N'Gouja beach
N'Gouja is the most popular and beautiful beach in Mayotte, located on the southern edge of the island in the Indian Ocean, an overseas department of France. It is the coastline most frequently depicted on postcards and in the island's guidebooks. Visitors flock here to relax against a backdrop of paradise landscapes, engage in exotic eco-tourism, and experience unforgettable diving adventures. This beach is the ideal spot for novice divers eager to connect with the unique underwater world of coral reefs.
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Beach description
N'Gouja Beach, nestled in the northeastern part of Kani Bay near the municipality of Mzouazia and the village of Kani-Kéli, boasts a pristine coastline adorned with golden sands. Towering baobabs and lush tropical vegetation envelop this tranquil haven, creating a serene atmosphere that is seldom disturbed by crowds. For those seeking a private retreat, the N'Gouja coast offers an idyllic escape.
The allure of N'Gouja Beach is further enhanced by several distinctive features that captivate tourists:
- The waters are incredibly calm, thanks to a massive coral reef that lies close to the shore at a shallow depth, providing a natural barrier.
- Encircling this part of the island, the reef forms a picturesque lagoon with conditions that are perfect for snorkeling, especially for beginners.
- The beach is also a hub of eco-tourism, cherished by sea turtles - both green and Bissa species - that venture from the ocean to the shore to forage for algae and to nest.
Adjacent to the shore, the first few meters of the sea are marked by an abundance of algae on the seabed. Beyond this, a coral reef begins, where the waters are exceptionally clean and transparent.
As turtles frequent the algae-rich coastal waters, visitors have the unique opportunity to swim alongside these majestic marine reptiles. In the vicinity of the reefs, schools of angelfish and surgeonfish provide a mesmerizing underwater spectacle.
Optimal Timing for Your Visit
The best time to visit Mayotte for a beach vacation is during the dry season, which spans from May to October. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for enjoying the island's stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- May to October: Dry Season - This is the ideal time for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, as the weather is typically sunny and warm, with minimal rainfall. The temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
- July and August: Peak Season - These months are the busiest, as they coincide with European summer holidays. While the island is more crowded, it's also vibrant with cultural festivities and events.
- September to October: End of Peak Season - As the peak season winds down, visitors can enjoy a quieter experience while still taking advantage of the excellent weather before the rainy season begins.
It's important to note that outside of the dry season, from November to April, Mayotte experiences its rainy season, which can include cyclones and heavier rainfall, potentially impacting beach activities. Therefore, planning your visit during the dry season is highly recommended for the best beach vacation experience.
Video: Beach N'Gouja
Infrastructure
Those seeking maximum comfort mere steps away (only 30 m) from the N'Gouja coast can find solace at Le Jardin Maoré.
- It boasts the unique feature of having rooms with direct views of the shore.
- Guests can choose from 18 cozy bungalows (suitable for 1-6 people) nestled amidst lush tropical gardens.
- Be prepared for an authentic experience as lemurs roam freely, and the soothing sound of the surf lulls you to sleep. A full immersion in the local ecosystem is an absolute certainty.
Adjacent to the hotel is the coast's sole restaurant, complete with a stunning terrace that offers panoramic views of the beach. Another dining option is available just 2 km north of N'Gouja. Note that the beach is devoid of sunbeds and umbrellas.
Visitors should be aware that the beach is not supervised by lifeguards, and caution is advised when swimming. The designated safe swimming area is clearly marked by colorful buoys. Additionally, a dive center has been operational since 1981 on the banks of N'Gouja (near the boar station), offering professional instruction for those eager to explore diving.
Weather in N'Gouja
Best hotels of N'Gouja
All hotels of N'GoujaUseful information
- You can reach the N'Gouja coast only by rented car or hitchhiking – there is no public transport. From the capital, Mamoudzou, you need to go north, following the sign to Chirongui. From the main roads to the hills, you can reach the dead end, where parking is located, and then walk down to the beach through the old dock.
- When moving on the beach, you should be careful not to step on the turtles' nests. Usually, warning signs are visible near them.
- The period from December to March, which is the rainy season here, is not the best time to visit this beach and the archipelago as a whole.