Located on Africa's Atlantic coast, this modern capital grew from a small fishing village in 1959 to become Mauritania's economic hub, where Moors, Soninke and Wolof communities live.
Nouakchott, Mauritania's capital city, has grown from a small fishing village into a metropolis of over 1 million people. You can watch fishermen unload their morning catch at Port de Pêche, bargain for spices at Marché Capitale, or visit the Grand Mosque with its striking white walls and green dome. The city's streets fill with aromas from local food stalls serving grilled lamb mechoui and fresh-caught fish dishes.
Port de Pêche and Fish Market
At Port de Pêche, more than 100 wooden boats arrive each morning between 6 AM and 8 AM with fresh catches. You'll see fishermen steering their colorful pirogues through the waves while market vendors sort fish directly on the beach. The market is most active from sunrise until about 10 AM, when you can watch vendors arrange their fish by type and size, from small sardines to large groupers.
Camel Market
Located 7 kilometers east of the city center, the camel market brings together merchants who buy and sell camels, goats, and sheep. You can walk through the market to see hundreds of camels, particularly during the morning hours from 7 AM to noon. Traders arrive early with their animals, discussing prices and examining the camels' health and condition before making deals.
Local Food Scene
Restaurants across Nouakchott prepare dishes from neighboring countries. At Marché Capitale, located in the city center, vendors sell fresh vegetables, meat, and local spices. The nearby Marché Marocaine specializes in North African ingredients. In the central district, you'll find small restaurants serving Mauritanian specialties like thieboudienne (fish and rice stew with vegetables) and mechoui (slow-roasted lamb with cumin and garlic).
Climate and Weather
Nouakchott experiences hot desert conditions throughout the year. Daytime temperatures from March to November often reach 35°C (95°F), while December to February sees temperatures around 25°C (77°F). The ocean breeze helps cool the city, but sandstorms occur frequently between March and July, reducing visibility and covering surfaces with fine sand.
Getting Around
Yellow shared taxis follow set routes through Nouakchott's main streets, with stops near major markets and the port area. Private taxis are available throughout the city - remember to agree on the fare before starting your journey. The main roads connect the port area to the central markets and administrative district, with most destinations being 3-5 kilometers apart.
