Nouadhibou: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Nouadhibou, formerly named Port-Étienne, is the second largest city in Mauritania and serves as a major commercial center. The city has about 173,000 inhabitants.

Nouadhibou · CC BY-SA 4.0

Map of places

Now in the cityNouadhibou+27°CClear · sunset 06:31 PMupdated 01:55 PM

EntryPick a passportThe answer depends on the passport.

Places on the map2

Exchange rateMRU 40.53per 1 $MRU — the local currencyas of Nov 2, 2026

Safety and health

Safety · official adviceour data as of Nov 3, 2026

UK Foreign Office (FCDO)Avoid parts of the countryPart of the country is off limits entirely.

Full text

New information on risks of travelling on the iron ore train (‘Safety and security’ page).

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice

US State DepartmentLevel 3Think twice before you travel; weigh the reasons below.

terrorism
crime

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Reconsider travel to Mauritania due to terrorism, crime, and limited health infrastructure . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. U.S. government employee travel restrictions The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to American citizens in Mauritania due to safety risks. U.S.

Source: US Department of State Travel Advisory

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice · US Department of State Travel Advisory

Nouadhibou: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Places on the map2

Getting there and staying

Visa and practicalities

Safety and health

Getting here