Climate & Weather Guide in Mauritania

Climate zones, seasonal temperatures, rainfall patterns, and best travel times

Mauritania features an arid to hyperarid climate dominated by desert conditions, with 90% of its territory in the Sahara. It has two seasons: a hot season from March to October with temperatures exceeding 40°C in deserts, and a cooler season from November to February averaging 25-30°C. Annual rainfall is very low, ranging from 100 mm in the north to 600 mm in the south, mostly during May to September. The country is highly vulnerable to desertification, with most of its 4.5 million people concentrated in the milder south and urban areas like coastal Nouakchott. Köppen classifications include hot desert (BWh) in the north and hot semi-arid (BSh) in the Sahelian south.

Summer Average

30-45°C

Winter Average

15-30°C

Climate Types

Hot Desert and Hot Semi-Arid

Annual Rainfall

100-600 mm

Sunshine Hours

3,000-3,500 hours annually

Average Humidity

20-50%

Regional Climate Variations

Northern Sahara Desert

Covering about three-quarters of Mauritania, this hyperarid region features vast dunes and rocky plateaus with extreme heat. Summer temperatures routinely surpass 40°C, while winters remain mild at 20-30°C. Rainfall is minimal at 100-250 mm annually, mostly sporadic summer showers, leading to persistent drought and sandstorms. Ideal for those tolerant of isolation and heat, but challenging for agriculture or comfort without air conditioning.

Summer:35-45°C

Winter:20-30°C

Very low rainfall

Intensely hot days with chilly nights, relentless sun, and frequent dust storms create a harsh, unforgiving environment suited to nomadic lifestyles.

Central Sahelian Zone

This transitional steppe and dry savanna area receives slightly more rain, 200-400 mm yearly, supporting sparse acacia woodlands and pastoralism. Hot tropical conditions prevail, with summer highs over 40°C and milder winters around 20-28°C. Short wet season from May-September brings brief relief, but desertification threatens livelihoods. Popular for herders and growing urban centers.

Summer:32-42°C

Winter:18-28°C

Low rainfall

Scorching days tempered by occasional savanna breezes, with dry air and vivid sunsets, offering a step up from pure desert but still demanding heat adaptation.

Southern Sahel and Coastal Strip

The most temperate region along the Senegal River valley and Atlantic coast, with up to 600 mm rainfall supporting savannas and limited farming. Summers hit 35-40°C, winters 15-25°C, influenced by marine trade winds moderating coastal Nouakchott. Wet season aids vegetation, but floods and heatwaves occur. Home to over half the population, best for expats seeking relative comfort.

Summer:30-40°C

Winter:15-25°C

Low rainfall

Warm, breezy coastal vibes with higher humidity near the ocean, greener landscapes in wet months, and milder evenings ideal for outdoor living.

Mauritania's climate spans hyperarid northern deserts to semi-arid southern Sahel, with extreme summer heat up to 45°C and mild winters. Rainfall scarcity poses challenges for water and agriculture, but coastal areas offer more livability. Expats and residents thrive in urban south with AC, embracing the sunny, dry paradise while preparing for dust and heat.

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