Mauritania is not the first country that comes to mind when thinking of travel, but that’s exactly what makes it such an amazing destination. It’s remote, less touristy, and super affordable if you plan correctly. You won’t find luxury, but you can have a meaningful adventure on a tight budget.
Accommodation: How to Save Money
Your biggest expense will be accommodation. There aren’t many hostels, but you can still find affordable options if you know where to look.
Stay in Auberges
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Auberges are budget-friendly, family-run guesthouses. They are common in larger cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. You can get a basic room for around 3,000-5,000 MRO (8-14 USD). Some even include a simple breakfast. These are often your best bets for affordable stays in Mauritania.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing doesn’t have a large community in Mauritania, but it does exist. If you are open to meeting people and staying with locals for free, this is an option. Be sure to message hosts early as not everyone checks their accounts regularly.
Camping
If you feel adventurous, camping is another great way to save money. Many areas in the desert allow for wild camping. Just make sure you’re well-prepared with proper gear and plenty of water, especially since the temperatures drop at night in the desert.
Food: Eating Cheap
Food in Mauritania is simple but delicious, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how you can eat cheaply while traveling around the country.
Eat at Local Restaurants
Small, local restaurants are the best places to eat cheap meals like couscous, rice, and stews. You can easily find meals for as low as 500-1,200 MRO (1.50-4 USD). There are often no menus, so just ask what’s available that day.
Street Food
Street food is also an affordable and tasty option. You can grab things like grilled meat skewers, flatbread, and fried dough snacks for a few MROs. Not only is it cheap, but it is also an excellent way to experience local flavors.
Shop at Markets
Buying food from the local markets can save you a lot of money. Fresh fruits, veggies, bread, and pastries can be purchased for far less than you’d pay at a restaurant. Stock up on cheap snacks and water to avoid paying higher prices at tourist spots.
Transportation: Getting Around on a Budget
Mauritania is massive, and getting around takes time, but you can still do it cheaply. Here are a few tips to keep travel costs low while exploring the country.
Shared Taxis or Bush Taxis
Shared taxis, also known as bush taxis, are the main way locals get around for long distances. They are much cheaper than hiring a private taxi. You’ll share the car with other passengers and might have to wait a bit for it to fill up. Prices vary depending on the route, but they are generally affordable.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is common in Mauritania, especially in more remote areas. People are friendly and often willing to give you a lift for free or for a few MROs. Just make sure you feel safe and only hitchhike during the day.
Travel by Train
Taking a ride on the Iron Ore Train is an unforgettable experience, and it’s also cheap! The train runs from Nouadhibou to Choum and Zouérat. Passengers can ride for free in the open carts containing iron ore, or pay around 3,000 MRO (8-10 USD) for a spot in the passenger car. It’s a rugged but truly unique way to see the desert.
Buses
Buses are another option for traveling between cities. They are more comfortable than bush taxis, but less frequent. Ticket prices range from 3,000-6,000 MRO (8-16 USD) depending on distance.
Attractions: What to See and Do for Free or Cheap
While Mauritania doesn’t have iconic tourist attractions, there are still plenty of things to see and do on a budget. Many of the best experiences are free or very affordable.
Explore Nouakchott
The capital city is a great place to start your trip. You can wander around the bustling markets, visit the Grand Mosque, or relax by the beach—all for free. The Port de Pêche (fishing port) is an amazing place to see the traditional fishing boats coming in with their daily catch. There’s no cost to check it out, and it offers a glimpse into local life.
Visit Banc d’Arguin National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Banc d’Arguin is known for its biodiversity, especially its birdlife. The park has one of the largest concentrations of migrating birds in the world. You can visit the park for a low entrance fee and even camp overnight if you bring your gear. Entry costs around 2,000-3,000 MRO (5-8 USD).
Discover the Ancient City of Chinguetti
Chinguetti is a centuries-old city that was once a key stop on trans-Saharan trade routes. Today, it’s known for its beautiful stone houses and historic libraries. Walking around the old town is free, and you can visit some libraries for a small fee (around 500 MRO, which is about 1.50 USD).
Trek Through the Adrar Region
The Adrar Region is home to rugged cliffs, hidden oases, and ancient cities like Ouadane and Terjit. You can take multiday treks here, enjoying the desert landscapes for little to no cost aside from transportation and any guides you might want to hire. Terjit Oasis offers natural springs where you can swim for free.
Travel Tips for Staying on Budget
Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind that will help you save even more money while you’re in Mauritania.
Travel During the Off-Season
The weather can get scorching hot, but if you’re willing to handle the heat, travel during the summer months (June-August) to snag lower prices on accommodation and transportation.
Bargain for Everything
Haggling is part of the culture in Mauritania. Whether you’re buying a souvenir, booking accommodation, or taking a taxi, you should always negotiate the price. It’s expected, and you’ll often end up paying quite a bit less than the originally quoted price.
Bring Cash
Mauritania is primarily a cash society. ATMs can be hard to find, especially in rural areas, and credit or debit cards are rarely accepted. Make sure you have plenty of MRO on hand to avoid expensive currency exchanges or ATM withdrawal fees.
Travel Light
With limited public transport and long distances between major cities, you’ll want to pack as light as possible. This will allow you to take cheaper, local transport options like bush taxis or shared rides without having to worry about excess baggage fees.
Conclusion
Traveling to Mauritania on a budget isn’t just possible—it’s incredibly rewarding. By staying in affordable auberges or camping, eating at local restaurants, using shared taxis, and exploring free and cheap attractions, you can enjoy everything this unique country has to offer without blowing through your budget. It’s all about planning and being open to the slower, more adventurous style of travel Mauritania demands.
Mauritania is a destination for those who are curious, patient, and ready to explore the untouched corners of the world. So pack your bags, get ready for some haggling, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!
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