Group trips to Mayotte

Mayotte is in the East Africa Time (EAT) zone, which is UTC+3. The island does not observe daylight saving time. If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 3pm in Mayotte. For the USA, if it is 12pm Eastern Time, it will be 7pm in Mayotte. Keep this in mind when planning your activities or calls.

In Mayotte, the currency used is the Euro (EUR). If you're exchanging currency, you can do so at banks or currency exchange offices. As of the latest rates, 1 GBP is approximately 1.16 EUR, 1 USD is about 0.94 EUR, and 1 EUR is naturally 1 EUR. It's always a good idea to check the current exchange rates before you travel.

In Mayotte, you can pay using credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses or markets. ATMs are available in urban areas where you can withdraw cash. Keep in mind that rural areas might have limited card payment options, so carrying cash is practical.

In Mayotte, tipping is not a common practice, but it is always appreciated for exceptional service. If you feel that the service you received was excellent, you might consider leaving a small tip. This could be around 5-10% of your bill in restaurants or rounding up the fare for taxis. Keep in mind that tipping is entirely voluntary and not expected, so it is up to your discretion.

In Mayotte, internet access is quite good, but it's always handy to have a backup. We recommend you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan for reliable internet on the go. You can purchase SIM cards from providers like SFR Mayotte or Orange Mayotte at local shops or the airport. Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas, but it might not be as fast or stable as you're used to, so having mobile data is a smart choice for staying connected.

In Mayotte, the official language is French, but you'll also hear Shimaore and Kibushi, which are local languages. Here are some useful French expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Bonjour
• Thank you: Merci
• Please: S'il vous plaît
• Yes: Oui
• No: Non

These phrases can help you navigate daily interactions while you're there.

In Mayotte, they use Type C and Type E plugs. The electrical voltage is 230 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you're coming from a country that uses different plug types, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be plugged in without any issues.

The main religion in Mayotte is Islam. Most of the population is Muslim, and this influences the culture and daily life on the island. Women, especially, are recommended to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees while visiting religious sites or rural areas. Important religious holidays include Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha. During Ramadan, you might notice some businesses with adjusted hours or closures.

Packing for Mayotte is all about staying comfortable in a tropical climate. Here's a quick guide on what to put in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Light, breathable shirts
  • Shorts and light pants
  • Swimwear
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking sandals
  • Flip-flops for the beach
  • Sneakers for hiking
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses
  • A sun hat
  • Portable charger
  • Waterproof phone case
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like antihistamines, pain relievers, and anti-diarrheal pills

With Mayotte's warm climate, you'll be all set to enjoy your trip!

In Mayotte, the weather is tropical. It’s warm and humid throughout the year, with slight variations depending on the season. In May, you can expect:

• Temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C (70°F to 82°F)
• The dry season starting, with less rain compared to earlier months
• Pleasant breezes, making it more comfortable

The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is cooler and drier.