How to Find Cheap Hotels in Mauritania

Perched between the Saharan Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, Mauritania is a sparsely populated nation about twice the size of France in the northwest corner of Africa. Its principal economic activities remain agriculture and livestock, although oil has recently been found off the coast, which has occasioned a spurt in economic development. Mauritania is an Islamic nation with a long tradition of peace and hospitality toward visitors of all religious backgrounds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Proof of onward travel
• A computer with Internet access for making reservations
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• A visa obtained in advance
• A valid passport

Book Cheap Accommodations in Mauritania

1. Look to the hotels in either Nouakchott or Atar. Both cities offer a handful of Western-style hotels with a range of rates, and if you're flying to Mauritania you're likely going to land first in either of these two cities.
2. Explore the many 'auberges,' or guesthouses available in Mauritania. These are far more plentiful than hotels and offer the visitor comfortable accommodations at a cheap price with plenty of local flavor. Think of an auberge as your likeliest option for lodging outside the principal cities.
3. Consider one of the campsites throughout Mauritania that offer cheap accommodations to travelers. These are usually quite elaborate, with large, permanent tents, electricity, beds and other amenities built around oases. Rates are quite affordable and travelers generally find these places unique and delightful.

Schedule Your Travel to Mauritania

4. Fly to Mauritania on one of the handful of international carriers that regularly service Mauritanian airports at either Nouakchott or Atar. Look at charter flights as well as a number of carriers that offer service.
5. Consider entering Mauritania by car from neighboring Morocco; ferry service is readily available to Morocco from Spain (Gibraltar), France and Italy. Think of this as an option for being able to get around Mauritania in your own vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• Western-style hotels can only be found in the cities of Nouakchott and Atar, but cheap alternate accommodations can be found in the villages, oases and campsites throughout the country.
• Consider renting a 4x4 for getting around Mauritania once you've arrived.
• Mauritania does not operate an English language booking service Web site nor is there an English language booking phone number.
• Be certain to have been vaccinated for yellow fever. The Mauritian government requires certification and it is advisable to check with a doctor about other inoculations.
• Do not attempt to import alcohol. Bars can be found in the capital city of Nouakchott on the coast and the largest inland city, Atar.