With 4 hours at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC), it’s best to stay at or near the airport. Immigration and security can be slow, and the airport is about 30–40 minutes from the city. Use a café in the terminal to rest, change money into ouguiya (MRU), buy a local SIM, and sample Mauritanian mint tea. If you have lounge access, relax there, charge devices, and plan any onward travel. Only leave the airport if you have a pre-arranged driver and your flight buffer is generous.

With around 8 hours, you can make a quick city visit if your visa and entry formalities are in order. Arrange a taxi or private transfer from NKC to central Nouakchott (30–40 minutes each way). Start at the Port de Pêche (fishing port) to see colorful pirogues and the afternoon fish landing (best from mid-afternoon). Then head to the Grande Mosquée de Nouakchott area to see the mosque from outside and walk nearby streets. If time allows, stop at the Marché Capitale or Marché Sixième for a glimpse of local life. Finish with tea or a simple meal at a central café or restaurant, then return to the airport at least 3 hours before departure.

With a full day, you can see several sides of Nouakchott. After arriving and checking into a hotel in the city, visit the Port de Pêche in the late afternoon to watch the bustling fish market and boats. In the morning, explore the Marché Capitale and Marché Sixième for spices, fabrics, and daily life. Visit the Grande Mosquée de Nouakchott and Cathédrale Saint-Joseph (both from outside unless attending services) to see contrasting religious architecture. If you have a car and driver, head toward the coastal dunes or Plage de Nouakchott for a sunset walk. Enjoy Mauritanian dishes like mechoui and thieboudienne at a local restaurant, sip mint tea, and return to NKC with ample time for airport formalities.