Passing through Kaédi Airport? A layover in Kaedi is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 45 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave KED:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Mauritania. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Kaedi takes about 45 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is MRU. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
The Best Way Into Kaedi from KED
You have two main options for getting from Kaédi Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How to Spend Your Time in Kaedi
Two recommendations for your time in Kaedi:
Start with Kaédi Central Market. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere. Then, if time allows, make your way to Senegal River Banks. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Kaedi.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KED, you can spend time at Terminal Waiting Area or try Aircraft Observation Point. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Kaedi, local travelers recommend Restaurant Sahel. If you have time for a second stop, Café du Fleuve is another popular pick.
Back at KED, Kaédi Airport Snack Counter is the go-to. Local Tea & Refreshments Stand rounds out your in-terminal options.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Kaedi, budget roughly $19 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $4 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kaedi.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at KED can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Kaedi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at KED, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kaedi itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Mauritania that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at KED.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Kaedi genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.