Mayotte

Mayotte consists of two main volcanic islands, Grande-Terre and Petite-Terre, surrounded by one of the largest coral lagoons in the Indian Ocean.

The territory chose to remain under French administration in 1975 while the other Comoros islands gained independence, leading to its departmental status in 2011.

French and Shimaore languages intermingle in daily life, reflecting the fusion of European administration systems with traditional East African and Arabic influences.

The department maintains direct connections with mainland France through regular flights from Dzaoudzi-Pamandzi International Airport and regional maritime trade routes.

Mayotte holds the distinction of being the sole French department with a Muslim majority population and traditional Islamic legal practices integrated into its governance.

Location: France

Location: South Indian Ocean Defense and Security Zone

Inception: 1974

Capital city: Mamoudzou

Part of: Indian Ocean

Shares border with: Comoros, Madagascar

Website: http://mayotte.pref.gouv.fr

GPS coordinates: -12.82305,45.15208

Latest update: June 5, 2025 12:02