Mauritania
Mauritania travel guide for Americans
Americans must obtain an e‑visa before arrival; if you have a valid visa, travel within 90 days. A visa‑on‑arrival is not offered since January 2025. Apply online 3‑5 business days before departure, pay the fee, and print the approval PDF to bring to the airport.
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GuideMauritania
Key facts
- Visa required
- e‑visa only, no visa on arrival since Jan 2025
- Maximum stay
- 90 days per visit
- Currencycheck
- MRU (≈ 38 MRU per US$)
- Plug types
- C, E – 220 V 50 Hz
- Emergency numbercheck
- 17 police, 18 fire
Visa and entry requirements
US citizens must apply for an electronic visa (e‑visa) through the Mauritanian e‑visa portal before departure. The process takes 3‑5 business days and costs about US$100 (check). No visa on arrival is offered since January 2025.
A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and have at least one blank page.
- Apply online at the official e‑visa site.
- Print the approval PDF and bring it to the airport.
- Pay the fee by credit card or bank transfer.
US embassy and consular services
Mauritania does not host a US embassy. The nearest US diplomatic mission is the Embassy in Rabat, Morocco. Contact details are available on the US Department of State website.
- Embassy of the United States, Rabat – 212 537 722 200 (check).
- Email: [email protected] (check).
Travel costs in USD
A moderate budget of US$70‑90 per day covers mid‑range accommodation, meals, local transport and guide fees in the main tourist circuit (Nouakchott, Atar, Chinguetti). Higher‑end tours can reach US$150 per day.
| Item | Daily cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Budget hotel/guesthouse | 30‑45 |
| Mid‑range hotel | 60‑90 |
| Meals (local) | 15‑25 |
| Guide & driver | 30‑45 |
| Transport (bus/4×4) | 10‑20 |
Flights, time zone and plugs
Typical flights from major US hubs (e.g., New York, Washington) connect via Casablanca or Paris, with total travel time 12‑16 hours including layover.
Mauritania uses UTC+0 year‑round, so adjust accordingly from your home time zone.
Electrical plugs are Type C and E, 220 V 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter.
Tipping and emergency numbers
Tipping is customary for drivers and guides (US$5‑10 per day). Small tips in restaurants are appreciated but not mandatory.
For emergencies dial 17 for police or 18 for fire services. The US embassy in Rabat can assist US citizens in distress.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Mauritania?
Yes. Apply for an e‑visa before you travel; there is no visa on arrival for US citizens.
How much does a trip to Mauritania cost in USD?
Budget travelers spend about US$70‑90 per day; mid‑range trips cost US$120‑150 per day, covering accommodation, meals, transport and guide fees.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Mauritania?
Mauritania has no US embassy; the closest is in Rabat, Morocco. Contact the embassy for consular assistance.
What is the best time to visit Mauritania?
The cool season, November to February, offers milder temperatures and is ideal for desert itineraries.
Is Mauritania safe to visit?
Travel is generally safe in tourist zones with a guide, but stay updated on local security advice and avoid remote border areas.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
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