Mauritania Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Mauritania.
Healthcare System
Mauritania's healthcare system is basic, with limited facilities outside major cities. Public hospitals are often understaffed and under-equipped.
Hospitals
Recommended hospitals for tourists include Clinique Internationale de Mauritanie and Polyclinique les Roses in Nouakchott. These facilities have English-speaking staff and accept international insurance.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are available in cities but may lack specialized medications. Bring sufficient prescription medications and a doctor's note. Common over-the-counter medications are usually available.
Insurance
Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended and often essential for serious medical issues.
Healthcare Tips
- Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses
- Pack a complete first aid kit with basic medications
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag-snatching in crowded markets and tourist areas
Extreme desert temperatures, April-October
Poor road conditions, reckless driving, and lack of vehicle maintenance
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals claiming to be official guides offer expensive tours to Chinguetti or Terjit, then disappear with payment
Street money changers use sleight of hand or give counterfeit bills when exchanging currency
Some Mauritania restaurants, in Nouakchott nightlife areas, don't display prices and charge tourists excessive amounts
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Desert Travel
- Always travel with a guide when visiting areas like Chinguetti or the Adrar region
- Inform your hotel of your travel plans and expected return time
- Carry GPS, satellite phone, and extra fuel when driving in remote areas
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly, when visiting religious sites or traditional areas
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Learn basic Arabic or French greetings to show respect
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks rather than standalone machines
- Keep copies of important documents in separate locations
- Consider using a money belt for large amounts of cash
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women can travel safely in Mauritania with appropriate cultural awareness and modest dress. Harassment is generally minimal compared to regional standards.
- Wear loose-fitting, ankle-length clothing and long sleeves
- Consider wearing a headscarf when visiting religious sites
- Travel with companions when possible, in Nouakchott nightlife areas
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex relations are illegal in Mauritania with potential for severe punishment under Islamic law, though this is rarely enforced against foreigners.
- Maintain complete discretion about your sexual orientation
- Book twin beds rather than double beds in Mauritania hotels
- Avoid LGBTQ+ dating apps which may be monitored
Travel Insurance
Essential due to limited medical facilities and potential need for medical evacuation to Europe or Morocco for serious conditions.
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