Climate in Mauritania

Mauritania has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of 2°C in the coldest regions to highs of 29°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 112mm in drier regions to 361mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 140cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain cool, making Mauritania a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Mauritania vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The North is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 29°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the South, where winter lows drop to 2°C and an annual average of 5°C. This 23°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Mauritania they visit. The biggest regional differences emerge in summer, with up to 29°C variation across the country. For example, Bîr Mogreïn in the Tiris Zemmour averages 27°C annually, while Mbera in the Hodh ech Chargui averages 5°C.

Mauritania sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 112mm to 361mm per year. The Southeast receives the most rainfall, at approximately 361mm annually. The West is the driest, with around 112mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Southeast sees the most snowfall, with up to 140cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.