Last updated: 24 Oct 2025

Mayotte

About

Mayotte is a French island in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique. It was formerly part of France’s Comoros islands territory.

One of Mayotte's greatest charms is its coral reef bordering one of the largest enclosed lagoons in the world. The double barrier phenomenon is a curiosity of the Mayotte lagoon.

Sheltered from the ocean's expanse, the lagoon is a haven of peace for the great variety of flora and fauna. It is a real natural aquarium in which colourful fish live side by side with large sea mammals. The underwater life is a sight to behold.

Mayotte also offers one of nature's most beautiful experiences; the humpback whales teaching the rudiments of life to their new-born calves.

Several species of dolphin can be found inside and outside the lagoon. Some of them will allow you to observe their aquatic ballet, and other groups will share their music with you. Mayotte is also an excellent site for observing the sea turtles. Swimming with them or watching them laying their eggs are among the more moving moments in the discovery of the lagoon island.
Capital:  Mamoudzou (DZA)
Currency:  Euro (EUR)
Language:  Mahorian and French
Dialling code from SA:  + 262
Time Zones: UTC/GMT +3 hours (1 hour ahead of South Africa)
Best Time to Go:  June – October (Dry Season)
Best For: Pristine Beaches, Wildlife
Drinking Water: Mains water in hotels and towns is safe to drink, but bottled water is available and may be preferable for visitors. Outside of the main towns, water may be contaminated.
Health: It is advisable to carry basic medical supplies. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended and it should include emergency air evacuation coverage.
Customs: Respect to religious customs should also be shown during the month of Ramadan. Normal social courtesies should be observed.  This is a predominately Muslim country, but is fairly tolerant

Issuing Authorities

Refer to France Country Guide

 

Public Holidays 2025: Jan 1, 27; Mar 1, 31; Apr 21, 27; May 1, 8, 29; Jun 7-9; Jul 14; Aug 15; Sep 5; Nov 1, 11

Public Holidays 2026: Jan 1, 16; Mar 20; Apr 6, 27; May 1, 8, 14, 25, 27; Jul 14; Aug 15, 26; Nov 1, 11; Dec 25

Visa Requirements

Visas are required by SA passport holders.

 

  • Mayotte is a non-European territory of France (DROM), and therefore falls outside the Schengen area. A Schengen visa is only applicable if it has the label "Valid for Mayotte". 
  • A special visa for Mayotte must be applied for, through the French Embassy / relevant visa application centre. 

Visa Applications are made through Capago (Refer to France Country Guide). 

VISA REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Passport with at least 3 months validity beyond departure date
  • Passport photo
  • Return air ticket / travel itinerary
  • Accommodation reservation / travel itinerary
  • Proof of socio-professional status 
  • Latest 3 months personal bank/credit card statements
  • Travel health insurance certificate

Travel Health

Compulsory:  Yellow Fever (Dependent on Country of Origin/Stopover)
Recommended Travel Vaccines:  Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio
  Malaria Risk