and the country’s lack of infrastructure.
The U.S. Embassy allows travel outside of the city for staff members, but all trips require a minimum of two vehicles, multiple means of communication, spare tires, off-road recovery kits, and adequate food and water. Private travelers should have a local guide, along with at least one additional vehicle in case of breakdown. A GPS receiver and satellite phone are essential when traveling in remote areas. The telecommunications infrastructure, including cellular telephone coverage, is limited. Give an itinerary to a friend or relative with instructions to alert proper authorities if communication from the travelers is significantly overdue.
For detailed, country-specific road and vehicle safety information, read the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Road Safety.
Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety in Africa, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.
Public Transportation Safety
Public transportation is not safe in Mauritania, particularly in the interior. Taxis and public transportation are not secure forms of transportation for western visitors. The U.S. Embassy does not permit its personnel to use public transportation; visitors should likewise avoid it. Almost all taxis and other forms of public transportation are unregulated and in poor condition. Sexual assaults have occurred at night in taxicabs. Refuse rides from strangers; subjects offering rides have lured victims into their vehicles for sexual assault.
Aviation Concerns
The Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC) opened in 2016 on the outskirts of the city. The Gendarmerie provides security services for the airport, which makes it one of the safest public facilities in Nouakchott. Passengers and visitors must show photo identification to enter the airport, and then must pass through metal detectors before checking in. Additionally, security personnel x-ray all luggage and other bags before entering the airport.
Flights are routinely late, and luggage is frequently lost. Authorities scan all luggage when exiting the airport, confiscating all alcohol and pork products.
Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights; and consider the European Union Air Safety List.
Maritime Security
Consult with the Stable Seas Maritime Security Index for detailed information and ratings regarding rule of law, law enforcement, piracy, and other maritime security indicators.
Personal Identity & Human Rights Concerns
Significant human rights issues include credible reports of harsh and life-threatening prison conditions; arbitrary arrests; serious restrictions on free expression and media, including criminal blasphemy laws; serious government corruption; lack of investigation and accountability for gender-based violence including rape, domestic violence, female genital mutilation/cutting, sexual exploitation and abuse, and other forms of such violence; trafficking in persons, including continued existence of slavery and slavery-related practices; crimes involving violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or intersex persons; and some of the worst forms of child labor.
Safety Concerns for Women Travelers
Rape of women is illegal. The law does not address rape of men. Rapists who are single men face penalties of imprisonment, forced labor, and whipping; married rapists are subject to the death penalty, although this penalty has not been enforced since 1987. The government increasingly enforces prison sentences for convicted rapists, but prosecution remains unevenly applied. Nevertheless, as in years past, wealthy rape suspects reportedly avoid prosecution or, if prosecuted, avoid prison. It is common for the families of the rape survivor to reach an agreement with the perpetrator in the form of monetary compensation.
Rape survivors were discouraged from reporting the crime because they themselves could be jailed for having intercourse outside of marriage. Reliable data on gender-based violence remains sparse, and the situation of children and women who are survivors of abuse is poorly documented. The subject remains taboo due to social mores and traditional norms, which often calls for survivors to be rejected by their family and society.
There are no laws against sexual harassment. Women’s NGOs reported that sexual harassment was a common problem in the workplace.
Spousal abuse and domestic violence are illegal, but there are no specific penalties for domestic violence. The government does not enforce the law effectively, and convictions are rare.
Police and the judiciary occasionally intervene in domestic abuse cases, but women rarely seek legal redress, relying instead on family, NGOs, and community leaders to resolve their domestic disputes. NGOs report that, in certain cases, they seek police assistance to protect victims of domestic violence, but police decline to investigate.
The Solo Female Travel Safety Index combines the experiences of solo female travelers with other reliable indices to award a single rating indicating the relative security female travelers might experience in a given country. The qualitative portion of the index examines risk of scam, theft, and harassment, as well as the country’s perceived attitude towards women. As of the date of this report’s publication, Mauritania has a score of 3.1 on a scale of 1.0 (safest) to 4.0 (least safe). All solo female travelers are able to share their solo travel experiences by signing up with the Solo Female Travelers portal; the organization draws qualitative data from women traveling solo, depending on active participation and honest information.
Consider composite scores given to Mauritania by the UN Development Program (UNDP) in its Gender Development Index, measuring the difference between average achievement in three basic dimensions of human development, and Gender Inequality Index, measuring inequality in achievement in reproductive health, empowerment, and the labor market. For more information on gender statistics in Mauritania, see the World Bank's Gender Data Portal.
Review the State Department’s webpage for female travelers.
