Things to Do in Nouakchott in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Nouakchott
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Mild rainy season means cleaner air and less sand in the atmosphere - visibility is at its best for desert photography and Atlantic coast views
- Local fishing season peaks in August, bringing fresh catch to markets daily and lower seafood prices at local restaurants (typically 30% less than dry season)
- Cooler evening temperatures around 25°C (77°F) make sunset walks along the Atlantic coastline comfortable without the harsh desert winds
- Tourist numbers are at annual low, meaning authentic interactions with locals and no crowds at key sites like the Grand Mosque or National Museum
Considerations
- Unpaved roads outside the city center become muddy and sometimes impassable after rain - plan extra time for transportation
- High humidity makes the heat feel more intense during midday hours 11am-3pm, limiting comfortable outdoor exploration time
- Some desert excursion operators reduce services during rainy periods, potentially limiting day trip options to traditional Berber camps
Best Activities in August
Atlantic Coastline Exploration
August's cooler evenings and cleaner air create perfect conditions for exploring Nouakchott's 15 km (9.3 miles) of Atlantic coastline. The humidity keeps sand settled, offering clear views of traditional fishing boats and sunset over the ocean. Local fishermen return with daily catches around 5-6pm, providing authentic cultural interactions.
Traditional Market Tours
August brings peak fishing and agriculture seasons, making local markets like Marché Capitale vibrant with fresh produce and seafood. The slight increase in rainfall means more variety in local vegetables. Morning market visits (7-10am) are ideal before humidity peaks.
National Museum and Cultural Sites
Indoor cultural attractions are perfect for August's midday heat and occasional rain showers. The National Museum's air conditioning and afternoon hours (2-6pm) align perfectly with avoiding peak heat. August exhibitions often feature contemporary Mauritanian art coinciding with cultural festivals.
Traditional Craft Workshops
August humidity is actually beneficial for traditional leather working and textile crafts - materials remain pliable. Local artisan quarters are most active during cooler morning hours (8-11am) and late afternoons (4-6pm), avoiding midday heat.
Desert Edge Excursions
Short desert trips to areas 30-50 km (18.6-31 miles) from Nouakchott are ideal in August - occasional rain settles dust and creates dramatic cloud formations for photography. The cooling effect makes camel interactions more comfortable for both animals and visitors.
Traditional Music and Cultural Evenings
August evenings are perfect for outdoor cultural performances - comfortable temperatures and occasional dramatic skies create magical atmospheres. Local musicians often perform traditional griot music and Mauritanian folk songs during this season.
August Events & Festivals
Traditional Fishing Festival Season
Local fishing communities celebrate peak catch season with traditional boat races and seafood festivals along the Atlantic coast. Features authentic griot music performances and traditional Mauritanian seafood preparation demonstrations.