Zouérat - Discovering Mauritania

Travelling to Zouérat

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Zouérat, a pretty good destination in Mauritania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Zouérat and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Zouérat, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mauritania, here's everything to know about Zouérat for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Zouérat

Zouérat is a city located in the northwestern part of the African country of Mauritania. The city is situated near the border with Western Sahara and is known for its rich deposits of iron ore, which is a major source of income for the Mauritanian economy. Zouérat is home to one of the largest iron mines in the world and is a hub for the mining industry in Mauritania. The city has a population of around 45,000 and is a center for transportation and trade in the region. The climate in Zouérat is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months.

What to visit in Zouérat

Zouérat is a city located in northern Mauritania known for its mining economy. While it may not have as many tourist sites as other cities in the country, there are still a few attractions worth checking out: 1. Zouérat Iron Mines: These mines are the main source of iron in Mauritania and are a big part of the local economy. Visitors can arrange tours of the mines to see the operations up close.
2. Rock Art in the Sahara: Near Zouérat you can find some fascinating examples of rock art from prehistoric times. These carvings and paintings depict animals and humans and offer insight into the lives of the people who lived in the area thousands of years ago.
3. Bir Moghrein: This desert town is located about 400 kilometers from Zouérat and is home to a beautiful oasis filled with palm trees and fresh water. It's often used as a rest stop for travelers on their way to other parts of the Sahara.
4. Chinguetti: While this historic town is also a bit of a drive from Zouérat, it's worth a visit if you have time. Chinguetti is one of the oldest cities in Mauritania and is known for its mosques and libraries. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 5. Ksar Abbar: This village is located about 60 km from Zouérat, and is home to an old fortress built from mud and straw. It's a great example of traditional Mauritanian architecture. While Zouérat may not be as popular for tourists as some other cities in Mauritania, its mix of mine tours, desert landscapes, and historic sites make it a unique place to visit.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mauritania, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Zouérat.

When to go on holiday to Zouérat

The best time to visit Zouérat in Mauritania is from November to March when the weather is dry and temperatures are cooler. During this time, the days are warm and sunny, and the nights are pleasantly cool. April and May can also be a good time to visit Zouérat, as the weather is still moderate and there are fewer crowds. However, the weather starts getting hot from June to October, and this is the rainy season, so it is not the best time to visit Zouérat because it can get quite humid and uncomfortable.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Zouérat

Zouérat is a city located in the north-western region of Mauritania, approximately 700 km from the capital city, Nouakchott. There are two main ways to get to Zouérat: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Zouérat is the Zouérat Airport (OUZ), which is located about 6 km from the city center. However, there are only a few flights per week from Nouakchott operated by Mauritania Airlines and there are few scheduled intercontinental flights.
2. By road: You can also get to Zouérat by road from the capital city, Nouakchott. The journey takes around 10-12 hours and it is recommended to hire a driver or take a shared taxi, known as "bush taxi" or "bush bus". The road is generally paved, but there can be some rough patches and it is advisable to travel during the daylight hours. It is important to note that travel to Zouérat can be challenging due to the remote location and limited infrastructure. It is recommended to plan well in advance and to seek local advice before traveling.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Zouérat, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Zouérat

Zouérat, located in the north of Mauritania, is known for its traditional and unique cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Zouérat and their descriptions: 1. Thieboudienne - This is a popular seafood dish in Zouérat. It consists of rice cooked in fish stock and served with fish or seafood, along with vegetables such as carrots, cassava, and eggplant.
2. Maru we bissap - This is a refreshing drink made from hibiscus flower (bissap) and ginger. It’s usually served cold and is a great way to quench your thirst in Zouérat’s hot weather.
3. Couscous - Couscous is a staple food in Mauritania, and Zouérat is no exception. It’s usually served with vegetables, meat, and hot sauce.
4. Agrofou - This is a popular breakfast dish in Zouérat. It’s made from millet flour and water and is usually served with milk and sugar.
5. Mboum - This is a traditional Mauritanian dish made from millet and cooked with meat, vegetables, and butter. It’s a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for cold days.
6. Bouillie - This is a delicious dessert made from milk, sugar, and cornstarch. It’s creamy and sweet and is a perfect way to end a meal in Zouérat. 7. Chebakia - Chebakia is a popular sweet treat in Zouérat. It’s made from a dough of flour, sesame seeds, butter, honey, and spices. It’s shaped into a flower and then fried until golden brown. Chebakia is usually served during Ramadan.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mauritania here.

