Discover the Unique Charm and Culture of Mayotte
Located in the Comoros group of islands, between Madagascar and Mozambique, Mayotte is set apart by its decision in the 1970s to remain a French protectorate instead of becoming part of the independent Union of the Comoros. In 2011 the island officially became an Overseas Department of France.
Although it is officially part of France, Mayotte has little in common with its parent country. French, the official language, is spoken by only about 35 percent of the population, with local dialects such as Mahorian and Malagasy more commonly used. The population is mostly Muslim, though with some interesting cultural beliefs and practices unique to the region.
The standard of living is also not quite level with France’s, but the infrastructure is more than sufficient for travellers, who are mainly drawn to Mayotte for scuba diving and hiking the undulating volcanic landscape.
Mayotte is made up of two islands, Grande-Terre and Petite-Terre, with sparkling white-sand beaches and excellent diving among the colourful coral reefs. Sea turtles lay eggs on the southern beaches, while lemurs make their home in the interior. The best views of the islands are to be had from the summit of Mount Choungui, a popular hiking spot.
The islands have no large cities. However, the biggest town Mamoudzou on Grand-Terre is a busy settlement with banks, restaurants, hotels, bars, and a bustling market. Mayotte is a stunning setting for a relaxing holiday on the Indian Ocean. But it’s considerably more expensive than other islands in the archipelago, with prices on a par with destinations in Europe.
Key Facts
- Language:
- French is the official language of Mayotte, but the most commonly spoken language is Shimaore.
- Passport/Visa:
- Currency:
Mayotte is politically part of France and an Outermost Region of the European Union, and uses the euro (EUR) as its official currency. Banking facilities are comparatively limited but the banking system is modern and efficient, as it is integrated with France’s.
- Electricity:
- The electrical current in Mayotte is 230 volts, 50Hz. Two-prong plugs are used.
Health Notes when travelling to Mayotte
No vaccinations are required for travel to Mayotte but vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if travellers are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs. It is also recommended that travellers see their doctor for advice on malaria medication prior to travel. Chikungunya and dengue fever (also mosquito-borne diseases) are present in Mayotte so travellers should take precautions against mosquito bites. Medical facilities are available and the presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) entitles travellers to medical care. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised.
Customs in Mayotte
Mayotte’s strong European flavour derives from it being an overseas department of France, its large expat community, and its appeal as a holiday destination for the French. However, beyond the expats and holidaymakers the population of Mayotte is largely Muslim, which ensures that the island is culturally distinct from France. Outside of the main resort areas, travellers (especially women) should be respectful of Islamic customs.
Duty Free in Mayotte
Travellers entering Mayotte from Mauritius can bring in the following items duty-free: 200 cigarettes or cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 400g of tobacco. Those arriving from with the EU who are over the age of 17 can bring in 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars or 1kg of tobacco. They can also enter with 10 litres of spirits, 90 litres of wine or 110 litres of beer. Travellers from outside the EU who are older than 17 can bring in 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. They can enter with 1 litre of spirits, 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer as well.
Communication in Mayotte
The international access code for Mayotte is +262. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States). Travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones; some hotels offer WiFi.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of USA are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of Canada are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
Passports must be valid on arrival. British nationals and passport holders are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of Australia are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of Ireland do not require a visa.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of New Zealand are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
Nationals of South Africa require a normal passport and visa. A visa is not required by holders of a valid multiple-entry Schengen C visa issued by a French consular authority. The visa must have a validity period of between 6 months and 5 years.
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Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
