Mayotte Travel Risk

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Mayotte

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Mayotte, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Scuba diving

Diving schools may have limited resources and do not always observe safety and maintenance standards. Always:

• check a dive operator’s credentials
• check the conditions on your insurance policy – some policies require dive instructors to have certain qualifications
• make sure safety equipment is available on the boat, particularly oxygen
• ask about safety precautions, including the ability to transfer divers to a hyperbaric chamber

If you have not had any previous diving experience, check what to do if something goes wrong, including how to call for help while at sea.

Risk level

Mayotte - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mayotte due to high levels of crimes of opportunity.

Crime

Petty crime

Crimes of opportunity and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occur frequently. Thieves could target foreigners, particularly in Kawéni neighbourhood, in the capital Mamoudzou, and in crowded public areas such as:

• markets
• the airport and public transportation facilities
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• tourist sites and attractions

While you’re in Mayotte:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid deserted streets at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• find out which beaches are the safest
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur. Burglars sometimes target houses or apartments owned or rented by foreigners.

• Choose well-secured accommodation
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Vehicles

Car theft, break-ins and carjacking occur. Rental and luxury vehicles may be a target of choice.

• Familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• Keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• Keep your belongings out of reach
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• Never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Violent crime

Gang-related violence occurs. Criminals often use knives or firearms.

While violent incidents don’t typically target foreigners or tourists, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.