Mayotte · Marine nature park
The lagoon of Mayotte
More than 1,000 km² of turquoise water ringed by a coral barrier reef: the lagoon of Mayotte is one of the largest enclosed lagoons on the planet.
Mayotte · Town & heritage
Mamoudzou and Tsingoni
The liveliest town in Mayotte and, to the west, the oldest mosque still in use on French territory.
On this page 3 sections
Mamoudzou
The island's main town and economic hub, Mamoudzou stretches along the lagoon. People come for its covered market, its stalls of spices, vanilla and salouva (the traditional wrap worn by Mahoran women), and for its seafront, from which the barge leaves. In the evening, skewers and mabawa (grilled chicken wings) are eaten on the go.
The mosque of Tsingoni
Former capital of the sultans of Mayotte, Tsingoni is home to a mosque whose mihrab bears an inscription dated 1538. Listed as a historic monument, it is considered the oldest mosque still in use in France. Visit with respect, outside prayer times and in covering clothes.
The maki, the island's mascot
All over the island, groups of makis (brown lemurs) can be seen in the trees, especially around villages and beaches. They are protected and must not be fed.
Approximate location.
Gallery
Other places on Mayotte
Mayotte · Volcano
Petite-Terre and Lake Dziani
An emerald lake at the bottom of a crater, a turtle nesting beach and the old rock of Dzaoudzi: Petite-Terre makes for an unforgettable day.
Mayotte · Snorkelling
N'Gouja beach
Swimming over the seagrass beds alongside green turtles: at N'Gouja, the encounter happens a few strokes from the shore.
Mayotte · Hiking
Mount Choungui
A volcanic sugarloaf rising above the lagoon: the most iconic climb in Mayotte.