Where to Stay in Mauritania
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Mauritania
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The capital concentrates approximately 70% of Mauritania's formal accommodation infrastructure, from backpacker guesthouses to international business hotels. This is the only area with reliable Western-standard amenities including consistent electricity, hot water, and WiFi. The city serves as the essential base for arranging permits, tours, and onward travel.
Mauritania's economic hub outside the capital, dominated by the fishing industry and mining sector. Accommodation primarily serves business travelers with functional mid-range hotels, though the nearby Banc d'Arguin National Park attracts birdwatchers to a handful of specialized lodges. Options are limited but generally more reliable than interior destinations.
The heart of Mauritania's desert tourism, featuring ancient ksour (fortified villages) and dramatic Saharan landscapes. Accommodation consists mainly of family-run auberges in traditional buildings and simple hotels catering to desert expeditions. This region offers the most culturally authentic lodging experiences, though comfort levels are basic and infrastructure unreliable.
The vast empty quarter between coastal areas and the Adrar, primarily traversed by overland expeditions. Accommodation is extremely limited, consisting mainly of basic roadside stops and mobile camping. Travelers typically arrange full-service expeditions that include camping equipment and supplies.
A remote region featuring dramatic escarpments and historic towns with minimal tourist infrastructure. The few accommodation options are extremely basic, typically family-run guesthouses with limited facilities. This area requires self-sufficiency and flexibility, appealing to hardy travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
A transitional zone between desert and Sahel, featuring agricultural communities and limited tourism infrastructure. Accommodation is sparse and basic, primarily serving regional commerce rather than tourism. The area sees few international visitors outside researchers and NGO workers.
Mauritania's greenest region, featuring the Senegal River and Diawling National Park. Accommodation includes basic hotels in regional centers and occasional eco-lodges near wildlife areas. Infrastructure is generally poor but the region offers a dramatic contrast to desert zones and attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Remote southeastern regions bordering Mali, featuring ancient trading towns and archaeological sites. Accommodation is extremely limited and basic, with simple guesthouses in larger towns serving mainly regional traders. Security concerns have historically limited tourism development in these areas.
The remote iron ore mining area in northern Mauritania, accessible via the famous iron ore train from Nouadhibou. Accommodation primarily serves mining workers with company facilities and basic hotels. Tourism is limited but the region attracts adventurous travelers riding the iron ore train.
Home to the spectacular Ben Amira monolith and dramatic desert landscapes between Nouadhibou and Atar. Accommodation consists entirely of mobile desert camps operated by tour companies. This is pure wilderness camping territory requiring organized expedition support.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Mauritania
International hotel chains have minimal presence in Mauritania, limited to one or two properties in Nouakchott such as Mercure and a few regional brands. The market is dominated by independent local hotels and guesthouses. Most chain-affiliated properties serve business travelers in the capital, offering reliable standards but limited character.
The vast majority of accommodation consists of locally-owned establishments ranging from family-run auberges in desert towns to modest city hotels. These properties vary enormously in quality and reliability, but often provide authentic cultural experiences and personal service that compensates for infrastructure limitations. Many are run by families with deep local knowledge who can arrange guides, transportation, and desert expeditions. In smaller towns, accommodation may simply be rooms in private homes, arranged informally through local contacts.
Mauritania's most distinctive accommodation experiences are the traditional auberges in ancient ksour towns like Chinguetti and Ouadane, where travelers sleep in historic stone buildings that have hosted caravans for centuries. Desert bivouacs (mobile camps) represent another uniquely Mauritanian experience, ranging from basic camping under the stars to luxury mobile camps with proper beds, dining tents, and surprisingly sophisticated amenities. Some operators offer stays in traditional nomadic tents (khaimas) that provide cultural immersion while exploring remote areas. The legendary iron ore train also offers an extreme accommodation experience, with hardy travelers camping on open ore wagons during the 12-hour journey across the Sahara.
Booking Tips for Mauritania
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Outside Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, most quality accommodation is best accessed through tour operators who maintain relationships with reliable auberges and can arrange desert camps. Direct online booking is rarely possible for smaller properties, and many excellent guesthouses have no web presence. Working with a reputable Mauritanian tour company ensures accommodation meets minimum standards and handles the complex logistics of desert travel.
Communication infrastructure is unreliable throughout Mauritania, and booking confirmations may not reach properties or may be lost. Always reconfirm reservations 48-72 hours before arrival, ideally through multiple channels (phone, WhatsApp, email). Have backup contact information for property owners, and consider having a local contact verify your reservation, especially during peak season when overbooking can occur.
Even confirmed amenities like air conditioning, hot water, or WiFi may be unavailable due to power cuts or water shortages. Bring a headlamp, backup battery packs, and consider carrying a portable water filter. In desert areas, expect basic facilities regardless of price paid—you're paying for location and cultural access rather than modern comforts. Setting realistic expectations prevents disappointment and allows appreciation of Mauritania's unique hospitality.
Credit cards are rarely accepted outside top-tier hotels in Nouakchott, and even there, payment systems can be unreliable. Carry sufficient cash (Mauritanian ouguiya) for all accommodation payments, as ATMs are scarce outside major cities and often non-functional. Some properties may accept euros or dollars but at unfavorable rates. Budget for full cash payment of all accommodation throughout your journey.
For Adrar region and desert exploration, all-inclusive packages through established operators often provide better value and reliability than piecing together independent accommodation. These packages include transportation, camping equipment, food, and experienced guides along with accommodation, eliminating the significant logistical challenges of independent travel in remote areas where support infrastructure is minimal or nonexistent.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Mauritania
Book 2-3 months in advance for November through February travel, especially for limited quality accommodation in Atar, Chinguetti, and boutique properties in Nouakchott. Desert expedition camps book out early as tour groups reserve capacity. The few properties with reliable standards fill quickly, and last-minute arrivals may face only very basic options or need to travel further to find available rooms.
October and March offer more flexibility, with 3-4 weeks advance booking generally sufficient for most destinations. Prices remain relatively stable as the limited accommodation market doesn't fluctuate dramatically. Some desert camps may still be setting up or winding down operations in shoulder months, so confirm operational status when booking.
April through September sees minimal tourism due to extreme heat, and many desert-area properties close entirely. Those remaining open may accept walk-in guests, though it's still wise to call ahead as reduced staff may not be present. Business hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou maintain year-round operations. Prices rarely drop significantly as the market is small and not price-sensitive.
Given Mauritania's limited quality accommodation and communication challenges, booking as far in advance as practical is advisable regardless of season. For major cities, 2-4 weeks is usually sufficient, but for desert regions and during peak season, 2-3 months ahead is recommended. Always reconfirm closer to arrival dates, as the concept of guaranteed reservations differs from Western norms.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Mauritania