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Mauritania

West Africa

Mauritania is a vast, largely desert nation bridging North Africa and sub-Saharan West Africa. It is home to the Richat Structure (Eye of the Sahara), one of Earth's most remarkable geological formations visible from space. The ancient caravan city of Chinguetti was once the seventh holiest city of Islam and a major center of trans-Saharan trade.

Motto: “Honor, Fraternity, Justice”

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Population

4.9M

Capital

Nouakchott

GDP

$10.4B

Languages

Arabic, French

Independence

1960

Currency

Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU)

Area

1,030,700 km²

Calling Code

+222

Official Name

Islamic Republic of Mauritania

Cultural Highlights

  • Chinguetti's ancient libraries containing centuries-old Islamic manuscripts
  • Moorish cultural traditions including elaborate tea ceremonies and poetry
  • The Imraguen fishing community, using traditional methods with dolphins
  • Moorish music featuring the tidinit (lute) and ardin (harp)

Famous Landmarks

Richat Structure (Eye of the Sahara)ChinguettiBanc d'Arguin National ParkOuadane

Travel Tips

  • The Richat Structure near Ouadane is an extraordinary geological sight
  • The ancient ksour (fortified cities) of Chinguetti, Ouadane, Tichitt, and Oualata are UNESCO sites
  • Banc d'Arguin National Park is one of the world's most important bird sanctuaries
  • November to February offers the most comfortable desert temperatures
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