Mauritania’s ancient desert cities struggle for visitors as border risks deter travel

Security concerns and limited infrastructure keep travel to Mauritania low, with historic cities seeing few international tourists.

• The Global Terrorism Index reported that the impact of terrorism in Mauritania is lower than in most European countries.
• Walata Mayor Sidati Dey said fewer than 30 international tourists visit the ancient city annually due to dangers at the border with Mali.
• The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation decided to restore traditional libraries in Chinguetti inside a medieval palace to preserve ancient manuscripts.