From its historical richness to its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural blend, Mayotte promises
an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you seek adventure in its volcanic terrain, relaxation
on its pristine beaches, or immersion in its vibrant local culture, Mayotte invites you
to explore its hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Beach Resorts:
Mayotte does not have large beach resorts, but there
are several smaller guesthouses and eco-lodges
near popular beaches like N'Gouja.
Spa Resorts:
There are a few spa facilities in upscale hotels
in Mamoudzou, the capital.
Travel Adventure Locations
Mountain Locations:
Mount Choungui offers hiking opportunities.
Seaside Locations:
Dzaoudzi and its surrounding areas are ideal
for water sports like snorkeling and diving.
Cultural Travel Locations:
Explore the villages of Tsingoni and Handrema
for authentic cultural experiences.
Ethnicity and Languages:
Mayotte’s population is predominantly Comorian, with French
as the official language and Shimaore widely spoken.
Average Weekly Budget for Accommodation:
Hostel: €150 - €300 per week
Hotel: €600 - €800 per week
(Depends on season, location and category)
Average Daily Budget for Food:
Street Food: €10 - €15
Restaurant: €30 - $50
(Depends on season, location and category)
Best Season to Visit:
The best time to visit Mayotte is during the dry season from May
to October, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable
for exploring the island’s outdoor attractions.
Brief Travel Information about Mayotte
Drinks
Jus de Baobab: A refreshing drink made from the fruit of the
baobab tree, known for its tangy, slightly sweet flavor. It’s rich in
vitamin C and has a unique, slightly gritty texture.
Dzakou Pemba: A traditional herbal tea made from locally grown
plants and herbs, often enjoyed for its soothing and medicinal
properties. It’s a staple in many Mayotte households.
Bantou: A local palm wine made from the sap of palm trees.
Bantou has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and is often enjoyed in
social settings or during celebrations.
Jus de Tamarin: A tart and tangy drink made from tamarind pulp,
sweetened with sugar and sometimes spiced with ginger or vanilla.
It’s a popular beverage for cooling down in the island's warm
climate.
Komba: A fermented drink made from sugar cane, komba is
mildly alcoholic and has a sweet, slightly effervescent quality. It’s
often homemade and enjoyed during gatherings.
Jus de Goyave: Guava juice is a common refreshment in
Mayotte, appreciated for its sweet, fragrant taste and rich pink color.
It’s often enjoyed fresh and chilled.
Jus de Mangue: Mangoes are abundant in Mayotte, and their
juice is a tropical delight. It’s thick, sweet, and full of flavor, often
enjoyed on its own or mixed with other fruits.
Rhum Arrangé: A local specialty, this infused rum is made by
soaking fruits, spices, and herbs in white rum for several weeks.
Common ingredients include vanilla, cinnamon, and tropical fruits
like pineapple and lychee.
Jus de Corossol: Made from soursop (corossol), this juice is
creamy and sweet, with a slightly tangy undertone. It’s often
enjoyed chilled and is known for its refreshing properties.
Thé à la Cannelle: Cinnamon tea is a popular hot beverage in
Mayotte, often sweetened with sugar and enjoyed in the morning or
as a relaxing drink in the evening.
Foods
Mataba: A traditional dish made from cassava leaves cooked in
coconut milk, garlic, and spices. Mataba is often served with rice or
bread and sometimes features fish or meat for added flavor.
Pilaou: This fragrant rice dish is seasoned with saffron, cloves,
cinnamon, and cardamom, often combined with meat (like chicken
or beef), tomatoes, and onions. It’s a dish with roots in the Indian
subcontinent, but adapted to local tastes.
Mkatra Foutra: A type of fried bread made with flour, coconut
milk, and sometimes a touch of sugar. Mkatra foutra is often
enjoyed with spicy chili sauce or served alongside savory dishes.
Rougaille de Poisson: A fish stew cooked in a rich, spiced
tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and ginger. This dish is deeply
aromatic and highlights the island’s love for seafood.
Langouste Grillée: Grilled spiny lobster, often served with a side
of garlic butter or a tangy citrus sauce. This is a favorite among
locals and visitors alike, especially during special occasions.
Carri Coco: A coconut-based curry that can be made with
chicken, beef, or fish. It’s spiced with turmeric, coriander, and
cumin, creating a creamy and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice
or bread.
Boulettes de Manioc: These cassava balls are usually filled with
fish or meat and then deep-fried until crispy. They are popular as a
street food snack or appetizer.
