Mayotte is known for its tremendous beauty and plantations of rare spices, which actually gave the island its name. The captivating smell of cinnamon, rose-apple and vanilla together with the scenic peaks of volcanic caldera and emerald lagoons create and unforgettable charming atmosphere, which enchants every single visitor.

Geography and Climate

The island is of volcanic origin and was created about 8 million years ago. The total area of 376 square kilometers is composed of two main parts Petite-Terre and Grande-Terre and about twenty islets scattered in one of the most beautiful lagoons in the whole world.

There is a Lake Dziani in the crater, which has appeared here naturally due to the volcanic activity. The average temperatures move around 25°C, which is very pleasant.

History

Maore sultanate was established on the island in 1500. Three years later the Portuguese explorers discovered the island, but didn’t start to colonize it. In the 19th century the island was conquered by the sultanate of Mwali and then by Ndzuwani sultanate. Mayotte was conveyed to France together with the other Comoros in 1843. In 2003 Mayotte became an overseas community of France but remained departmental community of Mayotte.

Culture

The Mayotte’s culture is a mixture of Comorian, Malagasy, French and Creole cultural traits. The most of the people in Mayotte (Mahorais) are Muslims, but some Christian traditions are also accepted in the culture of Mayotte. Common form of music is the taarab music of Zanzibar.