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The cost of food in Mauritania can vary depending on the location, with prices in the capital city of Nouakchott tend to be higher than in other parts of the country, but on average, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around $3-5 USD.
Quick Facts
Food Costs Overview
Mauritania's food prices are generally higher than the regional average due to its landlocked location and reliance on imports. The country's inflation rate of 2.5% in 2024 also contributes to the increasing cost of food. However, the GDP per capita PPP of $7,369 in 2024 indicates a relatively stable economy, which can help mitigate the impact of price fluctuations. Eating out is not a common practice in Mauritania, and most people prefer to cook at home. This is partly due to the limited number of restaurants, especially outside of Nouakchott, and the relatively high cost of dining out.
The out-of-pocket health spend of 43.8% in 2023 is a significant burden for many households, which can affect their ability to afford food and other essential items. As a result, many people in Mauritania rely on traditional and locally sourced ingredients to prepare their meals. The education spend of 4.7% of GDP in 2023 is also relatively low, which can limit access to information about healthy eating and nutrition. Despite these challenges, the country's cuisine is rich and diverse, with a focus on meat, vegetables, and grains. Popular dishes include thieboudienne, a hearty fish and rice stew, and mechui, a slow-cooked meat dish.
Grocery Prices
| Item | Price (USD) | Local Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milk (1 liter) | $1.50 | 450 MRU | |
| Bread (white loaf) | $1.00 | 300 MRU | |
| Eggs (dozen) | $2.00 | 600 MRU | |
| Rice (1 kg) | $1.20 | 360 MRU | |
| Chicken breast (1 kg) | $4.00 | 1,200 MRU | |
| Beef (1 kg) | $6.00 | 1,800 MRU | |
| Apples (1 kg) | $3.00 | 900 MRU | imported |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | $1.50 | 450 MRU | |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | $1.20 | 360 MRU | |
| Onions (1 kg) | $1.00 | 300 MRU | |
| Local cheese (1 kg) | $5.00 | 1,500 MRU | |
| Water (1.5L bottle) | $1.00 | 300 MRU |
Restaurant Prices
| Meal Type | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food / Local Eatery | $2-5 | (typical dishes like thieboudienne) |
| Casual Restaurant | $5-10 | (one person, includes drink) |
| Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people) | $15-30 | (3 courses, includes drink) |
| Fine Dining (2 people) | $30-50 | (upscale, includes drink) |
| Local Beer (draft, 500ml) | $2-3 | |
| Imported Beer (330ml) | $4-6 | |
| Cappuccino | $2-4 | |
| Soft Drink (can) | $1-2 |
Supermarket vs Local Market
The prices of groceries can vary significantly between supermarkets and local markets in Mauritania. Supermarkets tend to be more expensive, but they offer a wider range of products, including imported goods. Local markets, on the other hand, offer fresh produce and traditional ingredients at lower prices. However, the quality and availability of products can vary greatly depending on the market and the season. It is generally recommended to buy fresh produce and meat at local markets, while canned goods and imported products are often cheaper at supermarkets.
When shopping at local markets, it is common to haggle over prices, especially for bulk purchases. This can help to reduce the cost of groceries and is an integral part of the local shopping culture. However, it is essential to be respectful and fair when negotiating prices, as the sellers are often small-scale farmers or traders who rely on their daily sales to make a living. In contrast, supermarkets tend to have fixed prices, and haggling is not common.
Local Food Tips
- The cheapest way to eat in Mauritania is to buy street food or local dishes at markets or from street vendors.
- Thieboudienne is a traditional dish made with fish, rice, and vegetables, and is often served at local restaurants and markets.
- Meat is a staple in Mauritanian cuisine, and chicken and beef are commonly consumed.
- Fresh produce is widely available at local markets, and fruits and vegetables are often cheaper than imported products.
- It is generally recommended to avoid buying imported products, as they can be expensive and may not be as fresh as local alternatives.
- Local cheese and yogurt are popular dairy products and are often cheaper than imported alternatives.