Is Zouérat an expensive destination for tourists?

Zouérat is not a popular tourist destination and therefore, there is limited accommodation options and tourist infrastructure available. However, the cost of living in Mauritania, including Zouérat, is generally lower than in developed countries. The price of accommodation in Zouérat can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Basic hotels and guesthouses can cost around 20-30 USD per night, while more luxurious accommodation options can cost up to 100 USD per night.
Transportation costs in Zouérat are relatively low, with taxi rides costing around 1-2 USD and public transportation costing even less.
Food and drinks can also be purchased at a reasonable cost in Zouérat, with local meals costing around 2-3 USD and imported meals being more expensive.
In conclusion, while Zouérat is not a cheap destination, it is not necessarily an expensive one either. The cost of your trip to Zouérat will depend on your personal preferences and the type of activities, accommodation, and food you choose.

Where to find accomodation in Zouérat

Zouérat is a small city located in the north of Mauritania and is primarily known for its iron ore mining industry. Therefore, the options for accommodations are limited. However, the city has a few hotels and guesthouses catering to visitors. The best areas to find accommodation in Zouérat are around the main road, the Avenue Abdel Nasser, and near the airport. Staying in these areas will allow visitors easy access to the city's amenities and attractions. It is recommended to book your stay in advance, as availability may be limited due to the small size of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Zouérat here:
Booking.com

Is Zouérat a safe destination for tourists?

Zouérat in Mauritania is not typically a popular destination for tourists due to its remote location and limited amenities for tourists. Additionally, the area is known to be a hub for mining activity, which can pose safety and security risks for visitors.
It is recommended that travelers exercise a high degree of caution and stay informed of any potential safety concerns. It is important to consult with government travel advisories and seek advice from local authorities and tour operators before planning a trip to Zouérat.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mauritania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Zouérat.

What type of travelers will enjoy Zouérat the most?

Zouérat is known as a mining town located in the desert of Mauritania and its main attraction is the iron mine. Therefore, travelers interested in mining and geology would enjoy visiting Zouérat the most. This destination is more suitable for individual or group travelers who are seeking to explore the local mining culture and see a unique landscape.
As for couples or families, Zouérat may not be the best option as it does not offer many activities or attractions beyond the mine. Young people looking for fun and entertainment may also find Zouérat unsuitable, as the town is quite remote and lacks nightlife.

How to get around Zouérat

In Zouérat, most locals and visitors use taxis or private cars to move around the city. However, if you prefer, you can also rent a car or a four-wheel drive vehicle to explore the surrounding desert regions.

What to see around Zouérat

There are a number of interesting destinations that can be visited in a day trip from Zouérat. Here are a few ideas: 1. Ouadane- This ancient city is located about 200 km from Zouérat. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city was founded in the 11th century and is known for its well-preserved architecture.
2. Guelb er Richat- This geological formation is also known as the "Eye of the Sahara" due to its circular shape. It's a popular spot for tourists and is considered one of the most mysterious places in Mauritania.
3. Tergit- This small coastal village is located about 90 km from Zouérat. It's known for its beautiful beach and clear waters.
4. Ben Amera- This large rock formation is located about 200 km from Zouérat. It's one of the largest monoliths in the world and a popular destination for rock climbers.
5. Kiffa- This small town is located about 300 km from Zouérat. It's known for its lively markets and traditional architecture.
For every travel information about Mauritania you can click here.

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