Things to Do in Mauritania in March

March Weather in Mauritania

35°C (95°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

2mm (0.08 inches) Rainfall

25% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperatures for desert exploration - days are hot but not unbearable at 35°C (95°F), nights cool to comfortable 18°C (64°F)
Zero rainfall and clear skies make this ideal for camping in the Sahara and visiting remote archaeological sites
Harmattan winds from the northeast bring excellent visibility for photography and stargazing
Traditional date harvest season - local markets overflow with fresh Medjool dates and date-based specialties like thiakry

Considerations

Harmattan winds can create sandstorms lasting 2-3 days, potentially disrupting desert tours and flights
Extreme temperature swings of 17°C (31°F) between day and night require careful packing
UV index of 9 creates serious sunburn risk within 15 minutes - essential to plan activities for early morning and late afternoon

Best Activities in March

Sahara Desert Camping Expeditions

March offers perfect conditions for multi-day desert camping with comfortable sleeping temperatures and clear skies for stargazing. The harmattan winds create dramatic sand formations and exceptional visibility. Camel trekking is comfortable in the moderate heat, and you'll witness the spectacular temperature drop at sunset.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead through licensed desert guides. Expeditions typically cost $80-150 per person per day including meals and equipment. Look for guides certified by the Ministry of Tourism and ensure camps provide quality sleeping bags rated for temperature swings. See current desert tour options in the booking section below.

Archaeological Site Exploration

March's dry conditions and excellent visibility make this the best month to explore ancient cities like Ouadane and Tichitt. The comfortable morning temperatures allow for extensive walking, while the clear harmattan air provides perfect photography conditions for the medieval architecture and ancient manuscripts.

Booking Tip: Sites are accessible year-round but March offers optimal conditions. Guided tours typically range $40-80 per day. Book through certified cultural guides who understand the historical significance. Best visited in morning hours when temperatures are 22-28°C (72-82°F).

Traditional Fishing Village Tours

March coincides with prime fishing season along the Atlantic coast. Ocean temperatures are comfortable at 20°C (68°F), and the clear weather allows traditional fishermen to venture further offshore. You'll witness the daily fish markets and traditional imraguen fishing techniques unique to Mauritania.

Booking Tip: Coastal tours run $30-60 per day including transportation from Nouakchott. Book with operators who work directly with fishing communities. Early morning departures at 5am offer the best experience as boats return with the catch.

Nouakchott Cultural Immersion

March's moderate temperatures make walking tours of the capital comfortable, especially during the date harvest celebrations. The Grand Mosque is less crowded, traditional craft markets are fully stocked, and the pleasant evening temperatures create vibrant street life along Avenue Kennedy.

Booking Tip: City tours typically cost $25-45 per day. Best experienced through local cultural centers rather than international operators. Evening tours from 4-8pm avoid the midday heat and showcase the city's social atmosphere.

Adrar Plateau Trekking

The dramatic rock formations and ancient caravan routes of the Adrar region are perfectly accessible in March. Cool morning temperatures of 20°C (68°F) allow for comfortable hiking, while the dry conditions ensure safe passage through wadis and rocky terrain.

Booking Tip: Multi-day treks range $60-120 per person daily including guide and basic camping equipment. Book through Atar-based operators familiar with seasonal water sources. Treks require moderate fitness for 4-6 hours daily hiking.

Traditional Music and Poetry Gatherings

March marks the height of traditional cultural season when cooler evenings encourage outdoor performances. Griots perform traditional Hassaniya poetry, and you can attend authentic musical gatherings in desert camps and town squares without the extreme heat of later months.

Booking Tip: Cultural evenings cost $15-30 per person and are best arranged through local cultural associations. Authentic performances happen spontaneously - stay flexible and ask your accommodation about weekly gatherings. Most active Friday and Saturday evenings.

March Events & Festivals

Throughout March

Traditional Date Harvest Celebrations

Local communities celebrate the Medjool date harvest with traditional music, dancing, and communal meals. Markets overflow with fresh dates, date wine, and traditional sweets. This is the best time to experience authentic Mauritanian hospitality.

Mid to Late March

Camel Racing Season

Traditional camel races occur in desert communities, featuring locally-bred racing camels and traditional betting. These authentic cultural events offer insight into nomadic traditions and community gathering practices.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - lightweight cotton for 35°C (95°F) days, warm fleece for 18°C (64°F) nights

SPF 50+ sunscreen and zinc stick - UV index 9 causes burns in 12-15 minutes

Quality sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat for harmattan wind protection

Lightweight scarf or shemagh for sudden sandstorms lasting 2-3 days

Insulated water bottle - you need 4-5 liters (1.1-1.3 gallons) daily in desert conditions

Closed-toe shoes with good grip for rocky terrain and sand dune climbing

Battery pack and protective case for electronics during sandstorms

Basic first aid kit including electrolyte tablets for dehydration prevention

Cash in small denominations - credit cards rarely accepted outside Nouakchott

Headlamp with red filter for desert camping without disturbing others

Insider Knowledge

Harmattan winds typically blow strongest between 10am-4pm - schedule indoor activities and rest during this window to avoid sand and glare

Fresh dates are cheapest and best quality in March - buy directly from palm grove owners for 200-300 MRU per kg versus 500+ in markets

Desert camping groups should carry extra water containers - daily temperature swings cause increased dehydration even when you don't feel thirsty

Friday afternoons see reduced activity due to prayers - plan administrative tasks and travel for Saturday through Thursday

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating nighttime cold - tourists regularly pack only summer clothes and shiver through 18°C (64°F) desert nights

Planning outdoor activities during midday harmattan winds - visibility drops to 100m (330ft) and sand makes photography impossible

Assuming all accommodations have reliable electricity - bring battery packs and inform contacts about potential communication gaps