Firstly, there's not a lot here but a lot of sand dunes and the odd town amidst the endless desert. The roads are few and far between and desolate doesn't even come close. This is the main attraction for many people however, and there are some incredible sights of ruins being swallowed by dunes, and the National Park on the coast with it's abundant birdlife, in stark contrast to the rest of the country. Where there are people there is awarm welcome and much ceremony over cups of tea to be found.
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Budget Accommodation in Mauritania
The cheapest spots are on the rooftops of lodges aimed at long distance drivers or on the floors of restaurants (they'll expect you to buy a meal). Otherwise a bed for yourself won't set you back that much, about US$6 in a shared dorm. In some hostel type accommodation, a meal is provided.
A Traveller's Budget for Mauritiana
There is no actual bus service to speak of, all the local transport is by bush taxi or pick up truck converted to carry passengers. The price of the transport is usually proportional to the level of comfort you can expect. If you're travelling in a group, it's possible to hire a four wheel drive vehicle and driver for about $50 a day, it'll carry up to six and you can get to places which could be otherwise inaccessible.
To eat cheap there are various low budget restaurants and cafes where you can fill your belly up for as little as a dollar. Some places would have you sit on the floor but the food's still good.
Budget Activities in Mauritiana
Camel trekking in the desert
Check out the birds in the Parc Nationale du Banc D'Arguin on the coast.
Ride the longest train in the world for free in one of the open topped wagons - dusty
Visit the ruins of the city of Ouadâne which are disappearing into the dunes.
Chill out for a while in Chinguetti, Islam's seventh holiest city.
