Location : Nouakchott, Mauritania

Area : 1,000 km²

Languages : Hassaniya (a blend of Arabic, Berber, and other African dialects), French

Population : Over one million inhabitants

Introduction

Capital of Mauritania, Nouakchott is a Saharan city backed by the desert and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. Though a modern city, this West African capital proudly ranks among the most beautiful destinations in the country. Traveling to Nouakchott guarantees a stay rich with discovery and the chance to experience an unprecedented adventure between land and sea.

History

Located in southwestern Mauritania, on the Sahara's oceanic edge, Nouakchott emerged from nothing. Originally, it was merely a small control post established to monitor the trade route linking Morocco to Senegal. At that time, the settlement sheltered no more than 500 inhabitants. But in 1958, on the eve of independence, Mauritania—which had until then been administered from the city of Saint-Louis in Senegal (Africa's oldest French colony)—needed its own capital. Thus Nouakchott was thrust into the role of the nation's capital. Since then, it has rapidly evolved into a modern city.

Initially, the city was designed to accommodate only a few thousand residents. Recall that it was created for political purposes (namely to establish political and administrative structures) rather than to house a large population. However, in 1968, the Mauritanian capital was overwhelmed by a wave of migrants fleeing the drought afflicting the country. In 1975, a second wave of migrants descended on the city. Faced with this massive influx of refugees, authorities were forced to divide the city into several districts. Today, Nouakchott has over one million inhabitants, representing between 20 and 30% of Mauritania's population.

Today

Once merely a small town of settled nomads, Nouakchott now asserts itself as a modern city holding its place on the international stage. With over one million inhabitants, this West African capital is undergoing profound transformation, evolving from a modest settlement into a contemporary metropolis. The city centers around Gamal Abdel Nasser Avenue and General de Gaulle Avenue. Like most emerging African cities, Nouakchott is a contrasted city that seems to struggle managing its economic development. Indeed, to the north, residential neighborhoods with luxurious villas and lush gardens present a facet of the city utterly different from the south, with its makeshift shelters.

Beyond this contrast, Nouakchott remains a pleasant city to visit, offering numerous sites and plenty of things to do. For instance, visiting the National Museum allows you to discover the culture and lifestyle of Mauritania's nomads. Witnessing the fishermen's return at the fishing port beach is an experience not to be missed. Other activities await discovery here, such as camel treks in the Sahara Desert, donkey rides on the beach, and more.

Climate and Geography

Situated in southwestern Mauritania and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Nouakchott spans 1,000 km². The climate is generally dry year-round, with weak and highly irregular rainfall during summer. Temperatures range between 28.4°C and 36.4°C for highs and 14.6°C and 25.7°C for lows. However, temperatures drop from December through March. This period is when visiting the city is recommended.

What to See and Do?

• Visit museums and markets.
• Contemplate the beach and a sea of dunes.
• Witness the fishermen's return in the afternoon.