Cheapest Flights to Nouakchott
* Ticket prices are subject to change.From the Most Popular Cities to Nouakchott
About Nouakchott
Nouakchott, the capital and largest city of Mauritania, is located on the Atlantic coast of West Africa. As of 2023, it has a population of approximately 1.2 million residents, reflecting its status as the country's economic and administrative center.
The city experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by minimal rainfall and significant temperature variations. Average high temperatures range from 28°C in January to 37°C in October. Rainfall is scarce, with September being the wettest month, averaging about 20 mm of precipitation. The most comfortable time to visit Nouakchott is between November and March, when temperatures are milder and humidity is lower.
Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport, situated approximately 25 kilometers north of the city center, serves as the main gateway for international travelers. While there are no direct flights from major UAE cities to Nouakchott, travelers can connect via regional hubs such as Casablanca with Royal Air Maroc or Istanbul with Turkish Airlines. Flight durations vary depending on layover times and chosen routes.
Mauritanian cuisine in Nouakchott offers a blend of Arab and West African flavors. Traditional dishes include thieboudienne (a seasoned fish and rice dish), mechoui (roast lamb), and maafe (a peanut-based stew). The city's markets and local eateries provide ample opportunities to experience these culinary delights.
Visitors to Nouakchott can explore several cultural and historical sites. The National Museum of Mauritania showcases artifacts that trace the nation's rich history. The bustling Port de Pêche offers insights into the local fishing industry and vibrant daily life. Additionally, the Nouakchott Silver Market is renowned for its traditional crafts and jewelry.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Banc d'Arguin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located north of Nouakchott, is a haven for birdwatching and offers pristine coastal landscapes. Within the city, the Nouakchott Camel Market provides a unique glimpse into traditional trading practices and the significance of camels in Mauritanian culture.
UAE nationals can obtain a visa on arrival in Mauritania, typically valid for 30 days. Travelers need a UAE passport with at least six months' validity, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds. Confirming entry requirements with the nearest Mauritanian embassy is best, as policies may change.
Transportation to Nouakchott City Center from Airport
Nouakchott Oumtounsy Intl. Airport
Nouakchott is the capital of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. City is located on the Atlantic Ocean coast of this northwest African country neighboring Senegal, Mali and Algeria. Pescheus Beach is not only the most beautiful beach of Nouakchott but also the country. Fishing, iron mining and date palm production are the most important commercial activities in the city.
Safari tourism is also common in the city and it is one of the greatest pleasures of the visitors. Asphalt roads are not common in Nouakchott, which is a desert town. There is also a train route which is used mainly for intercity and commercial transportation. Public transport is provided by small, crowded and old minibuses or by buses, but it is not highly recommended for the tourists because of security reasons.
You can find a taxi in the city center. There is no taximeter in the taxi, so you should agree on the place and the fare before starting your trip. You can bargain. You should ask for a taxi from your hotel or from someone you know, if possible, in order not to be misled about both your safety and the fare.
Car rental is the most preferred transportation method for tourists in Nouakchott. By renting a car you can both go to the city easily and do safari tour. Since most of the roads are not paved, even if you do not enter the desert, you have to pass through the dune roads. For this reason, 4x4 style vehicles are the most preferred. It is recommended that you choose an international car rental company instead of local companies. You may encounter stolen cars with European plates at local companies and you may have problems later. You should remember that if you rent a car you will often encounter police control and asked a lot of questions.
Speaking French would help you in the city. However, if you have an information form that you have prepared beforehand, you can get over these checks easier. This form, which you can find on the internet or you can prepare yourself, should include passport information, visa information and information about the car that you use. The car rental company can help you with this; preparing multiple forms in French or local language would facilitate the process.
Nouakchott International Airport is just 4 kilometers from the city center. There is no public transport service from the airport to the city center. However, you can reach the city center quickly and easily by taxi or renting a car.
Taxi
If you do not intend to rent a car and you do not have someone to pick you up from the airport, you can get to the city center by taxi. You should remember that there are no taximeters in the taxis and that you will have to negotiate the fare in advance. By taxi you can reach the city center from the airport in only 10 minutes.
Car Rental
Renting a car is very common in Nouakchott, because public transport is not a preferred means of transportation by tourists and there are no taximeters in taxis. You can rent a car at the airport. However, it is recommended that you do this on the internet with an international company before coming to town.
Approximately 3.5 kilometers after taking the N1 road at the airport exit, you will encounter a turn. Here you should take the N3 road at the west direction of the turn and follow the city center sign. After about 400 meters you can reach the city center. The journey takes about 10 minutes.
