Hostels in NOUADHIBOU, MAURITANIA

The Interesting African City of Nouadhibou in Mauritania

Nouadhibou city is one of the largest cities in Mauritania, Africa. It is located on a great peninsula called Cap Blanc, while the city itself is divided into 4 main areas like the city centre, Numerowatt in the north, the Cansado towards the South, Port Mineralier in the far southern side. This Mauritanian city is dependent on fishing and processing of iron ore for economic stability. The company SNIM is hugely responsible for giving thousands of locals job related opportunities.

Accommodation Options
Nouadhibou is a typical African tourist city with numerous hotels, with both plush and moderate accommodation options as per the traveller’s financial condition. One can even find several budget hotels and guesthouses that provide good bed and breakfast facilities for the middle class tourists. However, it is advisable for tourists to stay in lodges that provide night security and lockable rooms.

History
In the pre-independence era, Nouadhibou was known as Port Etienne. After gaining independence in the year 1960, it is popular as Nouadhibou literally meaning ‘Place of the Jackal’, due to the presence of large number of jackals that visited the city in search of water. This fascinating African city has many ship cemeteries, as there are more than 400 wreckages around its 3 main harbors. 

Popular Places
Tourists visiting this African township are surprised to find numerous places of attraction such as the National Park at the southernmost tip, which is home to lovely monk seals. Similarly, there is a quaint little place called La Guera on the Southern side with historic relics and old Spanish buildings. Some visitors are also attracted by the down town markets in Keran, with small shops that sell various fascinating things. Tourists can also explore the second hand market popularly called chep-chep offering items at cheap prizes. 

Getting Around
Foreigners to Nouadhibou will need a guide while travelling to attractive locations in and around the city.  The city can be explored by foot or by renting inexpensive taxis easily available at all places. Mercedes taxis may take 5 to 6 passengers with pre-determined prices. Many travellers love to ride in local buses. For example, there are 5 bus lines (such as El-Bouragh and Global) that offer daily runs to commuters with reasonable ticket rates.

Places of Entertainment
Tourists as well as local visitors can have a gala time in this wondrous city. Avid bird watchers would love the marshy estuary near the bay to watch the pelicans and other sea birds. People can also engage in water sporting actions such as fishing, kite boarding, swimming, etc.

Currency
The main official currency in Mauritania is known as Ouguiya (MRO). 1 ouguiya is again divided into 5 khoums. The value of 1 US dollar is equal to 275 Mauritania Ouguiya’s. For tourist’s guidance, there is a money exchange office in Keran, where visitors can exchange their foreign currencies for Mauritania Ouguiya. For more news and details about Mauritania currency, one can refer to the internet sites.

Nouadhibou group accommodation | Budget hotels & cheap hostels