The areal after crossing the border is a national park consisting of wide open marshlands, lakes, swamps and grasslands with a variety of birds, camels, warthogs and cattle. A short stretch into the route we got into our first Mauritanian police check, one of many more to follow. We also were stopped by park staff who demanded a 6 EUR fee per person for passing through. Not that we had a choice in the matter as this was the only way we could have taken in any case. Small bit frustrating by principle although fabulous scenery and views of wildlife made more than up for it.
Even after we had left national park terrain the route continued on with deep gravel and sand pits of all sizes. Very challenging and physical as you had no opportunity to get the into the groove of either one of the conditions. Eventually I fell into the sand. While struggling to pick up my bike in the heat, Rory acted all tourist on me and took his time taking snaps :)
By the time we finally hit paved roads again we still had a journey of 150 km left to Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania.
On arrival into the suburbs of the city we got worried at the sight of a large, fully armed police force trying to get a fire on the middle of the road and a demonstrating crowd under control. We were waved through by the police though without any trouble. As we were told later and understood there is a dispute between local port/dock workers and the government on salary rates.
When we got into the centre the usual hunt for food, accommodation and topping up on local currency began. It didn't take long to find the moneychangers though. Rory was surrounded by a crowd of Mauritanians in their traditional clothing in no time and did his usual bartering for good exchange rates. Entertaining to watch as always. We found cheap accommodation where despite the condition of the place we probably had the best nights sleep ever.
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