If you’ve got a layover in Nouakschott, don’t let it go to waste sitting at NKC. The city, in Mauritania, is within easy reach — roughly 90 minutes by Taxi/Shared Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of NKC:
- Can you legally enter Mauritania? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 90-minute journey each way by Taxi/Shared Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MRU. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some MRU in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from NKC to Nouakschott
The most straightforward way into Nouakschott is the Taxi/Shared Taxi, which takes about 90 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 110 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Shared Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Exploring Nouakschott on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Nouakschott:
Start with Marche Capitale (Central Market). Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights. Then, if time allows, make your way to Nouakchott Beach (Plage de Nouakchott). Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside NKC, you can spend time at Oumtounsy Airport VIP Lounge or try Duty-Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Restaurant La Croisière and Le Manara are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Nouakschott.
- At the airport: Oumtounsy Airport Restaurant and Airport Coffee & Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Nouakschott might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$8 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$23 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at NKC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Nouakschott’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NKC should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Mauritania and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, NKC has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Nouakschott with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Nouakschott may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.