FCO - Travel Advice

We advise against all but essential travel to the regions east of Zouerate, Ouadane, Tichit and Oualata, because of the risk of banditry, and the activities of armed smugglers and extremist groups. Travel in Mauritania can be difficult and conditions are poor for overland travel. You should take all necessary steps to protect your safety, especially outside of main urban areas,and you should have confidence in your individual security arrangements. You should also mainatain a high level of vigilance, particularly in public places and take sensible precautions for your personal and vehicle safety.