Travel support for members leaving, working, or staying abroad.

Mauritania - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

There was no change to the advisory level. The "health” risk indicator was added.  Advisory summary was updated. Reconsider travel to Mauritania due to terrorism, crime, and limited health infrastructure. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to areas marked off-limits by the Mauritanian military. These areas are unsafe due to security risks and terrorist activities. All areas north of the Tropic of Cancer All areas within 60 miles of the Mali and Algeria border Advisory Summary U.S. government employee travel restrictions The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to American citizens in Mauritania due to safety risks. U.S. government employees working in Mauritania are not allowed to travel outside Nouakchott at night. They cannot walk alone outside of specific areas and times. U.S. government employees working in Mauritania need special authorization to travel outside Nouakchott. American citizens in Mauritania are advised to take similar precautions. Crime Violent crimes occur frequently outside the Tevragh Zeina neighborhoods in Nouakchott. This includes mugging, armed robbery, and assault. Local police lack the resources to respond quickly and effectively to serious crimes. Transportation options and communication infrastructure are limited outside Nouakchott. Crimes may happen with little or no warning, targeting tourist places. Crimes often happen at night and include kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery. Stay aware of your surroundings in: Urban areas and crowded markets. Roadblocks, including by armed groups. They are present throughout the country.  Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mauritania. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists may attack without warning: Tourist spots where foreigners gather, anywhere in the country Schools Hotels Restaurants Places of worship and religious sites International diplomatic missions Local security forces and civilians Health Health facilities are available in major cities. However, routine and emergency care may be limited or unavailable.  Healthcare in rural areas in Mauritania is very limited. Medical care may not meet U.S. standards of care. Hospitals and doctors require payment up front prior to service or admission. Payments can be made in cash or mobile payments apps Bankily, Masrvi, and Sadad using a local Mauritanian bank. Medication and medical supplies may be unavailable in many healthcare facilities. Locally available medications may be unsafe. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information. Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to Areas Designated off-limits by the Mauritanian Military The government of Mauritania designates certain areas off-limits to foreigners and most Mauritanians. These “No Movement Zones” are very dangerous. They are near Mali, where armed groups are fighting an active insurgency. This violence may spill over the border into Mauritania. The government of Mauritania has little presence in these areas. Police cannot respond to most incidents. Cell phone coverage and paved roads are nonexistent in these areas. U.S. officials are unable to travel to these places. The boundaries of these areas often change, so stay informed about restricted entry. Do not travel to these areas for any reason. Terrorists and criminal organizations may carry out attacks in the rural area of Mauritania. If you decide to travel to Mauritania: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program STEP to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for Mauritania. Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas. Review our information on Crime Abroad and Victims of Crime. Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad. Share your itinerary with a family member or friend. Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you will confirm you are safe e.g., text, calls, how often, and who you will contact first to share the information. Carry a copy of your passport and visa if applicable. Leave originals in your hotel safe. Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for Mauritania.  Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.