Mayotte is a paradise for divers, who flock here to see the spectacular corals in the world’s largest enclosed lagoon.

On its hiking trails, you’ll encounter protected native species, like the lemur, the drongo, or even the amazing Mayotte sunbird.

Visits you cannot miss in Mayotte

Mount Choungui

The ascent of Mount Choungui is one of the essentials of Mayotte during the dry season. It dominates the south of the island with its perfect and steep cone that reaches 594 meters. It offers a panoramic view of the entire south of the island, and its basaltic column is visible from Petite Terre.

Islet of Saziley

For this nautical escapade south of Mayotte, you will leave by boat from Moutsamoudou. Don’t forget to take masks, fins, snorkel, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water because you won’t find anything on this little corner of paradise!

Coconut Botanical Garden

Strolling around the botanical garden of Coconi during the rainy season (between November and the end of April) is a small privilege. In addition to the many flowers and beautiful alignments of palm and coconut trees, you can also visit the nursery.

The beach of N'Gouja

Located at the extreme southwest of the island in the lagoon, this beach is the most beautiful and best-known in Mayotte. Swim with turtles, relax on the clear sand under the baobabs, and observe bats and lemurs—these are the pleasures of this little paradise on the island.

Lake Karihani

Lake Karihani, or "Dziani Karihani" in Shimaoré, is the only freshwater natural lake in Mayotte. Often covered with water lilies, it serves as a refuge for many birds, egrets, herons, or hens. The tour of the lake, near the village of Tsingoni, is a quiet and exotic walk.

The village of Dzaoudzi

Dzaoudzi, which has 13,000 inhabitants, houses most of the colonial-era buildings, including the hotel "The Rock," the old post office from 1845, the former boarding house that houses the Heritage House, and the former governor's palace called "Eiffel Palace," named after its designer.

The Guerlain plantation and its fields

At 800 meters from the village of Combani, the Guerlain plantation aligns its rows of ylang-ylang and its alley of coconut trees. The house of the famous perfumer, planted in the middle of a neat garden, offers beautiful remains that are worth visiting.

The 210 steps of Acoua

This uneven staircase gives access to the top of a hill that overlooks Acoua Bay, offering a magnificent view of the Northern Islands. In the distance, the Choazil Islands and the Chissioua Mtsamboro seem to float on the calm waters of the lagoon.

The small town of Mamoudzou

Mamoudzou, which has only 6,200 inhabitants, lies on the edge of two coves separated by Mahabo Point. It is home to most of the island's businesses, services, the General Council's headquarters, and many administrations, notably in Place Mariage, in the city center.

The peninsula of Bouéni

Located south of Mayotte, the Bouéni Peninsula stretches for 4 kilometers to the north, facing the town of Sada and partly near the Great Bay of Bouéni. Fishing villages along the coast and trails allow you to explore the peninsula, from Majiméouni to Mzouazia.

Essential activities in Mayotte

Turtle nesting on Moya Beach

Mayotte is one of the places in the Indian Ocean where it is common to see turtles laying eggs. Moya Beach is their favorite site. Almost every night from March to June, with peak activity in May, turtles come to lay their eggs. Be cautious not to disturb them.

Observe humpback whales in the lagoon

From Mamoudzou, you can watch humpback whales and their calves from July to October. They come to perform courtship displays, give birth, breastfeed, and educate their young in the turquoise lagoon waters.

Swim with dolphins and terns

Dolphins and terns are observed all year round in Mayotte. For dolphins, the most famous spot is M'Tsamboro Island near the Great Barrier Reef. At Saziley Point, the "white islet" serves as the main refuge for terns.

Dive into the reserve of the Passe en S

Dear Lykkers. Known as Longogori, the "Passe en S" is a famous dive site protected since 1990. With 13 diving spots, it is home to turtles and a rich marine life.

Explore the crater lake of Dziani Dzaha

This emerald-green crater lake, located north of Petite-Terre, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Discover Choizil Islands

These islets, with turquoise water and vibrant marine life, are perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures.

Cruise the mangroves by canoe

The Mayotte mangroves are teeming with unique wildlife, such as the periophthalmus fish, violin crab, and various mollusks.

Learn the art of Bandrélé salt

The “mama shingos” will guide you through the traditional salt-making process, resulting in a unique and natural product.

Meet the makis

These friendly lemurs are easy to approach but avoid feeding them to preserve their natural habits.

What to eat

Matsidza rice

Kakamoukou fish curry

Fish mataba with manioc and coconut milk

Kebabs and mabawas

Chicken Pilao

Tomato rougail

Kangué stew

Poutou chillis

What to bring back

Spices

Vanilla essence

Ylang Ylang essence

Sculpted baobab fruit

Stamps

A Salouva, the traditional costume worn by women in Mayotte

Bandrélé salt