Group trips to Mauritania

Mauritania is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone, and it does not observe daylight saving time. If it is 12pm in the UK, it will also be 12pm in Mauritania. However, if it is 12pm on the East Coast of the USA, it will be 4pm in Mauritania. So keep this in mind when planning your activities or contacting people back home.

Mauritania uses the Mauritanian Ouguiya as its currency. As of the latest rates:

• 1 British Pound is approximately 49 Mauritanian Ouguiya
• 1 US Dollar is around 38 Mauritanian Ouguiya
• 1 Euro is roughly 41 Mauritanian Ouguiya

You can exchange currency at banks, major hotels, or currency exchange offices in larger cities. It's always a good idea to check the current rates before you travel.

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Mauritania, so we recommend you carry cash for most transactions. ATMs can be found in major cities and usually accept international cards for cash withdrawals. It's a good idea to have some local currency, the Mauritanian ouguiya, on hand for smaller purchases. Keep in mind that in rural areas, you might find it challenging to use cards, so having cash is essential.

In Mauritania, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or from a tour guide, you might want to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation. A few extra coins or rounding up the bill is usually sufficient. In hotels, porters and housekeeping staff may appreciate a small tip for their services. Remember, tipping is entirely optional and at your discretion.

In Mauritania, internet access can be a bit challenging. Wi-Fi is available mainly in hotels, cafes, and some public places, but it might not always be reliable. We suggest you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan for more consistent connectivity during your travels. Some popular providers in Mauritania include:

• Mauritel
• Mattel
• Chinguitel

Local SIM cards are generally affordable and can be purchased at the airport or in local shops. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a local SIM to avoid any issues.

In Mauritania, the official language is Arabic, particularly Hassaniya Arabic, which is widely spoken. French is also commonly used due to historical ties. Here are some useful expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Salam
• Thank you: Shukran
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La
• Please: Min fadlak

These expressions can help you communicate more easily during your trip.

In Mauritania, the plugs and sockets used are types C, E, and F. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. Since these plugs are common in Europe, if you're coming from the UK or the USA, you'll need a universal adapter to fit your devices. It's a good idea to check your devices' voltage compatibility to ensure they can handle 220 V.

The main religion in Mauritania is Islam, and nearly the entire population practices it. Being a predominantly Muslim country, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. If you're visiting, women should consider wearing modest clothing, including long skirts or pants and covering their shoulders. Men should avoid wearing shorts in public places. Key religious holidays include:

• Ramadan, a month of fasting
• Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan

Fridays are also significant as they are the main day for communal prayers.

When heading to Mauritania, it's important to pack smartly considering the climate and cultural norms. Here's a handy list to help you prepare your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection
  • Loose-fitting and modest clothing in respect of local customs
  • A light jacket for cooler evenings
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for casual outings
  • Flip-flops for the beach or hotel
• Accessories and Technology:
  • A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
  • Travel adapter for type C plugs
  • Portable charger
  • Camera or smartphone for photographs
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers and anti-diarrheal tablets

Mauritania has a desert climate, so it’s mostly hot and dry throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown by region:

• Coastal areas: Moderately cooler with some humidity, especially in Nouakchott.
• Inland and desert regions: Extremely hot with temperatures soaring during the day, especially in cities like Atar.
• Best time to visit: November to February when temperatures are more bearable.

It's a good idea to pack light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated.