Nouadhibou Travel Guide
Travel to Nouadhibou - Mauritania's Second City
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Formerly known as Port-Étienne, Nouadhibou, is the second largest city in Mauritania and serves as the country's commercial centre. There is little to offer for travellers, other than a place to rest, eat and stock up on supplies before the next leg of a Saharan adventure. Situated on a 40-mile peninsula or headland called Ras Nouadhibou (formerly Cap Blanc), Nouadhibou is less than a mile from the border with Western Sahara.
The major economic activity is fishing. The Atlantic waters in the region are amongst the richest fishing grounds in the world. However, the largest industry is iron ore processing which is transported by train from the interior mining towns of Zouérat and Fdérik. These freight trains can be as much as 3 km long - reputedly the longest in the world. This unique railway also carries passengers and is a real adventure for those looking for a ride.
The city itself is divided into four major areas: the city centre, including the airport, Numerowatt to the north, the main residential area, Consado to the south, a dormitory town for Port Minéralier, in the far south, from which iron ore mined in Zouerat is exported.
Attractions in Nouadhibou
Attractions in Nouadhibou include Cap Blanc, the Table Remarquable, several markets, a ships' graveyard and the chance to spot Mediterranean monk seals.
Relaxing
Head for the fine beach at Cap Blanc and laze in the shadow of a beached ship.
Getting Around
Taxis are widely available though private transport is advisable for exploration.
Nouadhibou Reviews
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Posted on:
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Friday, 14th December 2007
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Not really... at least not in the city itself. I wouldn't recommend a visit to Nouadhibou just to experience the city. But a stop-over en route north to Mauritania or south from Mauritania, is certainly worthwhile - shops, markets, cyber cafes and supplies are plentiful. Attractions not so. The big highlight for me was Cap Blanc, located south of Nouadhibou - a dramatic place with a rusting beached ship, white sands, lighthouse and seabirds. Don't build your hopes up for spotting the monk seals though - you'll have more chance of winning the national lottery than seeing them !!!
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Posted by:
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africanick
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Posted at:
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22:30