Backpacking or travelling in Mauritania?

• Mauritania, a beautiful country in the northwest of Africa. A country of deserts, sand, more sand, old trading cities and deserted beaches. There is little tourism, but that is all the more to discover. Be prepared for a unique travel experience with basic facilities.
• Spotting activities: climb the sand dunes in Adrar and sleep under the stars; take a train ride on the longest and heaviest train in the world from Nouadhibou to Zouérat; visit Chinguetti and see old manuscripts and libraries; spot birds in Banc d’Arguin National Park; look for whales off the coast of Nouadhibou; swim in the salt lakes of Sebkha Ndrhamcha; visit the old trading city of Oualata.
• Spotting animals: desert foxes, addax antelope, dromedaries, fennec, pelicans and flamingos, desert eagle, black ibis, gerenuks, white-throated swallows.
• Food spotting: thieboudienne, mechoui, bissap, cherchem, mint tea, yassa, labal, couscous, dates, zlabia.

Studying in Mauritania?

• If you want to study in Mauritania, you can think of Islamic studies, Arabic language and culture or perhaps even desert ecology. There are also other studies to be found.
• Study cities: Nouakchott, Nouadhibou.
• Language: Arabic, sometimes options in French.

Internship in Mauritania?

• Internships in Mauritania are especially interesting for students and professionals in the field of development cooperation, education, and nature conservation, or if you want to learn more about Islam and Arabic language and culture. Since the local economy and infrastructure are still developing, an internship here offers the opportunity to learn in challenging circumstances and gain valuable experience. However, it is not very easy to find an internship.
• Competencies: intercultural communication, Arabic language skills, creative thinking, adaptability.

Volunteering in Mauritania?

• Think about working with refugees or teaching English. Projects often take place in villages and remote areas and the work is often hands-on and has a direct impact on the local community.
• There are not many opportunities to be found.

Working in Mauritania?

• The largest industry is mining, which offers opportunities for professionals in this field. You may also be able to work for NGOs or international aid organizations, as an English teacher at an international school or as a healthcare professional.

Working as a digital nomad in Mauritania?

• Mauritania is not yet a well-known destination for digital nomads, mainly because of the limited infrastructure and relatively slow internet. But for those who enjoy a secluded, adventurous lifestyle, it is a unique place to work and live.
• Favorite locations: probably Nouakchott because of the amenities. Possibly also Nouadhibou.

Living in Mauritania?

• Living in Mauritania means living in a country of extreme contrasts: you will experience both desert and coastal life, and a unique mix of Arab and West African cultures. Nouakchott is the capital and offers most modern amenities, but don’t expect the luxury of other capitals. Life is simple, and for many foreigners, living here feels like a step back in time, but it has its own charm.
• Why, why not? It is a culturally unique and beautiful country, with incredibly friendly people and interesting music, festivals and nature, but it is also a tough country with an extreme climate and limited water supplies and infrastructure.
• Education: There are a few international schools in Nouakchott that offer education in English and French.
• Expat community: Small, but there are lots of things to do together.
• Safety: Although Mauritania is relatively safe, there are restrictions on travel to certain areas in the north and east due to safety concerns. In urban areas such as Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, it can be useful to stay alert, especially at night.
• Culture: The culture is deeply rooted in Islam and nomadic traditions. Guests are warmly welcomed, and drinking tea is a fixed ritual that symbolizes hospitality. Be aware of cultural customs and dress appropriately, especially outside the capitals.
• Climate: Mauritania has a desert climate: summers are extremely hot, especially in the Sahara region, while winter evenings can be chilly. The coast in Nouakchott is slightly milder, but here too it remains mostly warm and dry.
• Be aware: be aware of a different interpretation of time, which means that appointments are often more flexible. Learn some basic concepts in Arabic or French, as English is not widely spoken.
• Health insurance: healthcare is limited, so make sure you have your own comprehensive health insurance.

Stories, tips and experiences from Mauritania