Location Guide

The Mamoudzou market, about ten minutes away, is the best place to understand daily island life. Women in colourful salouvas sell cassava, bananas, spices, coconuts and fish, and some wear the msindzano, a yellow facial mask made from sandalwood that protects the skin from the sun. Early morning is the liveliest time.

About fifteen kilometres south, the Musée des Senteurs at Coconi presents the plants that made Mayotte famous for perfume, especially ylang ylang, whose flowers are still distilled on the island for the global perfume industry. The guided visit includes distillation and tastings of spices.

N'Gouja beach in the south of the island is one of the best places in the world to swim with green sea turtles in shallow water. Turtles feed on seagrass just metres from the shore, and snorkelling gear is enough. Touching or chasing them is forbidden.

The lagoon itself, protected by a double barrier reef, is the main attraction. Boat trips from Mamoudzou and other ports lead to sandbanks, reefs and the passes where dolphins are common. From July to October, humpback whales come to calve inside the lagoon, and licensed operators organise respectful watching trips.

Mont Choungui, a steep volcanic peak in the south, offers a demanding hike with panoramic views over the lagoon. On Petite Terre, the Dziani Lake, a green crater lake, lies within a short walk from the road. Local guides are recommended for hikes.