Mauritania - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider Travel to Mauritania due to crime and terrorism. 

Violent crimes, such as mugging, armed robbery, rape, and assault, are common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting places frequented by Westerners.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mauritania as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside Nouakchott. U.S. government employees must travel only during daylight hours and are prohibited from walking alone at any time.

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.

If you decide to travel to the Mauritania:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Avoid demonstrations.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Mauritania.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.