Mohéli Marine Park (Mohéli National Park)
Parc national de Mohéli
The southern lagoon of the Comoros' first protected area, with coral reef snorkeling and diving. Humpback whales visit from July to September, and if you're lucky, you may spot dugongs and dolphins.
Mohéli Marine Park was established in 2001 as the Comoros' first protected area, upgraded to a national park in 2010, and expanded in 2015 to cover about three-quarters of the island's land. Its core is the reef lagoon around Nioumachoua in the south. Coral reefs surround a lagoon 10 to 60 m deep and eight small islets. Seagrass beds and mangroves are home to green turtles, hawksbill turtles, dugongs, and several species of dolphin. From July to October, humpback whales come here to calve, and boats often offer close views of mother and calf pairs. Most visitors base themselves in the village of Nioumachoua or at nearby eco-lodges and charter boats for snorkeling, diving, and whale watching. Entry to the park requires a conservation fee of about 5,000 Comorian francs per day. Boats and guides can be arranged through accommodation or the park office, and it is best to bring your own diving gear.
Opening hours
Open all day (boat trips require advance booking)
Nearby sights
- Mohéli Highland Forest (Mlédjélé)
- Nioumachoua Islets
- Ouallah Beaches
- Fomboni
- Lake Dziani Boudouni
- Itsamia Turtle Beach