There are reports of thousands of unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western Sahara border. Exploding mines are occasionally reported, and have caused death and injury. Surface travel between Mali and Mauritania is dangerous due to a series of violent incidents related to ethnic conflict, cattle rustling, and the proliferation of weapons. It is not possible to get a Malian visa in Mauritania. Medical facilities in Mauritania are limited.
Medicines are difficult to obtain.
Cash payments must be made directly to doctors and hospitals in most cases. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful. Local currency may not be imported or exported. Credit cards other than American Express are not accepted in Mauritania and American Express cards can only be used at a few hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.