How to get to Nouadhibou

If you have decided to visit Nouadhibou, you are about to discover Mauritania's second most important city, located on a picturesque peninsula off the Atlantic coast. It is a vital economic hub and a major port where the desert landscapes of the Sahara meet the power of the sea.

There are plenty of ways to get here: travelers can use air transport, or arrive by car or bus. Furthermore, the city is famous as the terminus of the legendary railway line, where the longest trains in the world operate, transporting iron ore across the desert.

The primary way to reach Nouadhibou by air is to take a flight to the local international airport (NDB). This air gateway is a key transport hub in northern Mauritania and handles both domestic and select international flights. The terminal is compact and convenient, providing travelers with quick access to the city immediately after landing.

Since direct flights from distant countries are rare, the optimal route is often planned with a connection in the capital, Nouakchott, from where the flight takes about one hour. For those planning a grand tour of West Africa, alternative entry points could be major airports in neighboring countries, such as Senegal or Morocco; however, a direct flight or a convenient connection to Nouadhibou will save you considerable time and energy.

Traveling by train to Nouadhibou is not merely a transfer, but a legendary adventure for which many travelers specifically visit this region. The city serves as the final station of the country's only railway line, connecting the Atlantic coast with the mining center of Zouérat deep in the Sahara.

The famous "Desert Train" operates on this route and is considered one of the longest trains in the world (its length often exceeds 2.5 kilometers). The railway's main purpose is transporting ore, but a passenger wagon is usually attached to the train. The most adventurous tourists choose the extreme option of riding directly in the open cargo wagons on top of the ore to enjoy views of the endless dunes and starry skies, although this requires serious preparation and protection against dust.

The journey takes on average from 14 to 20 hours. The railway station is located on the outskirts of the city, in the Cansado district. Upon arrival, you can reach the center or hotels by taxi, which usually meet the train. Please note that there is no strict schedule, and departure times may change, so plan your trip with ample spare time.

Bus services connect Nouadhibou with key points in the region, and the most popular route departs from the capital, Nouakchott. Comfortable coaches cover the distance of 470 kilometers in approximately 6 hours along an excellent highway running parallel to the coast. This is one of the most convenient ways to reach the city by land.

Also popular is the route from the north, from the city of Dakhla: the road, stretching about 450 kilometers, takes from 7 to 10 hours. A significant portion of this time may be spent clearing border formalities. This path is often chosen by those undertaking a grand journey along the Atlantic coast.

Travelers starting their journey in Senegal should be prepared for a long transfer from Dakar. This route, about 1000 kilometers long, usually requires a transfer in the Mauritanian capital and takes about a day, allowing you to see an impressive shift in landscapes from savannah to true desert. It is strongly recommended to choose reputable transport companies offering buses with air conditioning, as daytime temperatures on the road can be high.

Traveling by car to Nouadhibou is a true expedition through atmospheric desert landscapes. The most comfortable route leads from the capital, Nouakchott: an excellent paved highway stretching about 480 kilometers allows you to cover this distance in 6–7 hours. Many road trippers also arrive from the north, from the direction of Dakhla; this section, about 430 kilometers long, takes approximately 5 hours of driving time but requires patience and extra time for border control.

Tourists starting their journey in West Africa, for example from Dakar, face a long drive of over 1000 kilometers, which usually takes about 15 hours and passes in transit through the capital. For movement between cities, it is convenient to use local shared taxis, the prices of which are quite affordable, whereas the cost of a private transfer will be significantly higher and always requires prior negotiation.

Roads on the main directions are in good condition, but it is important to monitor your fuel supply and drinking water, as gas stations and settlements are infrequent in the desert. Additionally, one should be attentive on the highway: camels wandering onto the road are not uncommon in these parts.

A trip to Nouadhibou will give you a unique experience of life where the ocean meets the desert. To ensure your visit to Mauritania is comfortable and safe, we have prepared a list of important recommendations based on the specifics of this region.

1. Clothing and Appearance: Given the conservative traditions of the country, choose modest clothing made from natural fabrics that covers shoulders and knees. Despite the hot days, the proximity of the Atlantic brings cool winds, so a light windbreaker or fleece jacket will definitely come in handy for evening walks along the coast.
2. Transport Nuances: The most common way to get around the city is by taxi. Most cars lack meters, so the fare must be agreed upon with the driver in advance, before getting into the vehicle. Bargaining is appropriate and expected here.
3. Financial Matters: The national currency is the Mauritanian Ouguiya. Bank cards are accepted extremely rarely, mostly only in a few high-class hotels, so always carry a sufficient supply of cash. It is best to exchange currency (Euros or Dollars) at official banks or licensed bureaus.
4. Health and Hygiene: It is strongly recommended to drink only bottled water and use it even for brushing your teeth. The sun here is very intense, so sunscreen and a head covering are mandatory, and it is better to assemble a personal first aid kit at home, including digestion aids and antiseptics.
5. Language Barrier: The official language is Arabic, but French is widely used in business and tourism. Few locals speak English, so a downloaded offline translator or a pocket French phrasebook will significantly facilitate communication.
6. Photography and Etiquette: You may photograph local residents only with their explicit permission (men should not photograph women). Photographing military personnel, police, government buildings, and strategic objects is strictly prohibited—this can lead to serious legal problems.
7. Strict Prohibitions: Do not attempt to bring alcohol or pork products into the country—this is strictly prohibited by the laws of the Islamic Republic. Consuming alcohol in public places is also unacceptable.
8. Local Tradition: Do not miss the opportunity to try authentic Mauritanian tea. It is not just a drink, but an important social ritual: the tea is served very sweet, with thick foam ("mousse"), and traditionally three small glasses are drunk in succession, each symbolizing different stages of life.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city without unnecessary worries. Respect for local customs and reasonable caution will make your stay on the Atlantic coast pleasant and memorable.