Mamoudzou and Petite-Terre
Prefecture and largest town on the island, Mamoudzou is the economic lung of Mayotte, animated by its markets and the barge that heads to Petite-Terre. On the other side, Dzaoudzi and Pamandzi offer superb views over the lagoon. Sharing a tasty mabawa on a terrace after the crossing dives you at once into warm, blended Mahoran everyday life.
Lake Dziani and Mont Choungui
On Petite-Terre, Lake Dziani Dzaha, a volcanic crater with fluorescent green water, is unique in the world. A one-hour loop around the crater opens spectacular panoramas over the Indian Ocean. On Grande-Terre, Mont Choungui, a 594-metre rocky pyramid, is climbed in barely an hour: a short ascent rewarded by a breathtaking view over the lagoon.
Lagoon and beaches
Vast, the Mayotte lagoon shelters dolphins, turtles and tropical fish. People head out in transparent kayaks, glass-bottomed boats or with mask and snorkel. Moya Beach on Petite-Terre and N’Gouja on Grande-Terre are classic local meeting points. On Lyad, Mayotte members share their favourite coves; it is up to you to find someone to dive in with.
Date ideas
- Mamoudzou
- Dzaoudzi
- Petite-Terre
- Grande-Terre
- Mayotte Lagoon
- Lake Dziani
- Mont Choungui
- Moya Beach