Map of Mauritania – Regions, Cities, Borders & Geography
Explore Mauritania with this interactive map and straightforward guide to its 15 administrative regions, major towns, Atlantic coastline and expansive Sahara landscapes. Use the map to locate Nouakchott, the capital, compare distances across the country and identify routes connecting the coast, Sahel and interior.
Mauritania is in northwestern Africa, with the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It borders Senegal, Mali and Algeria, and meets the disputed territory of Western Sahara to the northwest. Its capital is Nouakchott. Mauritania is divided into 15 wilayas (administrative regions), including three covering the capital.
Interactive Map of Mauritania
Zoom in for cities, roads, the Senegal River and coastal landmarks. Zoom out to compare Mauritania's location with nearby countries and Western Sahara.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Where Is Mauritania Located?
Mauritania lies between the Atlantic coast and the western Sahara, connecting North Africa with the Sahel. Senegal lies to the southwest across much of the Senegal River, Mali to the east and southeast, and Algeria to the northeast. The territory of Western Sahara lies to the northwest; its political status is disputed, and map boundary styles can differ.
Most of Mauritania is dry desert or semi-desert. Its population and agricultural activity are more concentrated near towns, the coast and the southern river valley. The official language is Arabic, while several other national languages are spoken across the country.
Mauritania's 15 Administrative Regions
Mauritania has 15 wilayas. The capital is split into Nouakchott Nord, Nouakchott Ouest and Nouakchott Sud, which explains why some older maps show fewer administrative divisions. Each wilaya contains smaller administrative districts known as moughataas.
| Wilaya | General location | Places and features |
|---|---|---|
| Adrar | North-central highlands | Atar, Chinguetti, Ouadane |
| Assaba | South-central interior | Kiffa, semi-arid plains |
| Brakna | Southwest, north of Senegal River | Aleg, Boghé |
| Dakhlet Nouadhibou | Northwest Atlantic coast | Nouadhibou, coastal peninsula |
| Gorgol | Southern river country | Kaédi, Senegal River valley |
| Guidimakha | Far south | Sélibaby, river valleys |
| Hodh Ech Chargui | Far east | Néma, Oualata |
| Hodh El Gharbi | Southeast | Aïoun, Sahel landscapes |
| Inchiri | West-central desert | Akjoujt |
| Nouakchott Nord | Northern capital area | Nouakchott districts |
| Nouakchott Ouest | Western and central capital area | Administrative and coastal urban areas |
| Nouakchott Sud | Southern capital area | Nouakchott districts |
| Tagant | Central plateau | Tidjikja |
| Tiris Zemmour | Far north | Zouérat, iron-mining region |
| Trarza | Southwest coastal and river zone | Rosso, Boutilimit |
Major Cities and Towns on the Map
Nouakchott is the capital and largest urban centre, situated close to the Atlantic coast. Nouadhibou, farther north, is an important port and fishing centre. In the south, Rosso lies near the Senegal River and an important border corridor, while Kaédi serves communities along the river valley.
Inland centres include Kiffa in Assaba, Atar in the Adrar region and Néma in the far east. Zouérat is associated with iron ore mining in the north. Smaller historic settlements such as Chinguetti and Ouadane are best located by zooming into the Adrar area.
Desert, Coastline and Natural Features
The Sahara Desert covers much of Mauritania, with dunes, rocky plateaux and wide expanses of sparsely settled terrain. The Adrar Plateau contains distinctive sandstone landscapes and historic desert settlements. In the north, the Kediet ej Jill area near Zouérat includes some of the country's highest ground.
The Senegal River forms a key part of the southern boundary and supports irrigated agriculture and settlements. Along the Atlantic, the Banc d'Arguin National Park protects extensive coastal and marine habitats and is internationally recognised for birdlife. It is a protected area, so access may be regulated.
Roads, Airports and Getting Around
Major road corridors connect Nouakchott with Nouadhibou on the coast, Rosso in the south and inland destinations including Atar and Kiffa. Long travel distances, desert conditions and variable road surfaces make route planning important. Some tracks shown on maps may be unpaved or unsuitable for ordinary vehicles.
NouakchottâOumtounsy International Airport serves the capital. Other airports and local services may have limited schedules. Before travelling, check current road, border, weather and transport information rather than relying on map labels alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Mauritania?
Nouakchott is the capital, near the Atlantic coast in the southwest.
How many regions does Mauritania have?
Mauritania has 15 wilayas, including three covering different parts of Nouakchott.
Which countries border Mauritania?
Mauritania borders Senegal, Mali and Algeria. It also adjoins Western Sahara, a territory with disputed political status.
Does Mauritania have a coastline?
Yes. Mauritania has an extensive coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, including the ports and coastal areas around Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
Where is the Senegal River?
The Senegal River runs along much of Mauritania's southern boundary with Senegal.
Where is Banc d'Arguin National Park?
It is on Mauritania's Atlantic coast, broadly between Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
Is Mauritania mostly desert?
Yes. The Sahara dominates much of the country, while the south includes more Sahelian landscapes and river valleys.
Can I use this map for driving directions?
Use it to understand general routes and locations. Check current navigation, road conditions and official travel advice before driving.
About This Map
This interactive map is intended for geographic reference. Zoom and pan to find settlements, regional boundaries and physical features. Small roads and sites may only appear at closer zoom levels, and administrative or disputed boundaries may be represented differently by different map providers.
Disclaimer: This map is for general reference only. Locations, boundaries and transport details may change. Verify important information with official sources.