Katles: A Mayotte version of samosas, katles are triangular
pastries filled with spiced meat, fish, or vegetables. They are a
popular street food, often enjoyed with a side of chutney or hot
sauce.
Achards: Pickled vegetables, typically made with cabbage,
carrots, and green beans, are marinated in a spicy, tangy sauce.
Achards are often served as a side dish or condiment.
Paté aux Bananes: A sweet treat made from bananas mashed
with sugar and flour, then deep-fried to golden perfection. This
dessert is simple yet incredibly satisfying, highlighting the island's
abundant banana crop.
Mayotte Cusine and Beverages
Mayotte, a tropical archipelago located in the Indian Ocean
between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique, is a melting
pot of African, French, and Comorian influences. Its rich cultural
heritage is reflected in its unique and flavorful cuisine, which
combines local ingredients with techniques borrowed from its
diverse population. Here’s a glimpse into the most popular foods
and drinks you’ll encounter on this enchanting island.
Dzaoudzi: A Glimpse into Mayotte's Past. Dzaoudzi stands as
a testament to Mayotte's rich history, where the charm of the
island's former capital still lingers in every corner. Its cobblestone
streets, winding through colonial-era buildings, echo with stories of
a bygone era. Wrought-iron balconies draped in vibrant
bougainvillea add a splash of color to the town's historic facades,
creating a scene that beautifully merges French and Swahili
influences. As visitors stroll through Dzaoudzi, they are transported
back in time, experiencing the cultural crossroads that have shaped
this unique island.
Saziley National Park: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity. In the
southern reaches of Mayotte, Saziley National Park unfolds as a
haven for nature lovers. This dense forest sanctuary shelters a rich
tapestry of biodiversity, where endemic species such as the
Mayotte drongo and Comoro green pigeon flit among towering
ebony trees. Orchids bloom delicately under the canopy, while
lemurs leap from branch to branch above, embodying the vibrant
life that thrives in this protected enclave. Saziley is not just a park;
it's a living museum of Mayotte's unique ecological heritage.
Mount Choungui: A Climb to Unrivaled Views. Mount
Choungui calls to adventurers with its rugged terrain and
challenging trails that promise a reward of breathtaking panoramic
views. Ascending through lush, verdant forests alive with the calls
of endemic birds, hikers are greeted with a spectacle that extends
from the island's lush heart to the sparkling Indian Ocean. The
climb, though demanding, offers an intimate connection with
Mayotte's natural beauty, culminating in vistas that capture the
island's dramatic landscapes and the encircling coral reefs.
N'Gouja Beach: A Turtle Haven. N'Gouja Beach offers more
than just a sun-soaked escape; it is a crucial conservation site
where endangered sea turtles find sanctuary. Beneath the moonlit
sky, these gentle giants come ashore to lay their eggs, continuing a
delicate cycle of life that has persisted for generations. Visitors are
invited to witness this awe-inspiring event, as the rhythmic waves of
the Indian Ocean provide a soothing soundtrack to a scene of
natural wonder and fragile beauty.
Chissioua Mtsamboro: An Untouched Island Paradise.
Chissioua Mtsamboro floats in the Indian Ocean like a forgotten
treasure, its uninhabited shores beckoning those in search of
solitude and natural beauty. This island gem is blessed with pristine
beaches of powdery white sand, framed by crystal-clear waters that
teem with vibrant marine life. Intrepid travelers who venture here
are rewarded with the chance to explore untouched shores and
immerse themselves in the warm embrace of azure lagoons, far
from the bustle of the mainland.
Coconi Coconut Grove: A Tropical Oasis. Coconi Coconut
Grove unfolds as a tranquil oasis, where the rustling fronds of
towering coconut palms provide a serene backdrop for leisurely
afternoons. Beneath this sprawling canopy, families gather for
picnics, enveloped by the sweet fragrance of tropical blooms. The
distant melody of waves gently caressing Mayotte's shores adds to
the ambiance, making it an idyllic spot to relax and savor the
island's natural beauty.
Lac Dziani: The Sapphire Jewel of Mayotte. Nestled within the
rugged embrace of a dormant volcano, Lac Dziani sparkles as a
sapphire jewel at the heart of Mayotte. Fed by pristine mountain
streams, its cool, clear waters offer a refreshing escape from the
tropical heat. Surrounded by verdant hills and azure skies, the lake
invites swimmers to immerse themselves in its tranquil depths,
providing a peaceful retreat amidst the island's wild landscapes.
