Kaedi - Discovering Mauritania

Travelling to Kaedi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kaedi, a pretty good destination in Mauritania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kaedi and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kaedi, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mauritania, here's everything to know about Kaedi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kaedi

Kaedi is a town located in the southwestern region of Mauritania, on the banks of the Senegal River. It is the largest town in the Gorgol region, and it serves as an important commercial center for nearby villages and towns. The town has a population of around 60,000 people, and it is known for its diverse ethnic and cultural makeup. The climate in Kaedi is hot and arid, with temperatures frequently reaching above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) during the summer months. The town is surrounded by a scenic landscape of sand dunes and rocky hills, and it offers several attractions for visitors, such as the market, the nearby Diawling National Park, and the traditional villages of the Fulani people.

What to visit in Kaedi

Kaedi is a small city located in south-central Mauritania. Though it may not be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, it has some interesting attractions worth visiting. Here are some of Kaedi's tourist attractions along with some information about them: 1. Kaedi Mosque - The Kaedi Mosque is one of the most significant landmarks in the city. It is a beautiful, traditional mosque built with locally sourced materials such as mud and straw. The mosque is well maintained and a great place to experience the local religious culture.
2. Kaedi Market - The Kaedi market is a bustling hub of activity where locals go to buy and sell a variety of products. It is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food. Visitors can find unique handicrafts, clothes, and food items here.
3. Parc National du Diawling - Parc National du Diawling is a natural park located on the border with Senegal. It is a unique ecosystem that contains rare species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, bird-watching, and wildlife photography.
4. Fort Tiekene - Fort Tiekene is a historic fort built by the French colonialists in 1905. It is situated on a hilltop in the city and offers great views of the surrounding area. The fort was used as a military base during the colonial era and played an important role in the region's history.
5. Grande Mosquee de Kaedi - The Great Mosque of Kaedi is a religious landmark built in the 19th century. It is noted for its unique and intricate architecture, featuring a mix of Moorish, Sudanese, and Arab styles. Visitors can admire the mosque's beautiful tile work, palm woodwork, and minarets.
6. Le Fleuve Senegal - The Senegal River is the largest river in West Africa and offers great opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the river and explore the scenic landscape of the region.
Overall, Kaedi offers a range of cultural, historical, and natural experiences that are sure to captivate visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mauritania, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kaedi.

When to go on holiday to Kaedi

The best time to visit Kaedi in Mauritania is between November and February. During this period, the weather is relatively cooler with lower humidity. However, it is important to note that temperatures may still reach up to 32°C during the day, so light clothing is still recommended. It is also worth noting that while this period is the driest season, there may still be occasional rain showers in the region.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kaedi

Kaédi is a small city located in southern Mauritania. Here are some ways to get to Kaédi: 1. By bus: You can take a bus from the capital city, Nouakchott, to Kaédi. The journey usually takes around 8-10 hours. Several bus companies operate this route, such as GTS Transport and Gorgol Express.
2. By car: You can rent a car in Nouakchott and drive to Kaédi. The drive usually takes around 5-6 hours.
3. By taxi: You can also hire a taxi from Nouakchott to Kaédi. This option is more expensive than taking a bus but can be more comfortable.
4. By plane: The nearest airport to Kaédi is in the nearby city of Kaolack, Senegal. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kaédi. However, this option can be more expensive and less convenient than the other options.
Overall, the most common way to get to Kaédi is by bus or car from the capital city of Nouakchott.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kaedi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kaedi

Kaedi is a city located in southwestern Mauritania, known for its traditional cuisine, which is strongly influenced by the country's agricultural and pastoral activities. Here are some typical foods of Kaedi with a short description for each of them: 1. Thieboudienne: This is a popular dish in Kaedi and throughout Mauritania. It is made from fish, vegetables, and rice, and is often flavored with tomato sauce and various spices.
2. Couscous: Couscous is a staple food in many African countries, and Kaedi is no exception. It is made from semolina flour and is often served with vegetables, meat, or fish.
3. Maafe: This is a traditional West African dish that is popular in Kaedi. It is a spicy peanut stew that can be made with beef, chicken or lamb, and is often served with rice.
4. Chappati: Chappati is a type of unleavened bread that is popular in many parts of Africa, including Kaedi. It is made from wheat flour and is often served with meat or vegetable stews.
5. Bissap: Bissap is a traditional African drink that is popular in Kaedi and other parts of Mauritania. It is made from hibiscus flowers and is often served cold with sugar.
6. Akara: Akara is a type of fritter that is made from black-eyed peas and is popular in many parts of West Africa, including Kaedi. It can be served as a snack or as part of a meal.
7. Grilled meat: Kaedi is known for its grilled meat, which is often served with couscous or rice. Beef, lamb, and chicken are popular choices, and the meat is typically marinated in spices and grilled over an open flame.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mauritania here.

Is Kaedi an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Mauritania, Kaedi can be considered slightly more expensive due to its remote location and limited tourism infrastructure. However, the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is generally lower than what you would find in more developed countries. It's always a good idea to research specific prices before you go and to budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Kaedi

Kaedi is a small city in southern Mauritania and there are limited options for accommodation in the city. The best areas to look for accommodation would be the city center and near the main historical sites such as the old colonial French quarter or the market area. Some popular accommodation options in the area include guesthouses and budget hotels, which can typically be found in the city center or close to the main tourist attractions. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, as there are limited options in Kaedi and availability can be scarce during peak tourist season.
You can check hotel prices at Kaedi here:
Booking.com

Is Kaedi a safe destination for tourists?

Kaedi is considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of the cultural norms and customs of the local community. It is also recommended to stay up-to-date with any travel advisories or warnings issued by your home country or the Mauritanian government. It's always best to be prepared and take necessary precautions, such as not displaying expensive jewelry or valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and staying in well-lit and populated areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mauritania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kaedi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kaedi the most?

Kaedi in Mauritania is a great place for nature lovers and people who are interested in off-the-beaten-path destinations. The city offers its visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional culture of the country, and the local markets and architecture are said to be fascinating sights.
However, as Kaedi is a smaller city, with limited tourist infrastructure, it may not be the best destination for families or travelers looking for a lot of activities and entertainment. The city is also quite conservative, so couples and young travelers looking for a party scene may not find what they are looking for here.
Overall, Kaedi in Mauritania is a destination that is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable with a low-key, cultural experience.

How to get around Kaedi

In Kaedi, the most common means of transportation are taxis and mini-buses. Taxis are usually small yellow or green cars that can be flagged down along the road. Mini-buses are larger and can accommodate more people. They usually have set routes and fares, and can be recognized by their distinctive colors and markings. It is also possible to hire a private car with a driver for a day or longer, although this can be more expensive. Bicycle rentals are also available in the city.

What to see around Kaedi

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Kaedi, Mauritania: 1. The Oum el Khayr gardens - a scenic and peaceful garden that features a variety of plants and trees.
2. The Abdalla Noureddine Mosque - a beautiful mosque that has incredible architecture and is regarded as one of the finest examples of Islamic design in West Africa.
3. The ancient city of Walata - an abandoned ghost town that was one of the most important trade centers in West Africa during the medieval period.
4. The Kankossa rock formations - a stunning landscape made up of sandstone towers and inverted pyramids.
5. The Guelb er Richat - a unique geological formation of concentric circles that can be seen from space.
6. The Tagant Plateau - a scenic and rugged region that is known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
All of these places are accessible within a day trip from Kaedi. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Mauritania you can click here.

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