The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is located in the North African continent. It is the eleventh largest country in North Africa. The countries bordering it are Morocco, Algeria, Mali, and Senegal.
The capital of the country is Nouakchott. The official language of the country is Arabic. Other recognized national languages are also Pulaar, Soninke, Wolof, French, and Zenaga Berber.
The people of the country are the Mauritanian. The total area of the country is 1 million square km. It also has a population of 4 million people. 90% of the area of the country is the desert. The land is flat, with vast and arid planes. However, various isolated peaks are rich in many minerals. The culture of the country is mainly influenced by Islam. The language, literature, and cuisines, everything, has an Arabic touch to it.
Tourism in Mauritania is not a very developed industry, due to frequent terrorist attacks. However, the country has cultural and natural resources, which can attract tourists in the nearest future. The ancient cities of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Oualata, Tichitt and Koumbi Saleh are vestiges of the country’s rich past. The Trans-Saharan trade made these cities part of the city relays between North Africa and the Black Africa through the Sahara. These cities also had a profound and cultural influence on the country.
The currency of the country is Mauritanian Ouguiya. The exchange rate is approximately 357 MRO for 1 US dollar. You can exchange money at the airport or the main banks in Nouakchott. Exchanging money on the black market is illegal here. Also, you can only use credit cards in big hotels. There are only a few ATMs, so it is better to have cash on you.
Taxis are plentiful in towns, but rather expensive. Fares are set and a small tip is expected. Car hire is available in Nouakchott, Nouâdhibou and Atâr. Renting a car with a driver is advisable, although expensive. Cars drive on the right side of the road here. However, travelers should never attempt any desert journey without a full set of spare parts and essential safety equipment.
Mauritania is considered to be a dangerous country for travel. For example, the US Department of State even issued a warning on February 23, 2016, about traveling to Mauritania, regarding the recent terrorist attacks.
July 31, 2016 12:00 am 1 Comment
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