Moroccan, Lebanese, Chinese and French restaurants can be found in the capital, especially in hotels. Local cuisine, based on lamb, goat and rice can be sampled throughout the country.

Things to know: Consumption of alcohol is prohibited by the Islamic faith, but alcoholic beverages may be found in hotel bars.

National specialities:
• Mechoui (whole roast lamb).
• Dates.
• Spiced fish and rice with vegetables.
• Fish balls, dried fish, dried meat and couscous.

National drinks:
• Zrig (camel’s milk) is a common drink.
• Sweet Arab tea with mint.

Tipping: 12 to 15% is normal.

Handicrafts such as dyed leather cushions and some engraved silver items, rugs and woodcarvings can be bought on the open market. A fine selection of silver jewellery, daggers, wood and silver chests, carpets and decorated nomad tents can be bought in the crafts centre in Nouakchott.

Unique to the Tagant region are neolithic arrowheads, awls and pottery, while at Boutilimit in the south is a Marabout centre (Institute of High Islamic Studies) where fine carpets of goat and camel hair are made.

Shopping hours: Sat-Thurs 0800-1200 and 1400-1900.