Cheapest Flights to Nouakchott
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About Nouakchott
Nouakchott, the capital and largest city of Mauritania, is home to approximately 1.2 million residents as of 2023. Situated on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, it serves as the country's administrative and economic hub, renowned for its coastal landscapes and vibrant markets.
The city experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by minimal rainfall and high temperatures throughout the year. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C, with the hottest period occurring between May and September. The cooler months, from November to February, offer more moderate temperatures, making this period the most comfortable time to visit.
Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers north of the city center, serves as the primary gateway to the city. While there are no direct flights from major Saudi Arabian cities to Nouakchott, travelers can reach the city via connecting flights through regional hubs such as Casablanca with Royal Air Maroc, Istanbul with Turkish Airlines, or Doha with Qatar Airways.
Nouakchott's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences, featuring traditional Mauritanian dishes like thieboudienne (a flavorful fish and rice dish), mechoui (roasted lamb), and various couscous preparations. The city's markets and eateries also offer a range of North African and West African cuisines. Mint tea, known locally as "atai," is a ubiquitous beverage, often enjoyed in three successive servings, each varying in sweetness.
Visitors to Nouakchott can explore several attractions that showcase the city's cultural and natural heritage. The National Museum of Mauritania offers insights into the country's history and traditions, while the bustling Nouakchott Silver Market provides a glimpse into local craftsmanship. The city's beaches, such as Plage de Nouakchott, are popular spots for relaxation and observing traditional fishing practices.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Banc d'Arguin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers opportunities for bird watching and experiencing unique coastal ecosystems. The city's fish market, Port de Pêche, is another notable site where visitors can witness the vibrant fishing culture and purchase fresh seafood.
Saudi Arabian citizens are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival when traveling to Mauritania. This visa is typically issued at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport and allows for a short-term stay, usually up to 30 days. Travelers should ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay and may be required to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.
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.
