Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRO) = 5 khoums. Notes are in denominations of MRO1000, 500, 200 and 100. Coins are in denominations of MRO20, 10, 5 and 1, and 1 and 0.2 khoums.

Currency declaration forms are issued on arrival and should be kept. Currencies can be exchanged at the airport or at the main banks in Nouakchott. It is illegal to exchange money on the black market.

Generally not accepted. American Express is accepted in a few hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.

Limited use. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. There is no restriction on the import of foreign currency provided the amount is declared on arrival. The balance of foreign currency not spent but declared on entry may be exported, but the import declaration must be produced.

Sun-Thurs 0800-1600.