The Mayotte Lagoon

Mayotte's lagoon, a veritable jewel in the Indian Ocean, is a major asset for the island's economic development and innovation.

An exceptional lagoon surrounded by a double barrier reef

Mayotte is surrounded by a rare double barrier reef, one of less than ten in the world. This unique formation creates a lagoon of over 1,500 km², offering an exceptionally protected marine environment. This coral reef acts as a natural bulwark against the inclemency of the open sea, providing calm waters conducive to a variety of maritime and economic activities.

Marine biodiversity rich and preserved

The lagoon is home to exceptional biodiversity, serving as a refuge and nursery for numerous marine species:

Sea Turtles

Green and hawksbill turtles use the lagoon's grass beds as feeding grounds and the beaches for egg-laying.

Marine mammals

The lagoon is frequented by dolphins, dugongs and, from July to October, humpback whales that calve and raise their young in these protected waters.

Corals and Tropical Fish

Coral reefs are home to a multitude of species, contributing to the lagoon's ecological richness.

A protected area conducive to development of the blue economy

Thanks to its double barrier reef, the lagoon offers a sheltered maritime environment, ideal for the development of activities linked to the blue economy:

Ecotourism

The lagoon's safe conditions encourage water-based activities such as diving, snorkeling and marine mammal-watching excursions, attracting sustainable tourism.

Aquaculture

The calm, protected waters are ideal for farming various marine species, offering opportunities for sustainable, innovative aquaculture.

Mayotte Marine Natural Park: committed management of the Lagoon

Created in 2010, the Parc Naturel Marin de Mayotte covers the entirety of the island's territorial waters, some 70,000 km², making it the largest marine park in France. Its aim is to reconcile protection of the marine environment with the sustainable development of sea-related activities. The park's management plan, drawn up in consultation with local stakeholders, defines the guidelines and actions required to preserve this unique ecosystem while supporting environmentally-friendly economic initiatives. Mayotte Marine Park Management Plan |Parc naturel marin Mayotte

For more information on the Parc Naturel Marin de Mayotte and its activities, please visit their official website.