Things to Do in The Bustling City of Nouakchott, Mauritania

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There are chances that you would not consider Mauritania as a travel destination. But in case you do, you’ll discover that Mauritania is a nation with a fascinating past, many varied cultures, and many interesting stories.

 

Though most visitors who visit Nouakchott pay little attention to the beauty of the city, the more you give more attention, the more fascinating it gets.

 

So, if you’re intrigued to explore the bustling city of Nouakchott, Mauritania, you may be wondering what interesting things to do there.

 

Luckily, this article will walk you through the best things you can do in Nouakchott to have a fun filled experience.

 

1.   Visit Port de Peche

Everyone visiting Mauritania should visit Port de Peche since people believe it to be among the best attractions of their nation. Walking along the shore will help you to see the Atlantic Ocean and the working fisherman.

 

Whichever time you visit, you will have a glimpse of big groups of fishermen dragging in huge fishing nets as many fishing boats arrive in and depart from port.

 

Local Mauritanians and Senegalese immigrants are offer the fish they caught at several kiosks along the shore. Fish and prawns that are as fresh or delicious are not found other than these kiosks.

 

Still, it’s not only the fish market that is intriguing. You can take part in a fascinating shooting games, which allow you to display your abilities by aiming at small targets with a gun loaded with stones, or you could simply sit around the beach and observe the local families enjoying a free day.

 

2.   Explore Marche Capitale

Marche Capitale is the location to visit if you really wish to experience Nouakchott life to the fullest. Most of the business in Nouakchott is conducted in this sizable market in the middle of the city.

 

On the little wooden stands you may purchase hand-woven bags, traditional clothing, spices, and house items. Unneeded items like broken technology and auto parts are also likely to be present.

 

Wander about the market, enjoy the vibrant scene, observe people conducting business, and peruse the unusual items for sale. Don’t forget, though, take great care with your valuables.

 

3.   Visit The Nouakchott Mosque Sites

Mauritania has a different perspective of Islam and its society since it is among the most orthodox Muslim nations in the globe.

 

If you like to learn more about Islam, then you should visit one of its several mosques and study about its practices and exquisite architecture.

 

Maybe you also like to snap pictures frequently, if so, stop at the Saudi Mosque to admire its elegant construction.

 

From a distance, the two large towers rising toward the heavens are seen. However, It is unfortunate that the mosque only welcomes Muslims. Nevertheless, simply seeing the mosque from the outside can help you see why the locals find it so vital.

 

Seeing the Grand Mosque and the Ibn Abbas Mosque is also worthwhile since their facades are magnificent. Still, the same rule holds: those who are not Muslim are not let in.

 

4.   Visit The National Museum of Music

Pay a visit to the National Museum of Mauritania if Moorish culture interests you. Built with China’s assistance, the two-story building in the midst of Nouakchott boasts two fascinating exhibition spaces.

 

Inside, there are incredible collections of archeological and cultural relics illustrating human life hundreds of years ago. Examine the original arrowheads, shards, and historical fashion choices.

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5.   Taste the Best Western African Cuisine

You might have heard the myth that food in Saharan nations tastes the same, so it often gets dull. However, Mauritania is an exception to this rule.

 

Food from Nouakchott combines West and Saharan African tastes. Arab and African nomads who crossed the continent in groups for hundreds of years helped to define it.

 

Actually, visitors from all throughout Africa still frequent Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania. From Senegal, Morocco, Congo, and Nigeria, this is the ideal location to find cuisine.

 

Fish lunches are also a must-try in Nouakchott since Mauritania’s shore is among the top locations worldwide for catching fish.

 

6.   Order a Freshly made Boubou Attire

The first thing that grabs attention when you visit Nouakchott is the men’s blue attire. These are known as boubou and are essentially archaic attires.

 

People in Mauritania still take great pride in their original attire and do not change it. This specific clothing has a background spanning hundreds of years to a time when many people resided in the desert.

 

Wearing the boubou with a turban helped them to remain cool in the dry surroundings and under the blazing heat. Therefore, everybody in the area still enjoys wearing this attire.

 

Visitors can also put on the robe to understand why the residents are so thrilled about it. Many market vendors can even create you a boubou that fits exactly!

 

7.   Visit The Closed-down Airport

One fascinating but not particularly well-known feature of Nouakchott is the former airport. It’s quite fascinating to go across the vacant airport and view the ancient relics. You may visit the second floor to locate the flight offices or even check out the passport control booths.

 

Those who wish to see something fresh and interesting will find ideal location here. Strangely, although the airport is not public, the doors are constantly open.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Nouakchott known for?

Nouakchott is popularly known for its tourist attractions including Plage de Nouakchott.

 

2. Is Nouakchott good for tourists?

Yes, Nouakchott is a good and safe destination for tourists.

3. Can I drink alcohol in Nouakchott?

Drinking alcohol in Nouakchott is illegal.

 

Conclusion – Things to Do in The Bustling City of Nouakchott, Mauritania

Just waiting to be unearthed is the hidden jewel of African metropolis Nouakchott. From the busy Port de Peche to the vibrant Marche Capitale down to the lovely churches to the fascinating National Museum of Music, this city in West Africa has plenty of entertaining activities.

 

Whether your interests are history, gastronomy, culture, or excitement, Nouakchott has something for everyone. As you go about the city, the markets and streets reveal a special mix of African, Arab, and Moorish influences.

 

These encounters will follow you always. Travel off the usual path and discover what Nouakchott has to offer personally.

 

With its friendly people, stunning architecture, and rich cultural legacy, this bustling city will enthrall and inspire you.