Mayotte: Tourist & Vacation Guide

Country's codes

International phone code for Mayotte: +262

Standard ISO 3166-1:

3 letters: MYT

2 letters (internet domain): .YT

Digital country code: 175

Standard EAN-13 (country barcode): 300-379 (France)

Olympic country code: FRA

FIFA code: MYT

🇾🇹 Mayotte Travel Guide

🇾🇹 Mayotte is a hidden Indian Ocean gem, known for its vast lagoon, coral reefs, and unique blend of African and French cultures. It offers pristine nature and rich marine life.

🌍 RegionIndian Ocean (Comoros archipelago)

⭐ Famous forLagoon, marine biodiversity, coral reefs

📅 Best time to visitMay – November (dry season)

💰 CurrencyEuro (EUR)

  ✨ Why visit Mayotte?

  Mayotte offers untouched natural beauty with one of the world’s largest enclosed lagoons, making it a paradise for diving, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters.

Top Attractions in Mayotte

🌊 Mayotte Lagoon

One of the largest lagoons in the world, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and spotting marine life like turtles and dolphins.

🐢 N’Gouja Beach

A beautiful beach famous for sea turtles that can be seen swimming close to shore.

🌋 Mount Choungui

A striking volcanic peak offering panoramic views over the island and lagoon.

🌿 Saziley Nature Reserve

A protected area known for its biodiversity, including nesting sea turtles and rare birds.

Best Places to Visit

🏙️ Mamoudzou – The capital and main economic center.
🏖️ Dzaoudzi – Historic town and gateway to Petite-Terre.
🌴 Petite-Terre – Smaller island with beaches and volcanic crater lake.
🌿 Bandrélé – Coastal village with access to nature reserves.
🌊 Kani-Kéli – Known for beaches and marine life.

  💡 Travel Tip: Marine activities are the highlight — bring snorkeling gear to fully enjoy Mayotte’s underwater world.

Things to Do in Mayotte

Snorkel or dive in the lagoon and coral reefs.
Swim with sea turtles at N’Gouja Beach.
Hike Mount Choungui for panoramic views.
Explore mangroves and marine reserves.
Experience local culture blending African and French influences.

🍽️ Local Experience: Mayotte cuisine features seafood, rice, coconut, and spices — try grilled fish, cassava, and tropical fruits.

Travel Tips for Visitors

☀️ Tropical climate — hot and humid year-round.
🚗 Limited public transport; renting a car is recommended.
💳 Euros used, but cash is helpful in smaller areas.
🌊 Respect marine ecosystems when snorkeling or diving.

📌 Useful Country Information

Quick Facts

Total area: 144 sq mi (374 sq km)

Population (2023 est.): ~310,000

Capital: Mamoudzou (~70,000)

Mamoudzou: Capital City Profile

Other major towns: Dzaoudzi, Koungou, Bandrélé

Currency: Euro (EUR)

CurrencyRate

National name: Mayotte (overseas department of France)

Language: French (official), Shimaore, Kibushi

Ethnicity/race: Comorian, African, Malagasy

Religions: Predominantly Muslim

National Holiday: July 14, Bastille Day (France).

Background

🇾🇹 Mayotte is an overseas department of France located in the Indian Ocean, part of the Comoros archipelago.

📜 Unlike neighboring islands, Mayotte chose to remain part of France, becoming a full department in 2011.

🌊 The island is renowned for its vast lagoon and rich marine biodiversity, making it one of the best diving destinations in the region.

🇪🇺 As part of France, Mayotte uses the euro and benefits from European infrastructure while maintaining its unique cultural identity.