Lac Karihani
A freshwater lake in the centre of Grande-Terre, a protected wetland with birds.
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Lac Karihani sits in the middle of Grande-Terre, one of the few natural freshwater lakes on Mayotte, protected as a nature reserve with reed and marsh around it and dry forest on the slopes above. Herons, ducks, crakes and the endemic Mayotte drongo use it, and it is the island's best inland birding. Water levels drop noticeably through the dry season. It is one of only two natural lakes on Mayotte, the other being the crater lake on Petite-Terre.
What you actually see
- The freshwater lake - a rare natural body of fresh water on the island.
- The reed and marsh - the wetland fringe around the water.
- The waterbirds - herons, ducks and crakes on the lake.
- The dry forest - the woodland on the slopes above.
When to go
May to October is the dry season but water levels drop through it. The wet season from November fills the lake. Early morning is best for birds.
Honest expectations
The lake shrinks considerably by the end of the dry season. There are no hides or facilities. The track in is rough after rain.
Nearby
Tsingoni is north, and Coconi is south.
What to pack for Lac Karihani
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
