Verified Facts

Official NameIslamic Republic of Mauritania
CapitalNouakchott
Population4.9 million
Area1,030,700 km² (397955 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic
CurrencyMauritanian ouguiya (UM)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

GDP per Capita (PPP)$7,369 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.5% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$92 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend43.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.7% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data

The cost of transportation in Mauritania can vary greatly depending on the mode of transport and the distance traveled, with a monthly transit pass costing around $15 USD and a taxi start rate of approximately $1 USD.

Quick Facts

Monthly Transit Pass($15 USD)
Taxi Start Rate($1 USD)
Fuel (per liter)($1.20 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available(Yes — apps like Careem and Bolt)
CurrencyMRU

Getting Around Overview

Mauritania has a limited but developing transportation network, with most people relying on taxis, buses, and minibuses to get around. The quality of public transit varies between cities, with the capital city of Nouakchott having a more extensive network of buses and taxis compared to other cities. In rural areas, transportation options are limited, and many people rely on walking or using donkeys and camels to travel short distances.

The main transportation modes in Mauritania include taxis, buses, and minibuses, which are widely available in cities and towns. However, the quality of the roads and the condition of the vehicles can vary greatly, making travel times unpredictable. Many people also use ride-hailing apps like Careem and Bolt, which are available in major cities and offer a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Public Transportation

Transport TypeSingle Fare (USD)Monthly Pass (USD)Notes
City Bus$0.50$10Limited coverage, mostly in Nouakchott
Metro / SubwayN/AN/ANot available
Minibus / Shared Taxi$0.50-$1.00N/ARoutes vary, mostly in urban areas
Commuter TrainN/AN/ANot available

Taxi & Ride-Hailing

ServiceBase Fare (USD)Per km (USD)Typical City Ride (USD)Notes
Metered Taxi$1.00$0.50$3-$5Negotiation common
Ride-Hailing App$1.50$0.25$5-$7Careem and Bolt available
Airport TransferN/AN/A$10-$15To city center, taxi or private car

Fuel & Driving Costs

ItemCost (USD)Notes
Gasoline (per liter)$1.20
Diesel (per liter)$1.10
Car Rental (per day)$40-$60Economy car, 4x4 recommended
Parking (per hour, city)$1-$2Limited parking options
Toll Roads (typical)$5-$10Limited toll roads, mostly in Nouakchott

Intercity & Long-Distance

Route TypeCost Range (USD)Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs)$10-$20Limited routes, mostly on paved roads
Domestic Flight$100-$200Typical route, Nouakchott to Nouadhibou
Train (long-distance)N/ANot available

Transport Tips

  • Use ride-hailing apps like Careem and Bolt for convenient and affordable transportation in major cities.
  • Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey, as meters are not always used.
  • Be prepared for unpredictable travel times due to road conditions and traffic.
  • Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle for travel outside of cities, as road conditions can be challenging.
  • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps for airport transfers to ensure a safe and reliable journey.
  • Always wear a seatbelt and follow local traffic rules to ensure a safe journey.
Related Cost Guides: Cost of Living Overview · Monthly Budget · Rent & Housing · Economy · Mauritania vs Western Sahara