Vasière des Badamiers
A tidal mudflat on Petite-Terre where migrating waders gather in numbers.
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The Vasière des Badamiers is a tidal mudflat on Petite-Terre behind the causeway, and at low water it exposes a large area of mud that fills with waders on the migration route between Eurasia and Africa: plovers, sandpipers, whimbrel, greenshank and flamingos among them. It is the best birding site in Mayotte and sits within a short drive of the airport. The flat was created when a causeway was built across the bay, cutting off the water behind it.
What you actually see
- The mudflat - the large area exposed at low tide.
- The migrating waders - the flyway traffic feeding on the mud.
- The flamingos - the birds that appear on the flat at times.
- The accessibility - a major site minutes from the airport.
When to go
October to April is the peak for migrating waders. Low tide is when the birds are on the flat. The wet season brings cyclone risk.
Honest expectations
Viewing is from the roadside with no hides. Birds are distant and a telescope helps. The area has had problems with rubbish and encroachment.
Nearby
Dzaoudzi is nearby, and Dziani Dzaha is northeast.
What to pack for Vasière des Badamiers
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.