Mauritania Geography: Location, Area, Borders & Climate
Mauritania is a country in West Africa, Africa, covering a total area of 1,030,700 km². It has a coastline of 754 km along the West Africa coast. Mauritania shares land borders with 3 countries.
📐 Geographic Statistics
Where is Mauritania Located?
Mauritania is situated in West Africa, within the broader continent of Africa. The country has a coastline of 754 km, providing access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism. This geographic feature has been central to Mauritania's historical development and economic activity. The capital, Nouakchott, serves as the country's administrative and economic centre. Within the West Africa region, Mauritania sits alongside countries including Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal.
Size and Area of Mauritania
Mauritania covers a total area of 1,030,700 km², making it one of the smaller nations in the world. With a population of 4.7M across this territory, the population density works out at 5/km²: one of the more sparsely populated countries, with vast stretches of largely uninhabited land.
Climate of Mauritania
The climate of Mauritania is hot desert, extreme heat most of the year. The most favourable time to visit is November–February, when conditions are most comfortable for travel and outdoor activities. Climate can vary considerably across different parts of the country; coastal areas, highlands and inland plains often experience quite different conditions. Travellers should research the specific region they plan to visit to plan appropriate clothing and activities.
🗺️ Countries Bordering Mauritania
Mauritania shares land borders with 3 countries: Algeria, Mali, Senegal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mauritania's Geography
Where is Mauritania located?
Mauritania is located in West Africa, Africa. The capital city is Nouakchott.
How large is Mauritania?
Mauritania has a total area of 1,030,700 km² with a population density of 5/km².
What countries border Mauritania?
Mauritania shares land borders with 3 countries: Algeria, Mali, Senegal.
Does Mauritania have a coastline?
Yes, Mauritania has a coastline of 754 km.
What is the climate of Mauritania?
The climate of Mauritania is Hot desert, extreme heat most of the year. The best time to visit is November–February.
What timezone is Mauritania in?
Mauritania observes UTC+0 timezone.
What continent is Mauritania in?
Mauritania is in Africa, specifically in the West Africa region.
When did Mauritania become independent?
Mauritania gained independence in 1960.