Secure Cheap Flights to Mayotte and Explore the Indian Ocean

From May to October, the dry season offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it the peak time for tourism and outdoor exploration.

November marks the transition with increasing humidity. It is a great time for nature lovers to see the island turning lush and green.

From December to March, the hot and rainy season occurs. While wet, this is when the waterfalls are most impressive and prices drop.

April is a shoulder month where the rain subsides. The lagoon becomes very calm, providing excellent visibility for divers and snorkelers.

Brazilian travelers must note that Mayotte is a French overseas territory and not part of the Schengen Area. While Brazil has visa-exempt status for mainland France, specific rules apply here. You generally need a valid passport and may require a specific short-stay visa for French Overseas Territories unless you hold a long-term residence permit from a Schengen country. Always verify current entry requirements with the French consulate in Brasilia or Sao Paulo before you book flights to Mayotte. Unlike the mainland, local authorities here strictly enforce immigration controls. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and carry proof of accommodation and return flight tickets to avoid issues at the border. Having a printed copy of your travel insurance policy in French or English is also highly recommended for a smoother entry process.

Navigating Mayotte requires a mix of land and sea transport. The main island, Grande-Terre, and the smaller Petite-Terre are connected by a frequent barge service, known locally as the barge. This is the lifeline of the island, transporting pedestrians and vehicles between Dzaoudzi and Mamoudzou. For land travel, car rentals are available at the airport, but roads can be narrow and winding. Taxis-brousse (bush taxis) are the primary public transport, offering an affordable way to travel between villages, though they do not follow a strict schedule. If you are coming from Brazil, you will find the driving style similar but the infrastructure more limited. Renting a scooter is a popular alternative for solo travelers to reach remote beaches. Always plan for extra time when crossing between islands during peak hours, as the barge can get crowded with daily commuters and school children.

The food in Mayotte is a flavorful blend of French, African, and Arab influences. Staple ingredients include cassava, plantains, and fresh seafood. You must try Mataba, which consists of cassava leaves cooked in coconut milk, often served with grilled fish. Tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas are abundant and taste much like those in northern Brazil. While French pastries are common in Mamoudzou, local street food stalls offer samosas and grilled meat skewers called brochettes. Most locals are Muslim, so pork is rarely served, and alcohol is primarily found in larger hotels or supermarkets. When dining, it is polite to greet staff with a friendly 'Bonjour'. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service. For an authentic experience, visit the local markets early in the morning to find the freshest spices and vanilla beans, which are high-quality local exports that make for excellent souvenirs.

Mayotte is generally safe, but travelers should practice standard precautions. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash in crowded market areas of Mamoudzou. Respecting local Islamic traditions is vital; dress modestly when visiting villages, covering shoulders and knees. This is a contrast to the beach culture in Rio, so keep swimwear for the resort or secluded lagoons. To explore like a local, learn a few words in Shimaore, such as 'Kwezi' for hello. For the best photo opportunity, hike to the top of Mount Choungui for a 360-degree view of the lagoon; the light is most dramatic just after sunrise. TICKETS.COM.BR recommends visiting the N'Gouja beach at high tide to swim with giant sea turtles in their natural habitat. Always ask for permission before taking photos of local people, as some may be sensitive to photography for religious or personal reasons.