Mauritania travel advice

There is a high threat from terrorism in Mauritania. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.Tavellers are advised against all travel to the eastern and northern provinces of Mauritania - Tiris Zemmour, Adrar, Tagant, and Hodh el Chargui - due to the continuing high threat from terrorism throughout the country. This includes all areas bordering Mali, Western Sahara and Southern Algeria.

Travellers are also advised against all travel to the western provinces of Dakhlet-Nouadhibou and Inchiri, after the kidnapping of three Spanish aid workers in November 2009.

A British national was kidnapped with a group of travellers in the Mali/Niger border region in January 2009 was later executed.

There is a high risk of kidnap in Mauritania and surrounding countries by al Qaida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-M). Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-M) operates directly or through criminal gangs who carry out kidnappings on their behalf or pass on their kidnap victims for monetary gain.

On 24 December 2007, a family of French tourists were attacked by armed men in the Aleg region of southern Mauritania. Four were killed and one was seriously injured.

Developments in the region may trigger public unrest, especially after Friday prayers. Travellers should avoid large gatherings of people and demonstrations, which can turn hostile. Be particularly alert in public places.

Travel in Mauritania can be difficult. Outside the main urban areas, there are currently only four paved roads. Conditions are otherwise poor for overland travel. Domestic flights operate between the main towns.

Travellers should carry a copy of their passport at all times for identification purposes.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel