Can you drink tap water in Mauritania?

Tap water in Mauritania is risky to drink. Stick to safer alternatives during your stay.

Mauritania’s dry climate and lack of centralized treatment make access to clean water difficult. Contamination through transport and storage is a persistent issue.

Quick Overview

Tap Water Concern:Our Advice
Tap Water Drinkable?❌ No, use bottled water
Common Risks:Bacteria, parasites, viruses
Brush Teeth?❌ No, use bottled water
Wash Fruits/Vegetables?❌ No, use filtered or bottled water
Use Ice in Drinks?❌ No, avoid unless purified
Safe to Shower?✅ Yes
Filter Bottle Needed?✅ Strongly recommended

Source: CDC Travelers’ Health, WHO water safety reports, and regional public health agencies.

Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle

When in doubt about local water quality, a filter bottle gives you freedom—no hunting for bottled water, no stressing over what’s safe. We don’t sell any gear, but we’ve looked into the most trusted filter bottles used by backpackers, families, and frequent flyers. They offer real protection from bacteria and viruses, help you travel more sustainably, and save you money along the way, which is why we’ve included our recommendations below.

Water Filter Bottle – LifeStraw

Rating

★★★★★
A full view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a smooth, light surface. The black lid features an integrated carry handle, making the bottle easy to clip onto a backpack or hold while traveling. Through the clear body, the internal filtration system is visible, including the long white membrane microfilter designed to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically along the front of the bottle in white. The clean, minimal background keeps the focus on the durable, BPA-free bottle—made from 50% recycled plastic—and reinforces its purpose as a reliable, travel-ready filter bottle for safe, great-tasting water during trips, outdoor activities, and everyday use.
A disassembled LifeStraw Go water bottle laid out on a light-colored surface, showing all the key components of the two-stage filtration system. The translucent gray bottle stands in the background with the LifeStraw logo visible. In front of it, the long white membrane microfilter lies horizontally, displaying its vented design used to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. Next to it are the smaller parts: the activated carbon filter pod that reduces chlorine and odors, the white connector piece that attaches the filters inside the bottle, and the black screw-on lid with its integrated drinking spout. The layout highlights how each part fits together, reinforcing the bottle’s functionality, easy maintenance, and purpose as a durable, BPA-free, travel-ready filtration system made from recycled plastic.
A straight-on view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a light surface. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically in white along the front of the bottle. Through the clear plastic you can see the internal two-stage filtration system, including the long cylindrical microfilter that removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, as well as the lower section where the activated carbon filter fits to improve taste by reducing chlorine and odors. The black lid with the built-in sip spout sits securely on top. The clean, minimal background draws attention to the durable, BPA-free design made from 50% recycled plastic—highlighting the bottle’s purpose as a reliable, eco-friendly filter bottle for travel, everyday hydration, and safe drinking water on the go.
A close-up photo of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle showing the “MAX 0.65L” fill line printed in white on the side. Small droplets of water cling to the surface, suggesting the bottle was just rinsed or recently used. Through the clear plastic, the internal filtration system is visible—the upper cartridge that houses the two-stage filter combining a membrane microfilter for bacteria, parasites, microplastics, sediment, and cloudiness, and an activated carbon filter to reduce chlorine, odors, and aftertaste. The top portion of the lid with the built-in drinking spout appears at the edge of the frame. The image highlights the durable, BPA-free construction made from 50% recycled plastic. It supports product information about the LifeStraw Go series, which provides safer, better-tasting water for travel, outdoor use, and everyday hydration, while also contributing one year of clean drinking water to a child in need with every purchase.
Protection: Filters bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and dirt from unsafe water
Travel-Ready: Safe to use in countries with non-drinkable tap water
Better Taste: Carbon filter reduces chlorine, odors, and chemical flavor
Eco-Friendly: Replaces up to 8,000 single-use plastic bottles
Long-Lasting: Membrane filter lasts up to 1,000 gallons
Safe Materials: BPA-free, durable, and leak-proof design
Budget-Friendly: Cuts daily costs on bottled water
Convenient: Great for airports, hikes, hotels, and remote areas
Check Price on Amazon

Health Risks for Travelers

While locals may drink the tap water with no issues, tourists often face a higher risk of stomach infections and digestive upset due to unfamiliar microbes and variable water quality standards.

Watch out for:

  • Traveler’s diarrhea from bacteria like E. coli
  • Waterborne parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium
  • Viruses such as norovirus or hepatitis A in areas with low hygiene standards
  • Potential chemical contamination from outdated pipes or industrial runoff

Risk factors include:

  • Remote or underdeveloped regions without water purification
  • Urban areas hit by flooding or water service interruptions
  • Hotels or apartments with old plumbing or poorly maintained water tanks

Even if tap water looks clean, it could still carry invisible threats. To avoid gastrointestinal illness while traveling, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Mauritania, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.

More About Tap Water in Mauritania

In Mauritania’s remote villages, access to clean drinking water is extremely limited. Innovative solutions are being used—UNICEF, for example, has combined manual drilling with solar-powered water systems to create water sources in hard-to-reach areas. Hygiene kits are also being distributed to households to help improve water safety and sanitation.

FAQs About Tap Water in Mauritania

Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?

While locals may do it, travelers are better off using safe water for dental hygiene to avoid stomach issues.

Can I use tap water to wash my face?

Yes, you can usually wash your face with tap water without any problems, as long as you don’t swallow it.

Is it safe to use ice in drinks?

Unless you know the ice was made from purified water, it’s best to skip it—most ice is made from tap water.

Can I shower safely with tap water?

The water may not be drinkable, but it’s still safe enough for showers and basic hygiene.

Not sure what’s in the water where you’re staying? A compact shower filter can help protect your skin and hair from harsh water. Just double-check that the showerhead isn’t built into the wall—those can’t be fitted with a filter. According to most travelers, this shower filter is the best pick. Click here to check the best price.

Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?

Unless you’re going to peel or boil it, washing food in unsafe tap water could still carry a risk.

Is bottled water expensive in Mauritania?

While prices vary by region, bottled water is usually a budget-friendly option in Mauritania.

Mauritania is often included in West African overland trips, especially in combination with Mali, or Senegal. It’s helpful to know what to expect regarding water conditions.

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