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 · Snorkelling
N'Gouja beach
Swimming over the seagrass beds alongside green turtles: at N'Gouja, the encounter happens a few strokes from the shore.
On this page 3 sections
Where the turtles meet
In the south of Grande-Terre, near Kani-Kéli, N'Gouja beach is famous for its green turtles, which come to graze on the seagrass in shallow water. With just a mask and snorkel, you will often swim a few metres from these peaceful reptiles.
Good practice
- Keep at least three metres away and never cut across the path of a turtle coming up to breathe.
- Touch neither the animals nor the coral; avoid standing on the seagrass.
- Use reef-safe sun protection or, better still, a rash vest.
- Take all your rubbish away with you.
Nearby
N'Gouja lies at the foot of Mount Choungui: combine a morning hike with snorkelling in the afternoon. Further east, the Saziley headland offers coastal paths, wild beaches and nesting sites.
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 · Hiking
Mount Choungui
A volcanic sugarloaf rising above the lagoon: the most iconic climb in Mayotte.
Mayotte · Town & heritage
Mamoudzou and Tsingoni
The liveliest town in Mayotte and, to the west, the oldest mosque still in use on French territory.