Things to Do in Mauritania in June

June Weather in Mauritania

42°C (108°F) High Temp

28°C (82°F) Low Temp

8mm (0.3 inches) Rainfall

35% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

Peak season for desert camping - nighttime temperatures drop to comfortable 25-28°C (77-82°F) making outdoor sleeping enjoyable
Minimal rainfall means reliable travel conditions with only 2 rainy days and crystal-clear stargazing opportunities
Traditional Mauritanian summer festivals including Nouakchott Cultural Week typically occur mid-June with music, poetry, and camel racing
Optimal wind conditions along the Atlantic coast create perfect kitesurfing weather with consistent 15-25 knot winds

Considerations

Extreme daytime heat of 42°C (108°F) limits outdoor activities to early morning (5-9am) and evening (after 6pm) hours only
Harmattan winds can bring sandstorms lasting 2-3 days, reducing visibility and making desert travel temporarily impossible
Tourist infrastructure operates on reduced summer schedules with some desert camps closing during peak heat hours 10am-5pm

Best Activities in June

Atlantic Coast Kitesurfing and Windsurfing

June brings consistent trade winds of 15-25 knots along Nouakchott's coastline, creating world-class conditions for wind sports. Ocean temperatures remain cool at 20-22°C (68-72°F) providing relief from inland heat. Morning sessions (6-10am) offer the best wind consistency before thermal effects kick in.

Booking Tip: Book equipment rental 5-7 days ahead through certified water sports centers. Daily rates typically run 8,000-12,000 MRU including gear. Look for PADI or IKO certified instructors. Check current options in booking section below.

Sahara Desert Stargazing Tours

June's dry air and minimal cloud cover create exceptional visibility for astronomy. The extreme temperature differential means spectacular sunrise/sunset experiences at 5:30am and 7:45pm. Desert camps offer traditional Mauritanian meals and Hassaniya music performances under the stars.

Booking Tip: Book multi-day desert expeditions 14-21 days ahead during summer months. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 MRU per person for 2-3 days including meals and camping gear. Ensure operators provide air-conditioned vehicles for daytime transport.

Traditional Fishing Village Cultural Tours

Coastal villages like Nouamghar remain active during June's heat as fishing happens during cool pre-dawn hours. Witness traditional Imraguen fishing techniques and visit fish-drying facilities. Village life adapts to heat with afternoon rest periods and evening community gatherings.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours cost 6,000-10,000 MRU through local cultural associations. Book through your accommodation or certified guides. Tours typically run 5-9am or 4-8pm to avoid midday heat. Includes traditional tea ceremony and local craft demonstrations.

Chinguetti Ancient Library Visits

June's dry conditions are ideal for viewing ancient manuscripts without humidity concerns. The historic city's traditional architecture provides natural cooling, and scholarly discussions with local historians happen during the cooler afternoon hours in shaded courtyards.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Nouakchott typically cost 18,000-28,000 MRU including transport and guide. Book 10-14 days ahead as access requires coordination with manuscript keepers. Early morning departures (5am) essential to reach Chinguetti before peak heat.

Banc d'Arguin Bird Sanctuary Tours

June marks the end of migratory season but resident species like flamingos and pelicans remain active during early morning feeding times. Boat tours operate in cooler dawn hours when birds are most active and temperatures are manageable.

Booking Tip: Reserve boat tours 7-10 days ahead through park-authorized operators. Half-day tours cost 12,000-18,000 MRU including park fees and guide. Tours depart 5:30am and return by 10am. Includes breakfast and bird identification materials.

Traditional Iron Ore Railway Experience

The world's longest train offers a unique way to cross the desert while avoiding daytime road travel heat. Night journeys from Nouadhibou to Zouerat provide dramatic desert landscapes and star-filled skies while keeping cool during the hottest part of the year.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost 2,500-4,500 MRU depending on class. Book 3-5 days ahead at Nouadhibou station. Bring sleeping bag and plenty of water. Journey takes 12-14 hours overnight, perfect for avoiding June's extreme daytime temperatures.

June Events & Festivals

Mid June

Nouakchott Cultural Festival

Annual celebration featuring traditional Hassaniya music, poetry competitions, and camel racing. Local artisans demonstrate traditional crafts including leather working and jewelry making. Evening concerts and cultural performances happen in air-conditioned venues or outdoor spaces after sunset.

Mid to Late June

Eid al-Adha Celebrations

Major Islamic holiday celebrated nationwide with family gatherings, traditional feasts, and community prayers. Visitors can observe traditional customs including ceremonial preparations and communal meals. Many businesses close for 2-3 days.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Ultra-lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants in light colors - essential protection from UV index 11 and blowing sand

High-SPF sunscreen (50+) and zinc oxide stick for nose and lips - June sun is relentless with minimal cloud cover

Insulated water bottles (2-3 liters capacity) - you'll drink 4-6 liters daily in 42°C (108°F) heat

Cooling towel and portable battery-powered fan - game changers during midday rest periods

Dust masks or bandanas - protect against sandstorms and fine Saharan dust that penetrates everything

Comfortable closed-toe shoes - sand reaches 60°C+ (140°F+) midday, making sandals painful

Electrolyte packets or tablets - essential to replace minerals lost through constant sweating

Lightweight sleeping bag rated to 20°C (68°F) - desert nights cool significantly and camping is popular

Portable shade structure or umbrella - creates crucial relief when caught in open areas during heat

Quick-dry microfiber towels - regular towels won't dry in high humidity and sand gets embedded

Insider Knowledge

Mauritanians follow 'qailula' (afternoon rest) from 1-4pm during June - shops close and streets empty, so plan accordingly and rest during peak heat

Fill water bottles with ice before departing accommodations - ice is precious and expensive in desert areas, but hotels usually provide it free

Traditional Mauritanian tea ceremonies happen during cooler evening hours in June - accepting invitations is culturally important and provides relief from heat

Local buses and shared taxis often break down in extreme heat - always carry extra water and inform someone of travel plans when using local transport

Avoid These Mistakes

Attempting desert excursions during midday hours (10am-5pm) - this is genuinely dangerous in June with temperatures exceeding 42°C (108°F)

Underestimating water needs - tourists often pack 1-2 liters but need 4-6 liters daily, and remote areas have no water sources

Wearing dark clothing or synthetic fabrics - these become unbearably hot and increase heat exhaustion risk significantly