Extremism in Mauritania

The US Department of State warns of the risks of traveling to Mauritania, particularly the eastern regions, due to activities by groups considered to be terrorist groups.
Kidnapping and other violent acts have occurred in the border regions of eastern Mauritania (bordering Mali) and in the north (bordering Algeria). The Mauritanian government has designated most of this area as a restricted security zone, and entry into these regions requires permission from Mauritanian authorities.