Safety Concerns for LGBTI+ Travelers
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Mauritania. If convicted of homosexual acts, the law sentences men to death by stoning and women to imprisonment (ranging from three months to two years) and a fine. The government does not actively enforce these measures. The LGBTI+ community is rarely identified or discussed, which observers attribute to the severity of the stigma and the legal penalties attached to such labels. There are no organizations advocating for sexual orientation or gender-identity rights in the country.
LGBTI+ individuals routinely face harassment from the National Police, the General Group for Road Safety, neighbors, and family members. No laws protect the LGBTI+ community from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics. Members of the community face discrimination from some health-care personnel, including denial of service.
The country does not permit individuals to change their gender identity marker on legal and identifying documents to bring them into alignment with their gender identity.
The Equaldex Equality Index measures the status of LGBTI+ rights, laws, and freedoms, as well as public attitudes towards LGBTI+ people around the world. As of this report’s publication date, Mauritania has a score of 8/100, ranking 189 out of 198 countries on the index.
Consider information from Destination Pride, a data-driven search platform associated with PFLAG Canada that visualize the world's LGBTQ+ laws, rights, and social sentiment; as well as from ILGA World, a worldwide federation that produces an annual map showing sexual orientation laws from around the world, available in multiple languages.
Review OSAC’s report, Supporting LGBT+ Employee Security Abroad, and the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI travelers.
Safety Concerns for Travelers with Disabilities
The law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities. The law provides for access to information and communication, and to existing public buildings through retrofitting and future buildings through amendments to the building code. Authorities do not enforce the law, and persons with disabilities generally do not have access to buildings, information, and communications.
While in Mauritania, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what they find in the United States. There are very few sidewalks or paved roads, and few buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.
Safety Concerns for Travelers Based on Race, Religion, & Ethnicity
Racism remains a prevalent problem in Mauritania. In 1981, Mauritania became the world’s last country to outlaw slavery. Yet, the country did not enact criminal laws enforcing the ban on slavery until 2007. Taking legal action on slavery cases is notoriously difficult in Mauritania, but in 2019, authorities prosecuted three Mauritanians under anti-slavery legislation.
Persons of Black African appearance may be subject to prejudicial treatment by the Mauritanian authorities. Haratine and sub-Saharan ethnic groups face governmental discrimination, while the Beydane ethnic group receives governmental preference. For example, individuals living in Western Sahara (who are of Beydane ethnicity) easily obtain national identity cards required to vote, although they are not legally qualified to do so because they are not citizens. Meanwhile, Haratine (Arab slave descendants) and sub-Saharan (non-Arab) citizens often have great difficulty obtaining national identity documents.
Mauritania is an Islamic republic by law. Islamic ideals and beliefs in Mauritania encourage conservative dress and behavior. Remain mindful when traveling with personal religious publications. Consider local laws and customs before making religious statements in public places or engaging in Islam-related debate in public. Religious freedom is restricted and affronts against Islamic modesty and morals carry penalties ranging from fines to the death penalty. Mauritania recognizes Islam as the sole religion of its citizens and the state; any oral or written communication the authorities deem to be proselytism is illegal and may lead to deportation, arrest, prosecution, or incarceration. Participation in Christian gatherings and activities that have not been authorized by the Mauritanian government is illegal. Apostasy is punishable by death.
Review the latest U.S Department of State Report on International Religious Freedom for country-specific information.
Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith-based travelers.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
Sentiments towards U.S. nationals and the U.S. government are mixed. As the first country to recognize Mauritania’s independence in 1960, and with a strong record of humanitarian and other support as Mauritania struggled in its early years, the United States continues to enjoy considerable goodwill. However, perceptions of U.S. policy as being anti-Islam and pro-Israel have led to sporadic protests and other displays of anti-U.S. sentiment. The U.S. decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and move its embassy to Jerusalem was very unpopular and sparked protest. Additionally, there have been frequent pro-Gaza since October 2023. While they all have generally remained peaceful, some protestors have displayed anti-American sentiment via chants, banners, and flag burning (American and Israeli.) One local restaurant was also noted to have installed an American flag decal on the floor of their entrance, inviting patrons to walk over it when entering.
Concerns involving the Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption &/or Transparency
The law provides criminal penalties for corruption by government officials, but authorities do not enforce the law effectively, and officials often engage in corrupt practices with impunity. There are reports of government corruption. The law defines corruption as “all exploitation by a public agent of his position for personal purposes, whether this agent is elected, or in an administrative or judicial position.” Recently the country initiated its first-ever parliamentary investigation into corrupt practices under the previous regime.
The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Mauritania 130 out of 180 worldwide, where 1 means most transparent.
The World Justice Project Rule of Law Index measures how the rule of law is experienced and perceived worldwide based on surveys in 142 countries and jurisdictions, and is the leading source for original, independent data on the rule of law. The most recent index ranks Mauritania 133 out of 142 worldwide, where 1 means the strongest perceived rule of law.
