Health Information for Travelers to
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of USA are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of Canada are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
Passports must be valid on arrival. British nationals and passport holders are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of Australia are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of Ireland do not require a visa.
Passports must be valid on arrival. Nationals of New Zealand are visa-exempt for a maximum stay of 90 days.
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.
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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.
Location: Dzaoudzi The airport is located two miles (4km) from Dzaoudzi, on the island of Pamandzi.
Time: Local time is GMT +3
Getting to the city: There is no public transport to and from the airport, though taxis and rental cars are available, and some hotels offer their guests transfers.
Car rental: Rental cars are available.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport.
Facilities: Airport facilities include duty-free shops, food vendors, and restaurants.
Parking: Parking is available.
2020 | 2021 | |
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Easter Monday | Sat. April 13 | Fri. April 5 |
Abolition Day | Sat. April 27 | Sat. April 27 |
Labour Day | Wed. May 1 | Wed. May 1 |
Victory Day | Wed. May 8 | Wed. May 8 |
Mi'raj | Sat. April 13 | Wed. April 3 |
Ascension Day | Tue. May 21 | Mon. May 13 |
Whit Monday | Sat. June 1 | Fri. May 24 |
National Day | Sun. July 14 | Sun. July 14 |
Id al Fitr | Fri. May 24 | Mon. May 13 |
Assumption Day | Thu. August 15 | Thu. August 15 |
Id al Kabir | Wed. July 31 | Sat. July 20 |
All Saints Day | Fri. November 1 | Fri. November 1 |
Armistice Day | Mon. November 11 | Mon. November 11 |
Christmas Day | Wed. December 25 | Wed. December 25 |