Things to Do in Nouakchott in February

February Weather in Nouakchott

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Prime weather for desert exploration - daytime temperatures peak at 30°C (87°F), perfect for extended outdoor activities without extreme heat stress
Minimal rainfall at 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) means reliable conditions for fishing excursions and coastal activities along the Atlantic
Cool evenings dropping to 16°C (61°F) create ideal conditions for traditional tea ceremonies and outdoor dining in local neighborhoods
February marks the tail end of the migratory bird season at Banc d'Arguin, offering exceptional wildlife viewing before March departures

Considerations

Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust creating hazy conditions and potential respiratory irritation for sensitive travelers
Limited indoor activities during the 10 dust-heavy days - museums and cultural sites may feel repetitive for longer stays
Temperature swings of 14°C (25°F) between day and night require careful layering and can catch unprepared visitors off guard

Best Activities in February

Atlantic Coast Fishing Expeditions

February's calm seas and minimal rainfall create optimal conditions for traditional pirogue fishing trips. Early morning departures at 6am avoid midday heat while catching the most active fishing periods. Local fishermen are less busy than during peak fishing months, making authentic cultural exchanges more accessible.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through waterfront cooperatives. Expect to pay 8,000-12,000 MRU for half-day trips including equipment. Look for experienced captains who speak French and provide safety equipment. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Banc d'Arguin National Park Wildlife Tours

The final weeks of winter migration make February exceptional for spotting flamingos, pelicans, and over 100 other species before they depart in March. Cooler morning temperatures allow for comfortable 4-5 hour excursions without heat exhaustion. Park access roads are in optimal condition after the dry season.

Booking Tip: Reserve 10-14 days ahead as this is peak season for the park. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 MRU including park fees and 4WD transport. Ensure operators have official park permits and provide binoculars. Book through registered guides for the best wildlife spotting locations.

Traditional Market Cultural Immersion

February's moderate morning temperatures make extended walks through Marché Capitale and surrounding souks comfortable before 11am heat peaks. Local produce is at seasonal variety peaks, and artisans are actively preparing for spring festivals, offering authentic craft demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Best experienced independently or with cultural guides found through hotel concierges. Budget 2,000-4,000 MRU for guided market tours including tastings. Early morning slots (7-10am) offer the freshest selections and most comfortable temperatures.

Desert Edge Camel Trekking

February's temperature range allows for longer camel expeditions without extreme heat stress. Morning treks can extend 3-4 hours comfortably, and the clear, dry air provides exceptional visibility of desert landscapes. Evening temperatures perfect for traditional Bedouin-style camping.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through established desert tour operators. Full-day experiences cost 18,000-28,000 MRU including meals and guide. Verify camels are well-maintained and guides carry satellite communication for safety. Half-day options available for beginners.

Traditional Architecture Walking Tours

February's pleasant evening temperatures from 4-7pm create ideal conditions for exploring Nouakchott's traditional quarters and colonial-era buildings. The low-angle winter sun enhances photography of Islamic architectural details, and reduced dust compared to March-May improves visibility.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work well with good maps from tourist information. Professional architectural guides charge 6,000-10,000 MRU for 3-hour tours. Late afternoon timing avoids midday heat while capturing golden hour lighting for photography.

February Events & Festivals

Mid February

Festival of Traditional Music

Annual celebration featuring Moorish traditional music, poetry, and storytelling held in various venues across the capital. Local griots perform classical compositions, and workshops offer visitors chances to learn traditional instruments.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeved shirts in light colors - essential for sun protection during 8-hour UV exposure days while staying cool in 30°C (87°F) heat

Quality dust mask or scarf - harmattan winds carry fine Saharan dust that irritates respiratory systems and gets into cameras

Warm layer for evenings - temperatures drop 14°C (25°F) after sunset, catching many visitors unprepared

Closed-toe shoes with good grip - sandy streets become slippery, and protection from dust and debris is essential

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 combined with desert reflection creates intense exposure even during short outdoor periods

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated in 70% humidity requires constant water intake, and local water temperature varies significantly

Cash in small denominations - credit cards rarely accepted outside major hotels, and exact change speeds market transactions

Headlamp or small flashlight - inconsistent street lighting and early sunsets at 6:30pm make evening navigation challenging

Moisturizer and lip balm - dry harmattan winds cause rapid skin dehydration despite high humidity levels

Plastic bags for electronics - fine dust penetrates most cases and can damage cameras, phones, and other sensitive equipment

Insider Knowledge

Visit fishing cooperatives at 5:30am to watch daily fish auctions - tourists welcome but arrive early as activity ends by 7am when temperatures rise

Local buses run most efficiently 6-9am and 4-6pm when temperatures are moderate - midday services become overcrowded with heat-seeking locals

February is prime time for traditional tea ceremonies in residential areas - accept invitations from locals as this cultural exchange becomes less common during hotter months

Coastal restaurants serve freshest seafood Tuesday-Thursday when fishing fleets return from multi-day trips - avoid Mondays when weekend catches are depleted