Mtsapere and Tsingoni: Villages of Tradition. The traditional
villages of Mtsapere and Tsingoni are steeped in the rich cultural
tapestry of Mayotte. Here, vibrant markets bustle with activity, and
ancient mosques adorned with intricate carvings stand as
guardians of centuries-old traditions. In these villages, the rhythms
of daily life are interwoven with echoes of the past, offering visitors
a chance to experience the enduring spirit and cultural heritage of
the island.
Badamiers Park: A Baobab Sanctuary. Badamiers Park
emerges as a sanctuary where the ancient baobab trees stand tall,
their gnarled trunks and outstretched branches telling stories of
generations gone by. This park is alive with the vibrant hues of
tropical flora, offering visitors a peaceful retreat where shaded
pathways wind through a landscape that feels both timeless and
alive. The towering baobabs, silent witnesses to the island's history,
provide a sense of continuity in a changing world.
Handrema Village: A Hub of Artistic Heritage. Handrema
Village shines as a bastion of Mayotte's artistic heritage, where
skilled artisans create intricate works that reflect the island's cultural
mosaic. The village's vibrant marketplaces are adorned with
handmade treasures, from woven baskets to carved wooden
sculptures, each piece telling a story of the island's storied past.
Visitors can also immerse themselves in the rhythms of traditional
dance and song, experiencing firsthand the artistic expressions that
have been passed down through generations.
Each of these destinations on Mayotte promises not just
exploration, but an immersion into a tapestry of history, nature, and
culture that is as vibrant and diverse as the island itself represented
in this Mayotte travel guide.
Interesting Places to Visit Mayotte
Mayotte: A French Colony Since 1841. O in the azure waters of
the Indian Ocean, Mayotte officially became a French colony in
1841, marking the beginning of its enduring ties with France. This
union set the stage for Mayotte's development under French
influence, shaping its culture, governance, and societal structure.
The Oldest French Outpost in the Indian Ocean. Renowned as
the oldest French outpost in the expansive tapestry of the Indian
Ocean, Mayotte proudly retains its colonial legacy. Amidst a sea of
evolving histories, it stands as a testament to its enduring
connection with France, blending historical influences with
contemporary life.
A Pivotal Choice in 1974. In a pivotal moment of self-
determination, Mayotte diverged from its neighboring Comoros in
1974. While Comoros embarked on its path to independence,
Mayotte chose to remain under the protective mantle of France, a
decision that continues to shape its political and cultural landscape.
A New Era as a French Overseas Department. Embracing a
new era of integration, Mayotte was elevated to the esteemed
status of a French overseas department in 2011. This change
solidified its intrinsic bond with the French Republic, further
integrating it into the national framework and ensuring continued
support and development.
A Cultural Mosaic. The cultural mosaic of Mayotte intricately
weaves together the vibrant threads of African, Malagasy, and
French influences. This harmonious tapestry of traditions and
customs reflects the island’s rich heritage and diverse population,
creating a unique and colorful cultural landscape.
A Strategic Trading Hub. Endowed with a strategic geographic
position, Mayotte has flourished as a pivotal trading hub for
countless generations. Its shores stand as a testament to the ebb
and flow of global commerce, where traders from various cultures
have mingled and exchanged goods over the centuries.
Ancient Ruins and Historical Depth. Tracing back centuries,
Mayotte's storied landscape reveals ancient ruins dating to the
majestic epochs of the 11th century. These remnants whisper tales
of dynasties long past, offering glimpses into the island’s deep and
fascinating history.
The Mbiwi Dance: Celebrating Heritage. Embodied
in the rhythmic movements of the Mbiwi dance, Mayotte celebrates
its rich and diverse heritage. Each step resonates with echoes of
cultural fusion and ancestral pride, symbolizing the island’s vibrant
cultural identity and the enduring legacy of its people.
An Economy Rooted in Tradition and Growth. Anchored in its
fertile soil and bountiful seas, Mayotte sustains its economy through
the pillars of agriculture, fishing, and a burgeoning tourism sector.
These industries contribute to a vibrant tapestry of livelihoods,
supporting the island’s development and prosperity.
Economic Ties with France and the Euro. Despite its
geographical proximity to the Comoros archipelago, Mayotte's
economic ties are firmly bound to the Euro. This connection
embodies its steadfast integration within the economic framework
of France and the European Union, highlighting the island’s unique
economic and political alignment.
Interesting Historical Facts about Mayotte
Mayotte is a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, and
offers a captivating blend of French and Comorian cultures against
a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes. Located between
Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique, this small island boasts
pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich tapestry of
traditions that make it a hidden gem for travelers seeking
an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Mayotte
