Mayotte is a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean characterized by volcanic islands, tropical forests, coral reefs, and a large surrounding lagoon.

Mayotte Coat of Arms

📍 Mayotte is an overseas department and region of France located in the northern Mozambique Channel in the Indian Ocean, between Madagascar and Mozambique. It is part of the Comoros archipelago but is administered as an integral part of France, with no land borders and surrounded entirely by the Indian Ocean.

Mayotte’s geography is defined by a volcanic island landscape surrounded by one of the largest enclosed lagoons in the world, protected by a coral reef. The territory covers about 374 square kilometers (144 square miles) and includes two main islands—Grande-Terre and Petite-Terre—along with smaller islets. The terrain is hilly with lush tropical vegetation, while the coastline features mangroves, beaches, and shallow waters. Its tropical climate and rich marine biodiversity support diverse ecosystems. Mayotte’s location and natural environment have shaped its role in agriculture, fishing, and regional maritime activity, as well as its importance for conservation and tourism.