Best things to do in Nouakchott
Find out more about those top places in Nouakchott
Nouakchott, Mauritania: Sahara's Surprisingly Sociable Hub (Where Camels Might Be Your Commute and Tea is a Sacred Ritual!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This West African Wonder!
Ahlan wa sahlan! (That's "welcome" in Arabic, and you'll be hearing it in this surprisingly welcoming Saharan city!) Get ready to venture into Nouakchott, the capital and largest city of Mauritania, a place that proudly wears its "one of the largest cities in the Sahara" badge. This isn't your typical bustling metropolis; think a city that bravely meets the desert, serving as the country's economic and administrative heartbeat.
Now, here's a fun fact: Nouakchott was just a sleepy little village until 1958! Can you imagine? Then, BAM! The Mauritanian government decided, "You, little village, you shall be our capital!" And they rebuilt it for the grand occasion. Talk about an extreme makeover! Today, with a population inching close to a million friendly faces, it's recognized as one of Africa's top developing cities – proof that even desert flowers can bloom!
But what about us, the intrepid travelers? Is Nouakchott just a place of sand and serious business? Absolutely not! This Saharan surprise isn't left out when it comes to tourism. With its incredibly hospitable citizens who will welcome you with open arms (and probably offer you some seriously sweet tea!), its lovely beaches where the desert sands meet the Atlantic waves, and its fascinating historical landmarks whispering tales of ancient trade routes and cultural heritage, Nouakchott is a truly great city to explore – if you're looking for something a little different (and a lot authentic!).
Forget the tourist hordes; Nouakchott offers a chance to experience a unique blend of Saharan culture and modern development. You might just find yourself sharing a cup of strong, sweet tea with a local nomad, haggling for vibrant textiles in a bustling market, or watching the sunset paint the desert sky in a thousand hues. It's an adventure for the soul!
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Saharan gem. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring historical mosques and bustling markets to relaxing on windswept beaches and experiencing the legendary hospitality of its people, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Nouakchott a truly special and hilariously surprising destination.
Top Attractions: Desertscapes, Culture, and Coastal Calm!
Nouakchott offers a unique blend of desert charm and coastal appeal:
Nouakchott National Museum: A Journey Through Mauritanian History
Delve into the rich history and culture of Mauritania at the Nouakchott National Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from prehistoric times to the present day. A key place to visit for cultural enrichment.
Nouakchott Central Market (Marché Capitale): A Bustling Hub
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Nouakchott Central Market, a bustling hub of commerce where you can find everything from traditional crafts to local produce and colorful textiles. A top thing to do for cultural immersion.
Chinguetti Mosque (Day Trip): Ancient Desert Heritage
While a bit of a journey from Nouakchott, a day trip to the ancient Chinguetti Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Mauritania's rich Islamic history and desert architecture. A significant place to visit for history buffs.
Nouakchott Beach: Where Desert Meets the Sea
Enjoy the windswept beauty of Nouakchott Beach, where the Sahara sands meet the Atlantic Ocean. A great place to visit for a unique coastal experience and sightseeing.
Saudi Mosque: Modern Islamic Architecture
Admire the modern Islamic architecture of the Saudi Mosque, a prominent landmark in Nouakchott. A noteworthy sightseeing point.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Saharan city!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Nouakchott vibe:
- Drink Traditional Mauritanian Tea: Participate in the elaborate three-glass tea ceremony, a symbol of hospitality.
- Visit a Local Artisan Workshop: Discover traditional crafts like leatherwork and weaving.
- Explore the Fishing Port: Witness the bustling activity of the local fishing industry.
- Take a Camel Ride (Nearby): Experience the iconic Saharan mode of transport just outside the city.
- Engage with the Hospitable Locals: Be open to conversations and learn about Mauritanian culture firsthand.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Africa that offer a unique blend of Saharan charm, welcoming culture, and a touch of coastal beauty, Nouakchott, Mauritania, is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with authentic sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared for strong tea, friendly faces, and maybe a camel ride selfie! Bisalama! (Goodbye!)
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Nouakchott Beach
The Mauritanian weather can be a tough one, with its constant sunshine all year long, a visit to one of the beaches is required for a bit of cooling off. Nouakchott Beach off the Atlantic coast is regarded as the best beach in the nation. With its sand dunes and lovely waves, it attracts lots of visitors weekly. Located 5 kilometers from the city center there are many activities to partake in such as sunbathing, beach sports and sailing. Like most beaches, it has several bars and restaurants around as well.
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Port de Peche
The Port de Peche is both exciting and intriguing. The port moves from a relatively quiet setting in the early hours of the day to a frantically paced late afternoon. Port de Peche is primary used for fishing activities and it is where the most of the capital’s seafood come from. Visitors can take a short trip round the port on one of the canoes and are advised not to go for a swim because the waves might be a little overwhelming even for an experienced swimmer.
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The Stade Olympique
Mauritania might not be part of the footballing powerhouse of Africa but are nevertheless a passionate footballing nation. The Stade Olympique opened on 14 July 1983 is the largest stadium in the country with a 20,000 capacity. It plays host to all the major football matches and sporting events in Mauritania. Previously known as the Stade de la Capitale, the stadium underwent some renovations in 2002, a visit to the Stadium during one of the matches is a must.
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Marché Capitale
Marché Capitale is the primary spot for buying and selling in Nouakchott. It is the biggest market in the capital and its packed with vendors selling different items. Tourists that want to get a sense of the local lifestyle can visit and hopefully pick up some fabrics, jewelry or electronics. You can also explore the Artisans Market and Zein Art gallery for some arts and crafts.
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Nouakchott Mosques
As expected of a Muslim city, there are quite many mosques around. The Saudi Mosque is located in the southwest of the prudential Palace, as the name suggests it was built by funds from Saudi Arabia, there is also Friday Mosque which is the most visited of all the city’s mosque located southeast of the Lebanese International University. Visitors are advised to dress in a way that follows Islamic rules, or they might not be given entrance into the mosque.
