Mwali · 10 places
Deserted islets, turtle nesting beaches, fruit bat forests and the whales of the marine park: Mohéli, the nature island, and its secret addresses.
The smallest of the islands is also the wildest. Here, people happily stay with local families or in village bungalows, and the visitor's money directly funds the protection of turtles and reefs.
Fomboni, near the main square
The little capital revolves around its well-stocked market: fruit, vegetables, fish, spices and everyday goods. It is also where you will find taxis and good advice for exploring the island.
Tip: Mohéli has few cash machines: withdraw money before leaving Fomboni.
Opposite Nioumachoua, south coast
A handful of uninhabited islets ringed by reefs: picnics, swimming and snorkelling in the heart of the national park. On one of them, ruins recall the former isolation of people with leprosy: Ouénéfou, the lepers' islet.
Tip: Trips are booked in the village, with the boatmen and the park guides.
See the place page
North-west coast
A welcoming village and, not far away, the beach of Kavé Hoani: white sand and great peace, popular for camping.
Tip: Ask the village's permission before pitching your tent.
West of the island
A peaceful region, with beaches suitable for camping, far from any bustle.
South-east of the island
Green turtles come in large numbers to nest on the beaches of Itsamia. Founded by the villagers in 1991, the ADSEI association protects the nesting sites and welcomes visitors in its community bungalows, with guides from the village.
Tip: No white torches or flash near the turtles: follow the guides' instructions.
See the place pageSouth-east of the island
An old crater with sulphurous water and no fish, credited with healing virtues; it is a Ramsar site. Read the legend: Lake Boundouni, the healing water.
Tip: People speak softly here: it is a respected place.
See the place page
South of the island
The upland forests of Ouallah are home to Livingstone's fruit bat, one of the largest bats in the world. A half-hour walk also leads to the Ouallah 2 waterfall.
Tip: Go with a guide from the village: they know the trees where the fruit bats roost.
Off the south coast
From mid-August to early October, humpback whales come to give birth and raise their calves in the calm waters of Mohéli.
Tip: Choose a boatman or operator who respects the approach distances.
Djoiezi, near the airport
Above Djoiezi lie the remains of the island's oldest city: ramparts, stone houses, tombs. Read: Mwali-Mdjini, the abandoned city.
Tip: The site has no visitor facilities: ask a local resident to guide you.
Fomboni
Capital of the rulers of Mwali in the 19th century, bombarded by the French navy in 1871, Fomboni keeps the memory of Queen Djoumbé Fatima and of its seven villages.
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