Mauritania
Money in Mauritania: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU) for most purchases; bring euros in cash to exchange, as ATMs are scarce and cards work only in a few Nouakchott hotels. Tip around 5‑10% where service is provided.
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GuideMauritania
Key facts
- Currency
- Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU)
- ATMs
- Few; often reject foreign cards
- Card acceptance
- Limited to some Nouakchott hotels
- Typical tipcheck
- 5‑10% of bill
Currency and payment methods
Mauritania uses the ouguiya (MRU), redenominated in 2018 (1 new ouguiya = 10 old). Prices may still be quoted in the old unit, so check conversion before buying.
ATMs exist mainly in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou and frequently decline foreign cards. Exchange euros or US dollars at banks or licensed bureaux de change in these cities before traveling inland.
Credit and debit cards are accepted only in a handful of upscale hotels and some larger restaurants in Nouakchott. For most shops, markets and transport, cash is required.
- Bring €50–€100 in cash for initial exchange.
- Carry small MRU notes for taxis and small purchases.
- Consider a prepaid travel card that can be loaded with euros and withdrawn in MRU where possible.
Tipping in Mauritania
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, especially in hotels, restaurants and for guides. A tip of about 5 % of the bill is common in restaurants; round up taxi fares or give 2–5 MRU for porters.
Guides and drivers often rely on tips as part of their income; 10 % of the tour cost or a few euros per day is a good guideline.
- Restaurants: 5‑10 % of the total.
- Taxis: round up to the nearest 5 MRU.
- Guides/drivers: €2‑5 per day or 10 % of the tour fee.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Mauritania?
The official currency is the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU). Prices may still be shown in the old ouguiya, so verify the conversion rate.
Should I use cash or a card in Mauritania?
Cash is essential outside a few Nouakchott hotels. Bring euros to exchange, as ATMs are limited and many foreign cards are declined.
How much should I tip in Mauritania?
Tip roughly 5‑10 % in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and give guides/drivers €2‑5 per day or about 10 % of the tour price.
Where can I exchange money in Mauritania?
Exchange euros or US dollars at banks or licensed bureaux de change in Nouakchott or Nouadhibou. Do not rely on ATMs inland.
Are mobile wallets like Bankily useful for travellers?
Mobile wallets (Bankily, Masrvi, Sedad) require a local bank account, so they are not practical for short-term visitors. Stick to cash.
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Mauritania guide
Ask about Mauritania
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