Things to Do in Nouakchott in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Nouakchott

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% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration - December averages 23°C (73°F) with cool evenings that make walking the medina comfortable all day
Minimal rainfall with just 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) - you can plan full days outdoors without weather disruptions
Peak season for desert excursions - daytime temperatures in nearby Sahara regions drop to bearable 25°C (77°F) instead of summer's scorching 45°C (113°F)
Cultural calendar peak - December coincides with traditional fishing season celebrations when Imraguen communities perform authentic ceremonies

Considerations

Harmattan winds bring fine sand particles that reduce visibility to 3-5 km (2-3 miles) some afternoons, requiring eye protection and frequent camera cleaning
Accommodation prices increase 40-60% during European winter holiday period, especially December 20-January 5
Strong Atlantic winds averaging 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) can make coastal activities uncomfortable and cancel fishing boat tours

Best Activities in December

Banc d'Arguin National Park Wildlife Tours

December marks peak bird migration season with over 2 million birds including flamingos, pelicans, and terns. Cool temperatures make the 4-6 hour boat journeys comfortable, and low humidity means excellent photography conditions. Wind patterns are ideal for sailing dhow excursions through the shallow waters.

Booking Tip: Reserve 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed park operators. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 MRU ($40-67) including boat transport and guide. Look for operators with Mauritanian Parks Authority permits. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Traditional Fishing Village Cultural Experiences

December is prime fishing season when Imraguen communities are most active. Witness traditional dolphin-assisted fishing techniques and participate in net-making workshops. Cool morning temperatures 16-20°C (61-68°F) are perfect for walking village paths and learning traditional crafts without heat exhaustion.

Booking Tip: Book through community-based tourism operators 10-14 days ahead. Half-day experiences cost 8,000-12,000 MRU ($21-32). Ensure operators have community agreements and provide fair compensation to villages. Check current options in booking section below.

Sahara Desert Edge Expeditions

December offers the only comfortable window for multi-day desert camping. Daytime temperatures drop to manageable 25°C (77°F) while nights cool to 10°C (50°F) - perfect for traditional Bedouin tent sleeping. Clear skies provide exceptional stargazing with Milky Way visibility.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead for December dates. 2-3 day expeditions range 35,000-55,000 MRU ($93-147) including meals, camping gear, and 4WD transport. Choose operators with emergency satellite communication and experienced Sahara guides. See current desert tours in booking section below.

Atlantic Coast Surfing and Beach Activities

December brings consistent Atlantic swells with 1.5-2.5 m (5-8 ft) waves perfect for intermediate surfing. Water temperature stays warm at 20°C (68°F) while air temperatures are comfortable for beach time. Afternoon winds create ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Booking Tip: Surf lessons and board rental cost 6,000-10,000 MRU ($16-27) per day. Book equipment 1 week ahead during December peak. Look for schools with international safety certifications and modern equipment. Current surf packages available in booking section below.

Traditional Market and Artisan Quarter Tours

December's comfortable temperatures make exploring Nouakchott's sprawling markets enjoyable all day. Peak season brings the finest crafts as artisans prepare for holiday sales. Cool evenings 16°C (61°F) are perfect for rooftop tea ceremonies and traditional music performances in the medina.

Booking Tip: Guided market tours cost 5,000-8,000 MRU ($13-21) for 3-4 hours including tastings and artisan visits. Book morning tours to avoid afternoon Harmattan dust. Choose guides certified by Mauritania Tourism Authority. See current cultural tours in booking section below.

Traditional Music and Poetry Gatherings

December evenings host traditional griots performances in cultural centers across Nouakchott. Cool temperatures 18-22°C (64-72°F) make outdoor courtyard concerts comfortable. This season features special performances celebrating the fishing harvest and preparation for the new year.

Booking Tip: Cultural evening experiences cost 4,000-7,000 MRU ($11-19) including traditional dinner and performance. Book through certified cultural centers 5-7 days ahead. Look for venues offering authentic instruments like tidinit and ardine. Current cultural events listed in booking section below.

December Events & Festivals

Mid December

Festival International de la Culture Hassanie

Annual celebration of Moorish culture featuring traditional music, poetry, and camel racing. International griots compete in traditional storytelling while artisans display finest leather work and jewelry. Evening performances occur in comfortable December temperatures.

Early to Mid December

Traditional Fishing Season Ceremonies

Imraguen communities along the coast perform blessing ceremonies for the peak fishing season. Witness traditional dolphin-calling songs and participate in net consecration rituals. These authentic cultural experiences occur in various coastal villages throughout December.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeved shirts in light colors - protect from UV index 8 and Harmattan sand while staying cool in 30°C (87°F) daytime heat

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential for 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) coastal winds and desert excursions

High-quality sunglasses with side protection - Harmattan winds carry fine sand particles that cause eye irritation

SPF 50+ sunscreen in small tubes - intense UV reflection off sand and water, reapply every 2 hours

Light rain jacket or windbreaker - afternoon winds can be strong and temperatures drop 14°C (25°F) at sunset

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - medina streets are uneven and can be slippery from morning humidity

Cotton or linen clothing only - synthetic fabrics become uncomfortable in 70% humidity levels

Warm layer for evenings - temperatures drop to 16°C (61°F) and desert nights can reach 10°C (50°F)

Dust-proof camera bag or covers - fine sand particles from Harmattan winds can damage electronics

Electrolyte supplements - dry winds and low humidity increase dehydration risk despite moderate temperatures

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations before November 15th to avoid 40-60% price increases during European holiday season - many properties require minimum 3-night stays after December 20th

Schedule outdoor activities before 2pm when Harmattan winds intensify and visibility drops - locals call this 'dust hour' and stay indoors until sunset

December is wedding season for Moorish families - you may witness elaborate traditional ceremonies in hotels and cultural centers, often open to respectful tourists

Fish markets are most active 5-7am when overnight catches arrive - this is when you'll find the freshest seafood and see traditional auction systems in action