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Mauritania is a typical country in the desert. It consists of wide Sahara-plains, dunes and rocky plateaus with deep ravines and isolated summits. In the south the Tagant-plateau is 600 m high. Here also live most of its inhabitants; in a few towns, in small villages and oases. The northern shoreline of the Senegal River is always green, the whole year around. In the west the Sahara gives seamlessly way to the Atlantic Ocean.
Whoever is traveling on Mauritania’s roads and courses, must be aware of sand drifts and other road users, who don’t pay attention to any rules: Camels, donkey and goats. It is best to abandon any plans of riding at night.
Since the 7th century the country is influenced by the Islam. As a guest one should heed the religious laws and customs. For women this means: No wearing of provocative short shorts, bellybutton- and shoulder-free shirts.
Mauritania has to offer many culinary tastes: Mechoui (a whole roasted lamb), dates, spiced fish with vegetables, dried meat and Couscous are especially tasty. Popular drinks are Zrig (camel milk) and sweet peppermint tea. At the hotels in the capital Nouakchott one can eat Moroccan, Lebanese, Chinese and French of course. But even here the traditional dishes prevail. The Islam, the religion of country, forbids the consumption of alcohol. Therefore it is only offered at a few hotel bars.
Some geography:
The country is about 1 million qkm large and is inhabited by 2,5 million people. The population is mostly divided into three groups: 20 % Mauren, 40 % Haratin (black Mauritanian origin) and 40 % black. The official language of the country is Arabic. Three tribal languages are spoken in addition to that. It will be easy to make oneself understood for anyone speaking French. Mauritania’s religion is the Islam. The national holiday is celebrated on November 28th. The country became independent at that day in 1960. |
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