Verified Facts
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Mauritania before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Mauritania is a challenging destination for travelers, with a range of safety concerns that need to be carefully considered. The country has a high risk of petty crime, including pickpocketing, theft, and robbery, particularly in crowded areas and markets. Additionally, there is a moderate risk of violent crime, including armed robbery and banditry, especially in rural areas and at night. The risk of scams is also high, with many scams targeting tourists, including fake guides, overpriced goods, and corrupt officials.
Despite these risks, Mauritania is also a country with a rich culture and history, and many travelers visit without incident. The key to a safe and successful trip is to be well-informed, prepared, and aware of the potential risks. This includes taking necessary precautions, such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and being cautious when dealing with strangers. It's also essential to stay up to date with local conditions and to follow the advice of local authorities and your government's travel advisory.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nouakchott | Moderate | Be cautious of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas |
| Nouadhibou | Low | Generally safe, but beware of petty crime in markets |
| Atar | Moderate | Risk of banditry and armed robbery, especially at night |
| Chinguetti | Low | Generally safe, but be aware of limited medical facilities |
| Tichitt | Moderate | Risk of petty crime and scams, especially in rural areas |
| Western Border | High | Avoid traveling to the western border due to risk of terrorism and banditry |
| Eastern Border | Moderate | Be cautious of armed robbery and banditry, especially at night |
| Coastal Areas | Low | Generally safe, but beware of strong currents and riptides |
Common Risks & Scams
- Scams involving fake guides and tour operators, who may overcharge or provide poor services
- Petty crime, including pickpocketing, theft, and robbery, particularly in crowded areas and markets
- Armed robbery and banditry, especially in rural areas and at night
- Corruption and bribery, including demands for bribes from officials
- Overpriced goods and services, including food, accommodations, and transportation
- Risk of terrorism, particularly in the western border region
- Risk of kidnapping, particularly in rural areas
- Fake police and immigration officials, who may demand bribes or confiscate documents
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid are recommended, while meningitis and rabies are required for certain areas
- Water Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink, and bottled or filtered water is recommended
- Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are limited, especially outside of Nouakchott, and may not meet international standards
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacy access is limited, especially outside of major cities, and may not have a wide range of medications available
Practical Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and markets
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use credit cards or traveler's checks instead
- Keep valuables secure and consider using a hotel safe or a money belt
- Avoid traveling at night, especially in rural areas
- Be cautious when dealing with strangers, including taxi drivers and vendors
- Consider hiring a reputable guide or tour operator to help navigate the country
- Stay up to date with local conditions and follow the advice of local authorities and your government's travel advisory
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases, including "hello" and "thank you", to help interact with locals
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Be prepared for a conservative and traditional culture, and dress modestly to avoid offending locals
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in rural areas, and consider hiring a reputable guide or joining a group tour
- Be cautious when interacting with men, and avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers
- Consider staying in well-established hotels or guesthouses, and avoid staying in isolated areas
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas and markets