Mayotte
Travel tips for Mayotte: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cards widely accepted. Cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, supermarkets, and larger restaurants in Mamoudzou. However, cash remains essential for taxis, local markets, and any travel outside the capital.
Try the food
- Mataba: Cassava leaves are finely pounded and simmered in rich coconut milk, often served alongside fried fish or rice.
- Mabawa: These popular street-food chicken wings are marinated in local spices and grilled over an open charcoal flame.
- Pilao: A fragrant, heavily spiced rice dish cooked in a single pot with chunks of beef or chicken, reflecting Indian Ocean trade influences.
Say it in French
- Hello: Bonjour
- Thank you: Merci
- Please: S'il vous plaît
- Excuse me: Excusez-moi
- How much is this?: Combien ça coûte ?
- The bill please: L'addition s'il vous plaît
- Yes / No: Oui / Non
- Goodbye: Au revoir
Essentials
- Plugs
- Type C / Type E
- Voltage
- 230V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- Tap water
- Avoid — buy bottled
- Emergency
- 112 (general), 17 (police), 15 (ambulance), 18 (fire)
- SIM tip
- Pick up a local prepaid SIM card from Orange or SFR shops in Mamoudzou, or purchase an eSIM online before your trip for instant connectivity.
Etiquette
While tipping is not strictly expected, dressing modestly when away from the beach is highly appreciated out of respect for the predominantly Muslim local culture.