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Nouakchott Deepwater Port
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Nouakchott Deepwater Port, often referred to as the "Port de l'Amitié" (Port of Friendship), is the most significant maritime gateway for Mauritania. Located about 10 kilometers south of the capital city, it was constructed in 1986 with international cooperation to overcome the limitations of the previous lighterage wharf. The port handles over 90% of the country's imports, including essential goods like grain, sugar, and industrial equipment. Its infrastructure is built to accommodate large cargo ships and tankers that serve the local market and landlocked neighbors. In recent years, the port underwent significant expansion projects to increase its container capacity and modernize its logistics facilities, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the national economy. Its strategic position on the Atlantic coast makes it a vital hub for regional trade and resource distribution.
- Location: Mauritania
- Nearby: Nouakchott Central Market (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 24 | 26 | 27 | 29 | 27 | 24 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 2 | 2 | 15 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 16 | 45 | 46 | 19 | 2 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Nouakchott Deepwater Port is critical infrastructure for imports, allowing large cargo vessels to dock. It supplies the capital and the entire country with consumer goods, construction materials, and fuel.
Visiting
The port is typically not open to the public but is well visible from the southern coastal road. Visitors can watch the container cranes and large ships from the public beach.
Where to view it
The beach south of the port provides a good view of the basin and entrance. From the tip of the headland north of the port, there is an elevated perspective of the container terminals.
Local products
The port primarily handles imported consumer goods, building materials, and food. In Nouakchott's markets, such as Marché Capitale, travelers can find these imported items as well as local textiles and handicrafts.
Active season
Port operations run year-round, most intensely during construction and harvest seasons when import demand rises. Ship arrivals are fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slight variations based on global trade routes.
Nearby
A visit to the deepwater port can be combined with a city tour of Nouakchott, including the National Museum and the Great Mosque. The nearby fishing port of Nouakchott has an interesting contrast with its boats and fish markets.
Geography
Facts
- Year opened: 2020
- Water depth: 16 meters (52 ft)
- Container terminal capacity: 300,000 TEUs per year
- Construction cost: $600 million
- Distance from Nouakchott: 30 km (19 mi)
- Number of berths: 4
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Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the role of the deepwater port?
It serves international freight and container transport.
Is the port publicly accessible?
No, it is a purely industrial and commercial zone.
Is the port used for tourism?
No, there are no tourist features.
How important is it for the country?
It is an economic backbone for imports.
How close is it to the city center?
It is located just a few kilometers from Nouakchott.
Nouakchott Deepwater Port: where is it located?
Nouakchott Deepwater Port is located in Mauritania.
Nouakchott Deepwater Port: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Dec.
Nouakchott Deepwater Port: why is it worth visiting?
Nouakchott Deepwater Port, often referred to as the "Port de l'Amitié" (Port of Friendship), is the most significant maritime gateway for Mauritania.
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The modern square in Nouakchott shows the younger city history.
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The Medina in Nouakchott reflects the urban change of the last decades.
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The market square in Nouakchott is a center of urban life.