Communication Issues
Independent media is active and expresses a wide variety of views with limited restrictions. Incidents of government retaliation against media have decreased significantly since the 2019 presidential election. Independent media are the principal source of information for most citizens, followed by government media. Government media focuses primarily on official news but is providing increased coverage of opposition activities and views.
The government rarely restricts or disrupts access to the internet or censored online content, and there is no evidence that the government monitors private online communications without appropriate legal authority.
Freedom of speech is generally respected, but the government sometimes uses provisions prohibiting racial or ethnic propaganda to target individuals that it accuses of “promoting national disunity.”
The Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index ranks Mauritania 86 out of 180 worldwide, where 1 means most freedom. The Freedom House Freedom in the World report rates Mauritania’s freedom of speech as partly free.
Review OSAC’s report, Lèse Majesté: Watching what you say (and type) abroad.
Health Concerns
Mauritania is a medically austere environment. Modern emergency medical services and hospitals do not exist in Mauritania. Medical and dental facilities in Mauritania do not approach Western standards. There are no Western mortuary services available in Mauritania.
Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on health insurance overseas.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Mauritania. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the State Department’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.
Vaccinations
Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.
Issues Traveling with Medications
Patronize local pharmacies with caution. Many medicines are difficult to obtain or may be counterfeit. Carry your own medical supplies, medications, and prescription eyewear.
Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.
Water Quality
The local water supply is not potable. Drink bottled, distilled, or other processed water instead.
Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Environmental Hazards
As a Saharan country, where drought conditions are common, adequate and consistent access to water is a constant concern. Paradoxically, the streets flood when it rains (August-November), often resulting in pools of standing water that persist for weeks until the city pumps them out or the water evaporates. These pools of water pose vehicular hazards and can create sizable potholes and bogs; as well as public health hazards, as they provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes. During the rainy season, pedestrians and children -- who often play near or in the pools -- are at highest risk of increased exposure to mosquito-borne illnesses.
Mauritania does not provide air quality data to the public. However, air quality in Mauritania is similar to that of neighboring Senegal, which does provide daily data. Air quality is usually better from June through October, and worsens from October through March; January, February, and March are often the worst months. Dust, debris, smoke from burning trash and unregulated vehicle emissions contribute to poor air quality in Mauritania. Limit environmental exposure as much as possible, especially during the winter months, when sandstorms are frequent. If caught in a sandstorm, take shelter in a building or vehicle with all windows closed.
Cybersecurity Concerns
Mauritania passed its first-ever data privacy laws in 2017. The laws created a national authority for the protection of personal information. There is now a standard format and appropriate institution charged with maintaining the security and confidentiality of personal data, although statistics related to enforcement actions and agency effectiveness are not yet available.
Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.
Counterintelligence Issues
Intelligence gathering by the host country is not generally directed at the United States or its interests, though there is an increasingly strong influence in the region from China and Russia.
Other Security Concerns
Landmines
Mauritania has been a member of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production, and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction since 2000. After years of de-mining programs, Mauritania was officially declared free of anti-personnel mines in 2018.
Import/Export Restrictions
Passengers caught attempting to import alcoholic drinks or pork products, including alcohol bought duty free on an inbound flight, may be subject to immediate fines, confiscation, and/or incarceration.
The local currency, the ouguiya, may not be imported or exported.
A country-specific listing of items goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.
Photography
Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.
ID Requirements
The Mauritanian law requires a local license for anyone driving in the country. A resident card is required for foreigners staying and working in the country.
Critical Infrastructure Concerns
Roads are in poor condition, drainage is limited, and overall construction quality is poor compared to U.S. standards. Mauritania suffers from weak telecommunications infrastructure. While Mauritania has three 3G communication networks, but coverage and service remain limited – particularly for mobile data usage and internet access.
Credit cards are in use only at a few hotels in the capital, and in the northwestern city of Nouadhibou. Travelers should strongly consider paying hotel bills in cash. ATMs are available in Nouakchott and other large cities, but are not secure.
OSAC Country Chapters
Nouakchott launched its Country Chapter in 2017. The Chapter is currently inactive.
Contact OSAC’s Africa team with any questions.
Embassy Contact Information
U.S. Embassy: Nouadhibou Road, Avenue Al Quds, NOT PRTZ; located at the intersection of Nouadhibou highway and Rue de l’Ambassade du Senegal. Tel: +222-4525-2660; Emergency Consular Recording (messages during emergencies): +222-4525-3707. Hours: 0800-1800 Monday-Thursday; 0800-1200 Friday.
Trustworthy News Sources
There are no identified trustworthy local media sources.
Other Helpful Info
